Historic Nantucket, January 1956, Vol. 4 No. 3

Historic Nantucket

ORANGE STREET, WINTER From a lithograph by Ruth Haviland Sutton

JANUARY, 1956

WHALING MUSEUM TWENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY YEAR Published Quarterly by

NANTUCKET HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION NANTUCKET, MASS.

HISTORIC NANTUCKET Published quarterly and devoted to the preservation of Nantucket's antiquity, its famed heritage and its illustrious past as a whaling port.

VOLUME 4

JANUARY 1956

No. 3

Historic Nantucket is published quarterly at Nantucket, Massachusetts, by the Nantucket Historical Association. It is sent free to all members of the Association.

Membership dues are — Annual-Active $2.00 ; Sustaining $10.00. Life—one payment $50.00.

Entered as Second Class Matter, July, 1953, at the Post Office, Nantucket, Massachusetts, under Act of August 24, 1912.

Copyright 1956 Nantucket Historical Association.

Communications pertaining to the Publication should be addressed to the Editor, Historic Nantucket, Nantucket Historical Association, Nantucket, Massachusetts.

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Enclosed is my check to the order of the Association in the amount of $

as my contribution to the special fund being raised to cover

the cost of essential structural and restoration work at the Whaling Mu­ seum.

(Note: Counsel advises such a gift is an allowable deduction for Federal Income Tax purposes.—N. H. A.)

TABLE OF CONTENTS Factual Information

2

Editorial

4

Nantucket Forty-Niners

6

History Making Events

29

Annual Winter Gam

34

Admissions Record

34

Whaling Museum Reconstruction

35

Proud Island Epic

37

Keziah Coffin Fanning's Diary

38

Membership Report

44

In Memoriam

45

Officers

46

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EDITORIAL The Warrant for Nantucket's Annual Town Meeting to be held February 13th will include an Article reading as follows: "To see if the Town will vote to accept the provisions of Chapter 601 of the Acts of 1955 of the General Laws establishing an Historic Dis­ tricts Commission for the Town of Nantucket with all the powers and duties thereof as provided for and defined in the above named Chapter of the General Laws."

The presentation of this Article to the voters is the final step in the plan industriously worked out during 1954 and 1955 by nine local organizations which believe that Nantucket's future lies in the preservation of its past evidenced in its Main Street mansions, old gray shingled houses and historic whaling structures together with its winding lanes and cobblestone streets.

Led by the Nantucket Civic League, the Nantucket Historical Association, The American Legion, Rotary Club of Nantucket, Chamber of Commerce, Siasconset Improvement Association, The Real Estate Dealers, Nantucket Taxpayers Association, and the Firemen's Association initiated and sponsored this Act. Subse­ quently the Summer Courtesy Town Meeting by resolution ex­ pressed its approval and recommended acceptance of the Act. Before the Legislature passed and Governor Herter approved the precedent setting act, the Supreme Judicial Court was requested by an order of the Senate to pass upon its constitutionality. In deciding that the Act could be legally enacted the Court stated in part: "The definition of the purpose of the proposed Act as set forth in Pp. 1 is — 'the preservation and protection of historic buildings, places and districts of historic interest; through the development of an appro­ priate setting for these buildings, places and districts; and through the benefits resulting to the economy of Nantucket in developing and maintaining its vacation-travel industry through the promotion of these historic associations'."

Commenting upon what Nantucket has at stake, the Court said in part: "We may also take judicial notice that Nantucket is one of the very old towns of the Commonwealth; that for perhaps a century it was a famous seat of the whaling industry and accumulated wealth and culture which made itself manifest in some fine examples of early American architecture; and that the sedate and quaint appearance of

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HISTORICAL NANTUCKET the old island town has to a large extent still remained unspoiled and in all probability constitutes a substantial part of the appeal which has enabled it to build up its summer vacation business to take the place of its former means of livelihood."

The danger which Nantucket constantly faces and which threatens its future unless protected by a flexible law such as this proposed Act is recognized in the following words of the Court: "It is not difficult to imagine how the erection of a few wholly incongruous structures might destroy one of the principal assets of the town. . . ."

Briefly the Act provides that it is the function of the Com­ mission to decide upon the appropriateness of the exterior architectural features of buildings hereafter to be erected, altered or restored in the Districts, keeping in mind the purposes of the Act, the general design, materials, etc., involved, especially in relation to similar features of buildings in the Districts so as to prevent developments obviously incongruous to the Districts. To this end, no building shall be erected, reconstructed, altered, re­ stored in the defined Historic Districts in Nantucket and Siasconset until an application has been approved by the Commission as to exterior architectural features subject to public view from a public street, way or place. Further, no building or structure in the Districts shall be razed if, in the opinion of the Commission, it would be detrimental to the public interest. The erection or display of public signs in the Districts also is under the Commission's jurisdiction. Property owners are protected by a right to appeal rulings of the Commission to the Selectmen and to the Superior Court.

It is our opinion that this Act, if adopted, together with the Planning Board By-Law adopted February, 1955, will give the Town of Nantucket two laws which will protect its business — the vacation industry — and will bring the right type of business to the Island. The words of the Justices of the Supreme Judicial Court should carry weight with our members in reaching a de­ cision for they were prudent words, carefully weighed without prejudice and void of any pressure.

