"I am in extreme enjoyment." So begins a letter from John MacGregor, recording another successful end to one of his many marine voyages in words that neatly summarize the spirit of his life and travel works. In his four well-known books, which were first published during the 1860s and appeared in many editions, MacGregor recorded his adventures on the rivers and lakes of England, the Continent, and the Middle East in small craft always dubbed with his own nickname, "Rob Roy." Drawing on all his gifts for athleticism, writing, illustration, design, and (most of all) navigation, he virtually created and tirelessly promoted the European sport of canoeing.

He was a consummately happy, generous man who devoted his life to philanthropy, especially for the benefit of "ragged boys" and many Protestant organizations. All the proceeds from his books and lectures were donated to charitable causes. He is remembered as...