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Nantucket Forty-Niners Gold Rush Voyages and a Passenge?-'s Journal of a Voyage around the Horn.

BY HELEN

L.

WINSLOW

The national fever over the discovery of gold at Sutter's Mill in California in January, 1848, did not become fully aroused until the following December when President James Polk made official mention of it in his message to Congress. Within a year more than 600 Nantucketers joined the 40,000 who went to the gold fields by sea or land-sea routes.

The "List of Persons from Nantucket Now In California Or On Their Way Thither..", published by Jethro C. Brock, on January 1, 1850, read like a register of the leading island families. Coffins, Starbucks, Swains, Folgers, Gardners, Mitchells, Bunkers, Husseys, and Macys were among those who joined the stampede. Each man made the arrangements required by his individual means or trade.

Some signed on as officers or seamen to work their passage, and upon arrival they left the ship if previously arranged or deserted if no legal exit seemed open. Others went prepared to work as blacksmiths, carpenters, or mechanics, hoping for a more stable income in rapidly expanding San Francisco in preference to the gamble of the mines. Those who could afford to went as passengers aboard one of the numerous sailing ships leaving eastern ports.

Others booked passage to Panama on such steamers as the CRES­ CENT CITY, the FALCON, or the EMPIRE CITY, journeyed across the Isthmus, and continued in one of the Howland-Aspinwall Pacific Mail steamers, the CALIFORNIA, PANAMA, or OREGON. Enterprising local owners and merchants, hard hit by the damaging fire of 1846 and by their inability to continue successful competition with the New Bedford whaling industry, were cau­ tiously investigating the business possibilities of this new fever.

Some outfitted ships to leave directly from Nantucket; others instructed captains already at sea on whaling ventures to consider the advisability of stopping at San Francisco.

Among the Nantucket ships that left the whaling grounds to take part in the gold rush were:—the Ship MASSACHUSETTS which sailed from Callao, Peru on April 17, 1849, arriving at

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San Francisco on June 8; the Brig QUITO, Captain John C. Brock, from Talcahuano, Chile, May 12, arriving June 2; the Ship NORMAN, Capt. John J. Gardner 1st, from Panama, May 13, ar­ riving July 15.

Meanwhile, men on the island were already signing up for voyages direct to California. Before the year ended 13 ships would leave from Nantucket alone. Nor is it strange that she should play a part in this gold rush by sea. Her whaling industry made ships readily available, and her sons were accustomed by experience and by heritage to seek their fortunes on the other side of the world.

The first Nantucket vessel to leave for California was the Ship AURORA, Capt. Seth M. Swain, which sailed on January 9, 1849. The owners, Charles G. and Henry Coffin, planned to sell the ship in San Francisco, and it was agreed that the men would be free to leave the ship when she reached port. Of her voyage more will be told later.

On March 12 another Coffin ship, the HENRY ASTOR, George F. Joy, master, left port. Her officers and crew had formed a com­ pany with the owners. The tightly constructed constitution of the Astor Mining Company testifies to the experience and business acumen of the whaling-merchant Coffin brothers. No legal loop­ hole existed save, perhaps, the distance of 4,000 miles between the owners and the company's operations. The constitution pro­ vided for the organization of the Astor Mining Company into work parties or gangs under sub-directors headed by a Chief Director of Land and Mining Operations. The interests of the owners were to be protected by the captain who was placed in sole charge of the ship with instructions to direct the men and to act as company treasurer. All members were pledged to work in the interests of the company alone. It was agreed that Sunday would be observed, "but if any collections shall be made on that day, by accident or otherwise, they shall belong to the common treasury." Sickness or disability must be proved upon examination by a trained physician, and a deserter would forfeit all privileges.

Settlement of unforeseen circumstances was left to the discretion of the captain.

Breach of contract appears to have been a major concern to the owners and investors, and this they had reason to fear as later

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HISTORIC NANTUCKET

events were to prove. Reason for this concern is found in a letter written from San Francisco July 21, 1849, prior to the arrival of the HENRY ASTOR, to Charles G. Coffin by an associate who says: "How our Astor business is going to come out remains to be seen.

Scarcely a company has come out but what it has become disor­ ganized and broken up. Men are easily moved from their engage­ ments when they arrive here."

Further reason appears in another letter under the date of Sep­ tember 25th, 1849, reporting the safe arrival of the HENRY ASTOR on the 16th after which the associate comments: "This enterprise of ours is the most risky of all that could possibly be undertaken. Hundreds of companies have dissolved and their property been sacrificed. Various causes have operated to produce the same disastrous results. If Mr. Fisher had' died when he was so sick, the Astor Company would have dissolved within eight and forty hours after their arrival here. No man in Nantucket except Alvin Fisher can keep a company of men together in California and I doubt he can for 2 years. If he does we ought to pay him well for it."

Not all the men whose signatures appear at the end of the constitution were aboard the HENRY ASTOR when she left Nan­ tucket. To what extent this intended iron-clad agreement brought about a change of mind is not known.

On May 31, 1849, the Ship MONTANO, Capt. Edward C. Austin, left Nantucket. On July 1, Captain Francis F. Gardner sailed with a local crew on the Brig JOSEPH BUTLER. Four days later the Ship SARAH PARKER departed with a full complement of Nantucket seamen and passengers. Another shipload left on July 29 aboard the Ship JAPAN, Captain Henry Bigelow, and the Ship FANNY, Uriah Russell, master, went on August 22. The schooner Two BROTHERS, Capt. Edwin Baldwin, which departed a week before must have picked up her crew elsewhere.

Forty-four island men sailed on the Ship MARTHA, Capt. Eben M. Hinckley, on October 16. In December four island vessels embarked for San Francisco. On the 6th Capt. David G. Patterson started in the small schooner, MARY & EMMA, and Capt. Job Cole­ man departed in command of the Ship MANCHESTER. The Ship CITIZEN left on December 17, carrying Capt. Oliver C. Coffin, two officers, six seamen, a cook and two stewards, and fifteen passen­ gers known to have been Nantucketers. On December 27 the Ship

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SCOTLAND, Capt. Barzillai T. Folger, sailed out of the harbor. Dur­ ing the year 1849 there is also a record that the Bark JOHN ADAMS, Capt. Shubael Worth, sailed for California, but the date is not given.

To picture more accurately the hardships of such a trip one must realize that 1849 predates the heyday of the American Clip­ per ship. Most of the gold rush vessels were small and poorly manned, hardly satisfactory for passenger service. The vessels averaged 300 tons.

Perhaps the Nantucketer had a slight advantage over many who made the ocean trip. Here it was common knowledge that a voyage often seemed interminable. Quarters aboard ship were crowded, food spoiled, and water supplies failed. But foreknowledge did not make these discomforts any easier to bear. Certainly a refitted whaler would not provide the "sweetest" accommodations for a voyage which might well last 200 days. It was little wonder that tempers wore thin despite preoccupation with making tents, boats, houses, tools, and other implements which would be useful when the destination was reached.

In view of the fact that a number of men returned to Nan­ tucket after their gold rush adventure, it is unfortunate that there are so few records describing the voyage. However, in the Nan­ tucket Whaling Museum collection there is a fine journal-log kept by James M. Bunker, 2d, a passenger on the AURORA, who appears to have been a young man of rare patience coupled with a saving sense of humor. Although he did not have his first navigation lesson until he had been at sea 43 days, Bunker re­ flected his nautical background by keeping his journal in the manner of a ship's log. He recorded wind and weather, ships sighted or spoke, latitude and longitude, air and water tempera­ tures, barometric pressure, whales sighted and other natural phe­ nomena observed. If this were all, his log would be a statistical record of little interest except to the meteorologist or the histor­ ian. However, although he did not possess great literary ability, Bunker's experiences and reactions are clearly stated as he con­ fided to his journal his dissatisfactions over the petty shipboard annoyances which became magnified by the monotony of six months spent in close quarters. Because his entries give such an accurate picture of the typical gold rush voyage they are extensively quoted in the following pages.

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1848 "A VIEW OF THE TOWN AND HARBOUR OF SAN FRANCISCO"

1849 "VIEW OF THE TOWN AND HARBOUR OF SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA. FROM THE SIGNAL HILL" Two photographs, presented by Henry C. Carlisle, of the town and harbor of San Francisco taken of early prints showing the rapid expansion of the town and its shipping caused by the Gold Rush.

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In January, 1849, this item appeared in The Nantucket In­ quirer : "The ship AURORA, Oapt. Seth M. Swain, was cleared on Tuesday,

by Messrs. C.G.&H. Coffin, and others, for San Francisco direct, with passengers, and a cargo consisting principally of buildings framed ready to be put up, lumber, naval stores, provisions, and sperm candles. She takes out no intoxicating liquors; we were informed by one of her principal owners, that it was resolved at the outset that nothing of the kind should form part of her cargo. The crew receive one dollar a month apiece, for the voyage out, with liberty to leave the ship on her arrival at San Francisco. They and the pas­ sengers are principally young men, and consist of some of our most intelligent, energetic and respectable citizens. They are mostly me­ chanics, and go out to California in search of a less crowded field of industry, with the hope, too, at the same time, of being able to gather their share of the golden harvest that has been discovered in the valley of the Sacremento. May health, happiness, and prosperity attend them."

Those on board were primarily Nantucketers: Capt. Seth M. Swain; 1st Mate Alexander Paddack; 2d Mate Benjamin Winslow; Crew—Thomas M. Folger, Roland Folger, George Randall, George Defrees, Thomas Allen, Thomas F. Swain, Augustus Ellis, Charles Alley, and James A. Law; Stewards—W. H. Harper and Arthur Cooper; Passengers—William Summerhays, Dr. John B. King, John H. Russell, Benjamin F. Folger, 3d, James M. Bunker, 2d, Andrew C. Mitchell, Edwin Hiller, William C. Pease, James H. Gibbs, Thomas F. Mitchell, Albert Macy, and Charles Wood.

Seaman "Antone" came from the Western Islands and Cook Joseph Marie from Lisbon. Passengers George and Joseph Rice were from Somerset, Mass., George and Adoniram Marbel, Charles Petty, and William Danning from Fall River, Mass., Franklin Simmons from Dighton, Mass., and James S. Goodrich from New York.

The AURORA was one of the many ships which left the east coast in January or February of that year and traveled with the prevailing westerlies of the North Atlantic along a southerly course in bitter winter weather. A long easting was necessary through the Horse Latitudes or Tropical Calms from 35° - 25° N. Lat. in order to pass around the Brazil capes and to take advan­ tage of the Northeast Trade Winds. Here even the slower ships could make eight or nine knots hourly for days. During the early part of her voyage the AURORA made good time. James Bunker recorded only a few minor mishaps:

HISTORIC NANTUCKET "January 9 We got over the bar at 1 P.M. the steam Boat carried us out to the point, we had light winds, at daylight we were 12 miles E.N.E. from Nantucket sanecty head in sight. Lat 41"15. Long 69"30 Dr Barometer 30"0"00 Wind N.E. "Jan 10th At 5 P.M. commenced blowing from N.E. reefed Topsails at 9 P.M. hove to under close reefed main Topsail and Fore topmast staysail, our booby hatch was not tight the water came down by the bucket full, we had to shut our stateroom doors to keep the water out. it was as hard a gale as we have had. Lat 40"30" Long 68"30" Barom 29"5"00 Wind N.N.E. "Jan 11th Commenced with strong winds from N.W. had some snow and hail squalls at 3 P.M. saw a water spout about 3 miles off. at 6 P.M. Judged we were in the ;Gulf stream; at 5 P.M. doubled reefed topsails Lat 38"30" Long 67" Dr [Dead reckoning] Barom 29" 8"9" Ther A 42" Water 70 NNW sf: * * * "Jan 17 Fine pleasant weather wind N.E. saw a ship to windward the first vessel of any description that we have seen since we left home, have been employed to day in fitting Dr Kings stateroom some of the passengers very seasick I have not been sick and probably shall not be this cruise Lat 27"42 Long 47"23 Barom 30"1"00 Ther A 69 Water 70 Wind NE. #

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"Jan 20:: Commenced with light winds from S East a ship in sight ahead about 10 miles off. Uncle Ben has got a bad cold Lat 26"25 Long 43"48 Barom 30"2"00 Ther A 73 Water 70 Wind SE. "Jan 21:: Commenced with strong winds from N.E. at 2 PM blowing a gale carried away our fly Jib boom, a very heavy sea running Lat 25"28 Long 42"46 Dr Bar 30"0"00 Ther A 72 Water 73 Wind N.East "Jan 22:: Commenced with a gale from S.E. hove to under close reefed main Topsail & Foretopmast staysail, have not shaved since we left home going to soon Lat 26"2 Long 42"20 Barom 30"0"00 Thermometer Air 73 Water 73 Wind S.E. by East "Jan 23:: Commenced with moderate wiinds from SE. by East Pas­ sengers variously employed some playing cards some checkers and some sleeping Lat 27"7 Long 41"25 Barom 30"1"00 Ther A 70 Water 72 Wind SE by East "Jan 24:: Commenced with light winds from S. East saw a few fly fish, our water is very bad. it tastes very strong of the yellow pine heading. Lat 27"59 Long 38"54 Barom 30"3"0 Ther A 70"00 Water 72 Wind S East "Jan 25:: Commenced with fine pleasant weather wind SE by S crew employed in makeing a new Fly Jib boom, we had Fryed ham for breakfast, beef & pork & duff for dinner, for supper ;Ashes; as the cooks calls them Lat 28"42 Long 37"58 Dr Barom 30"3"00 Ther A 72 W 69 Wind SE. by S

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For the next two weeks Bunker records favorable wind and weather. The AURORA made good time; the men on board were busy reading, writing letters, making overalls, dancing, singing, and spinning yarns; several ships were sighted. Optimism pre­ vailed.

As ships entered the belt of Equatorial Calms at 10° N. pas­ sengers experienced hot, sultry weather, and found that progress for the next 700 or 800 miles would depend upon the captain's skill. For the men of the AURORA, the voyage was lightened by a gam at the Equator on Valentine's Day. "Feb 14:: Commenced with light winds from S East. At 10 AM our partner was 5 miles ahead of us. we lowered a boat and started we pulled 3 hours before we got up with him we crossed the line in going to him. it was the Edward Everett of Boston Bound to California she was owned by the passengers, the crew was hired, they had two steam Engines. 2 large scows already to put together a large lathe, and mining tools of all descriptions there was 150 passengers & 20 seamen, they asked us a thousand questions about our voyage, and gave three Cheers when they found we were bound to California they treated us to lemonade, and sung us a California song, in the afternoon our Capt. went on board and a boat load from their ship came on board of us. they were going to the mines armed & equipped each one had a 2 barrel gun. a Rifle & one of colts Revolvers. Lat 6" South Long 24"38 Bar 29"9'0 Ther 81 Water 82 Wind SE" "Sung By the Edward Everetts Company On board Ship Aurora of Nantucket Feb. 14. 1849 While crossing the Line. Atlantic Ocean (Air) Mary. May. "Come listen to me yankee boys a story I;;ll relate That happened in the valley of the . . . California state Twas down in the bottom lands we fellows went so bold And worked like hungry Tigers when we thought about their Gold Chorus. Repeat "Oh; The Gold they say tis brighter than the day And when tis mine;;ho:: wont I shine and drive dull care away ,

"My creditors gave me a year to pay them I thanked them very kindly then leaved for And as I scraped the valley where once the I filled my trowsers pocket with the bright

what I owe Francisco river rolled and shining Gold

"By the banks of the river where we stoop and bend so low The flakes we find above the ground, the lumps are down below But there is a sport where sometimes we are told That when the tide is very low wee;l find great heaps of Gold

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HISTORIC NANTUCKET "Beneath a hot and burning- sun I have worked for many a day Quite happy that I;ve grown so rich and soon were going away I had a monstrous heap of Gold when from the sand twas parted I got me boards and boxed it up and then for home I started (Chorus to be Repeated)"

As the AURORA entered the Southeast Trades she continued to make good time. However, the period of warm weather en­ countered while passing through the equatorial belt had caused much of the food to spoil. Fish or an occasional porpoise was the only fresh supply.

"Monday Feb 19:: Commenced with light winds moderate weather a ship & Brig in sight off lee beam and a ship off weather bow the Cook and second steward are ;;Lousy;; ;pork rusty; potatoes rotten;; Lat 4.48 - Lo 28.36 "Friday Feb 23:: Strong winds squally weather passed a ship last night about 12 oclock. times goes hard, we had plum rice pudding;; half boiled; beef; rusty pork, baked beans for dinner Lat 12'11 Long 32'42 Barom 30'0'0 Ther A 82 Ther Water 82 Wind S.E. "Sunday Feb 25:: Pleasant weather with light winds we are loosing the trades this afternoon we struck a porpoise the iron drew this is the fourth Sunday that we have struck fish we have saved three out of four Lat 20'09 Long 36T6 B 30'0'0 Ther Air 81 Ther Water 82 Wind E"

After the Southeast Trades one could hope for little promis­ ing weather in the southward voyage. Through the Horse Latitudes of the Southern Hemisphere the ship must take advantage of the least breeze to make progress on a tack. As the belt of prevailing westerlies were entered, sudden squalls and heavy seas increased anxiety and shortened tempers.

"Friday March 2d Moderate winds fair weather Steering S.E. going about 6 knots we passed a large tree this afternoon the cook & first steward hooked this morning in the Galley the Cook got bit in the arm the steward got a thump in the Grinders . . sjs

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"Sunday March 4:: Commenced with a gale at last night it com­ menced blowing from S.W. at 3 AM carried away our fly Jib boom it is the third time since we left home the gale increased until 2 PM when it began to moderate this eve it is blowing strong with a heavy sea running, we saw a Goney and caught him. the first we

NANTUCKET FORTY-NINERS have seen, old Rough & Ready will have to wait untill tomorrow before he is ;President; Lat 30'46 Long 44" B 29'5'0 Ther A 78 Water 74 Wind WSW" *

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"Tuesday March 6:: Light winds heavy sea we are under short sail we have a head beat sea and we donot like to drive her into it we are rolling the water in on both sides, some of the passengers got up their guns and shot several black haglets we saw one Goney. and a school of poooproppooasses; this evening it is calm, ship rolling heavy, hard work to keep in my berth Lat 33'5 Long 43'50 Baron 29'9'0 Ther A 68 Ther Water 71 Wind WSW "Wednesday March 7:: Commenced with strong winds from W steering ,SW we broke out the lower hold and took out wood and water enough to last ;Round the Horn;; this evening it is squally Lat 34 Long 44- B 30-l'0 Ther A 72 Water 70 Wind W "Thursday March 8 Commenced with light winds fair weather with a heavy swell from the SW. at 7 PM a light breeze from East there was a partial Eclipse of the moon this eve we watched it when it went ofl and found our chronometer was right Lat 34'41 Long 45'58 B 30'4'0 Ther A 67 Water 69 Wind S "Friday March 9:: Light winds fair weather a Brig in sight to wind­ ward. We have got studdensails set and are going 9 knots, we are off the River Laplata. Lat 35'54 Long 42'29 Barom 30'3'0 Ther A 67 Water 65 Wind E "Saturday March 10:: Commenced with strong winds from NE steer­ ing SW raining hard, we are on the Brazil Banks at 10 AM it began to blow at 12 it hard we hauled up spanker double reefed Topsail at 2 PM more moderate this eve It is calm we have sailed since we left home in a direct line 9.060 miles . . ."

"Thursday, March 15 ... we have 2 men sick forward Mr. Law & Mr. Ellis both have got bad colds . . ."

"Saturday March 17:: Commenced with fine pleasant weather after breakfast there was some hard words passed between C Wood & Capt Petty about the Barometer and carrying sail, this eve there has been a row about smoking in the cabin there is a few that would like to govern the whole but it is no go. there is a few that want to smoke in the cabin and will untill the Capt tells us not to when he does there will be a worse row than there has been yet we went on deck to smoke when they were sea sick now they have got well we smoke below. Lat 45'10 Long 57'20 Barom 29'9'0 Ther A 55 Water 50 Wind Wesit "Sunday March 18:: First part strong breeze very smooth, we were going 12 knot by the log. at 3 A.M. there was a very singular squall it was in the shape of a rainbow, white at the ends and black in the

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HISTORIC NANTUCKET middle, it was small but spiteful we were running 2 points free when it struck us. it took us a back, we up helm and ran off before it it lasted % hour and then it had blown its blast at 10 AM wind hauled to the W. and moderated this eve it is calm and very pleasant.

Lat 47'9 Long 59'30 Barom 29'8'0 Ther W 50 Air 51 Wind WNW "Monday March 19:: Fine pleasant weather light winds at 2 PM calm at 3 PM a bird about the size of a sparrow flew on board he was very tired and soon went to sleep, the 2d mate caught him. and broke the birds leg accidentally we put him under a sieve and shall let him go as soon as land is in sight . .

"Tuesday March 20:: . . . there was a heavy sea when we wore ship a small part of a large sea came on board and wet every man on deck Lat 49'33 Long 61'30 B 29'8'0 Ther A47' Water 48 Wind West" if

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"Thursday March 22 A gale from SW. hove to under close reefed main Topsail & Fore topmast stay sail, weather cold, it has blown hard all day. this eve we have had some heavy squalls with some hail the Barometer has risen slowly all day. we find that the Gale commences when the Barometer begins to rise and it blows untill it has reached its minimum height we have had 4 Gales in 17 days Lat 49'16 Long 62'5 sjs

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"Saturday March 24" Commenced with strong winds from SW at 10 AM Tacked ship we have had several squalls this forenoon with some snow this afternoon steering S.W.byW. Falklang Island bearing S East this eve I have got the Blues I am going to bed to try to sleep them off. a sea voyage is very tedious especially if you are in a hurry Lat 49'24 Long 62'52 Barometer 30'1'0 Ther Air 43' Ther Water 45 Wind S.S.W."

As the Straits of Magellan were approached, captains had to make the fateful decision to 'round the Horn' or run the Straits.

Less seaworthy vessels were guided through the Straits where adverse currents and tides, storm, snow, and fog often deterred them fifty or sixty days, Sturdier ships like the AURORA, able to take the pounding, were taken on the Horn route where there was room to tack and as much as a month's time might be saved. By now James Bunker felt experienced enough to question, on paper at least, the wisdom of the captain in setting his course. This appears to have been common among the amateurs who made the gold rush voyage. It was particularly unwarranted in this instance for Captain Swain was expert enough to make the voyage in 179 days, well below average.

"Thursday March 29:: . . . raised Staten land ... at 3 PM began to blow from SW. took in sail at 4 PM hove to under close reefed main topsail & Fore Topmast staysail . . ."

NANTUCKET FORTY-NINERS "Friday March 30:: . . . weather looking particularly bad Barometer falling we expect to have a jsneezer; Lat 55'51 Long 64'20 Bar 28'5'0 Thr A 36 SW "Saturday March 31:: A regular roarer from SW. with a heavy sea Barometer rising slowly at 6 PM we had a hail squall our ship rolls to windward very bad we have had some water on our decks to day one sea in particular it took 2 studdensails that were on the heel of the Bowsprit and the cage anchor and they came aft in a hurry, Lat 56'34 Long 64'28 Barometer 28'4 Ther A 34 Wind S.W. "Sunday April 1:: Commenced with a gale from S.W. ship hove to with cold disagreeable weather squalls every half hour with some snow at 10 AM a Brig passed showing English colours, there is a ship in sight astern of us. we have not had any fire since we left the coust. we suffer with cold feet, and wet close the stove is not put up because the capt is afraid that it will upset and set the ship on fire . . . . *

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"Wednesday April 4:: light winds pleasant weather through the night this morning, fair wind & weather on deck, foul down below Br. Rice said at the breakfast table that the mate washed his teeth in the dipper that belongs to the Berth one of the passengers told the mate he called up the Dr and they talked very plain language at 10 AM Light winds from SW. at dinner the steward and Mr. A C. M had some hard words about waiting on the table, at 2 PM Joe the Spanish boy stole some gingerbread, the steward told his father, he set the boy. there has been 2 rows in the Forecastle but I guess I shall not give you a description of them . . ."

"Thursday 5:: . . . saw a ship to windward with colours set in mizen rigging, we hove the main yard a back and waited for her to run down at 11% he hailed us and wanted to get a fore yard he had lost his in a gale, we could not let him have one we did not know how soon we should want one ourselves her name was the Cornelia. from New Zealand bound to London . . ." # s ^ * "Sunday April 8:: . . . steering SSW. Lat 57'30 Long 72'51 B 29'4 Ther A 39 Wind .W There is a story told of our old ship captains that when they came around the horn they would not go. North untill they had been to the Iron pole which lay in Longitude of 80. I think that we shall have to see it we have had chances to cut off the corner but the Capt. will Not "Monday April 9 Commenced with strong winds from S.W. at 2 AM reefed topsails took in spanker at 4% AM furled main sail at 5 AM woke up with the cabin full of smoke heard some one say the ship was on ;;Fire;; I got up and dressed very quick by this time the cabin was full of smoke all hands were looking for the fire we searched the cabin & run and could not find anything, the smoke was

19

HISTORIC NANTUCKET gaining all the time we believed that the ship was on fire and you can guess our feelings better than I can describe them it was blowing a gale of wind off shore with a heavy sea and we were 200 miles from land) some were running- about the ship without shoes, some without stockings and some like poor Juan when Alphonse hooked to him in the alley near Julias room, when one of the foremast hands came aft and told us that they had been trying to build a fire in the forecastle but that it smoked so bad that they had to give it up. the smoke came aft through between decks into the Bread room and then into the cabin Lat 58'6 Long 75 B 28'6'0 Ther A 39 Wind NW" Hi

sjs

sfc

H:

"Friday April 13:: Commenced with light winds from S at 10 AM wind veered tacked ship, there is a large ship in sight to windward at 3 PM wind hauled to the N steering W. by N Barometer falling we expect a norther, we broke out to day for wood and water and we find that we have got to stop and recruit the capt wants to stop at Juan Fernandes [Robinson Crusoe's island] but we cannot get . . . wood there we think of stopping at Talcahuano. we are all very anxious to get to California but we want something to eat and drink on the passage our wood will possibly last us to Talcahuano we have water enough to last to the line if we go in it will lengthen out passage 2 weeks if not longer Lat 55'16 Long 80'30 B 29'5'0 Ther­ mometer of the Air 39' Wind West"

•

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"Sunday April 15:: . .. . there was a part of a sea came on board there was 3 feet of water on deck it went down the cabin Gangway. & Booby hatch without an invitation, a line over the stern 25 fathoms long would blow out strait and remain so sometime without touching the water . . ."

Once around the tip of South America a ship's course followed in reverse the meteorological sequence of the Atlantic—the rough Westerlies, Horse Latitudes, Southeast Trades, and Equatorial Calms. Then north of the Equator a long westing through the Northeast Trades was necessary in order to execute the return tack east through the northern Horse Latitudes to San Francisco, 122° W Long. Some sailing ships found the Northeast Trades of the Pacific less cooperative than those of the Atlantic and were frequently blown toward Hawaii. Furthermore summer head winds made the long starboard tack to port difficult. Passengers, un­ comfortable and weary from the tedious voyage, found these delays so close to their destination almost unbearable.

"Wednesday April 25 Light winds from SW. steering N.E. at day­ light saw 2 ships ahead at 4 AM set Fore Topmast studdensail & main T. Gallant studdensail this afternoon the watch are repairing Mizen Topsail this afternoon the passengers are washing and drying their bed clothes, the decks leak bad there is but very few tight

NANTUCKET FORTY-NINERS staterooms, the Forecastle is wet all of the time the crew suffered with the cold & wet off. Cape Horn. Lat 38'6 Long 76'8 B 30'0'0 Ther A 55 Wind S.W. "April 26 Commences with light winds from N steering NE.V2E running in for the land at daylight saw the Island of Mocha bearing S.E. 43 miles off a ship in sight to leward at 11% AM wore ship steering S.W.by W. light winds at 2 PM strong wind from the N. hauled up mainsail & reefed fore & main Topsails at 7 PM calm very pleasant weather it is calm one hour and a gale the next in these diggins Lat 37'50 Long 74'30 B 30'0'0 Ther A 58 Wind NNW" • * • * "April 28:: Commenced with light winds from NW steering NNE at 4 AM hove to waiting for daylight at 4% our partner came up with us we spoke him. understood him to say he was bound in to Talcahuano after he passed we squared away at daylight he was 8 miles to leward. as soon as it was light enough to see we saw St. Marys Island off weather bow. distance 12 miles at 1 PM we were off the mouth of the Bay. at 5 PM let our anchor go. at 5% the Capt of the port came on board, at 7 PM some of the passengers went on shore some went on board of the Young Hero. Capt Swain "April 29:: I went on shore this morning and have been from one end of the Town to the other, it is a hard looking place the houses are one story high with tiled roofs the Town is situated on a level piece of land with mountains on the South & West side the streets are strait & muddy the ;Ladies; wear clod hoppers. & are dressed in style some in silks & bronze slippers, the majority in black alpacca & Mouslin Delane dresses, the men seem to be a poor Lazy set I saw a few at work unloading a ship they got 2 Rials a day. the ladies are thickset rather short with Black hair white teeth red cheeks a dark skin and are always laughing I should think they had first rate dispositions, they always saluted us with ;;Come in California;; "April 30:: This day I have been on the tops of the highest mountains I could find they are covered with small trees and some grape vines, and herbs of various kinds I gathered some spearment and plantain. & saw several kinds of berries and one pine Apple bush. I saw several. Hooked bill Curlews & some Wild pigeons, the water is led from the Mountains in spouts, and is the only place of fresh water that I saw we have got 12 casks (50 bbs) of water and lO'OOO sticks of wood on board if we can get them stowed down tomorrow forenoon we shall sail in the afternoon "Tuesday May 1:: Commenced with light winds from NW pleasant weather this forenoon stowed down wood & water and cleared up decks at 1 PM the Harbour Master came on board and called all hands aft each one of us had to answer to his name before we could get our papers at 2 PM took our anchor and stood out of the bay with a strong breeze from S.W. at 9 PM set. Fore. & main & lower

20

HISTORIC NANTUCKET studdensails the passengers have been employed in stowing away their fruit such as Grapes Apples, figs, pears, quinces & wine Eggs, cheese all that had money to spare have laid in something to eat. the ship was not recruited, all that was bought for the ships use was a few Onions. & potatoes, and a little sugar "May 2d Commenced with strong wind from S. steering NNW at 9 AM set Fore. & main & lower studdensails thick weather at 1 PM set starboard Fore & main studdensails this day the passengers have been employed in stowing away their Fruit .... we have had Fresh Beef 3 times a day and it has given me the —handles 9% PM light winds rainy Lat 33'32 Long Bar 29'8 Ther A 58 "May 3:: Commenced with light winds & calms about one half of the ships company are sick, at 2 PM 2 Ann Backs came along after us in our wake they came within 40 feet of us several times we could hear them blow very distinctly at 4 PM saw a very large school of porpoises at 6. PM furled fore & main T Gallantsail hauled up foresail & mainsail calm & raining Lat Long B 29'8'0 Ther A 58 Wind NJS.E.W. "May 4:: Commenced with a calm at 9 AM sent main Royalmast up at 11% a breeze sprang up from W. steering N there is 2 ships in sight, made a new fly Jibbom repaired main royal this afternoon calm & thick weather No Lat Barometer SO'O'O Ther Air 59 wind at 7 this eve there was a meeting of the passengers in the dining room, to see what could be done in regard to cleaning it the meeting was called to order by Dr J B King. Dr. Rice was chosen chairman Dr King offered a resolution that the passengers abstain from spitting on the floor when spittons were provided, an amendment was offered by C Wood that the Capt & officers be included, the amendment was lost the Resolution was carried. . . . I must stop for want of [page torn]" "Saturday May 5:: Commenced with a calm & thick weather at 6% AM one of our boats boarded the ship. Christina Ca.pt — from hamburg. bound to Mazatland cargo of Liquor he left Valpariso 2d may he told us that the Edward Everett & John W. Coffin were there he told us that the Fall River steamer the Empire State was burnt &c. at 8 AM boarded the Helen M. Fielder. Capt. Willis from Riojanerio bound to California with passengers & a cargo of lumber he left on the 10 of April he reported the C Colon, of N York in there for repairs the C. Colon had a very heavy gale in the gulf the 10 of January, he lost his deckload and sprung his mast and leaked bad. he was to leave on the 25 of January, there had been trouble in Rio with the Americans & Portuguese, the Americans had disarmed some of the soldiers, the noise was stopped by a proclamation from the Gov. he told the Portuguese to let the Ameri­ cans along unless they committed murder &c. at 9% AM sent up main Royal at 3 PM sent out Fly Jibboom bent fly Jib and sit it our partners in sight this eve wind very light Lat 31'38 Long 74'50 B 30'0'0 Ther A 60 Wind West

NANTUCKET FORTY-NINERS "Sunday May 6:: . . . there was a row with the 2d mate and one of the P.s the 2 mate got squeezed, the 2 mate and Cook hooked" "Tuesday May 8 . . . Dr. Rice & co are makeing their tent this after­ noon. . .

"Sick list May 9 Charles Alley T. F. Swain "The greater part of those that are sick have got the Diahhraea; some have got a bad cold

A Marbell Dr. Rice C Petty A C Mitchell B F Folger J. M Bunker 2d R Folger Edwin Hiller J H Russell E Marbell A Ellis

"Thursday May 10:: Woke up with a noise that was rather unusual soon found there was a row with Mr. Mi—11 & the steward and 2d mate they were sending one another to the infernel Regions without the benefit of clergy. . . .

"Friday May 11:: Commenced with light winds from S.E. pleasant weather crew employed in painting & fitting ship passengers em­ ployed in makeing Tents running bullets making shot bags picking oakum &c Lat 25'50 Long 75'00 B 30'0'00 Ther A 63. Wind South "Saturday May 12 Commenced with light winds from S. steering SW. under all sail we Judge ourselves in the Trades, they are very light at present but we are in hopes to have them stronger as we draw towards the line we have had beautiful weather ever since we came out of Talcahuano. to day I have been makeing some buckets to carry out to the mines;; Two of our passengers are quite sick Mr. Marbell is a bed keeper. Mr. ACM is almost as bad they are under the care of Dr J B King who is. very attentive and very Kind. Lat 23'56 Long 75'12 B 30'0'0 Ther Air 65 Wind South So Ends This Day" "May 1)4:: Commenced with pleasant weather light wind the passen­ gers have been trying their Revolvers it has been ;pop; pop. all day G Randall shot 2 Tropic birds they fell clear of the ship there is one thing that we are sure of having every morning an that is ;;SOUR BREAD;; the stewards do not love salaratus and they will not put it in, our Capt eats whatever is put before him without grumbling the (Stewards have the sway. Lat 20'6 Long 77 B 30'0'0 Ther A 66 Wind E.N.E "May 15 light winds fair weather steering from N to WNW the passengers have been Target shooting with rifles and revolvers at 7 PM the steward rung the Bell and told us we must not use fresh

22

HISTORIC NANTUCKET water for any other purpose but to drink, by order of the ;Capt; we are 15 days from Talcahuano. where we went on purpose to get wood & water to be deprived of haveing fresh water to wash our face & hands does not suit us. if we have not got enough to last it is the captains fault he could have got more if he had a mind to.- the bread that we have been eating was not fit for hogs to eat the decks leaked the water & slush from the galley the salt water the rain water & all other kinds of water went in and wet the Bread and nothing was done to stop it Lat 18'50 Long 78 B 30'0'0 Ther A 66 Wind S East "Wednesday May 16 Commenced with light winds saw several Albercores and a school of Black Fish our fare to day has been rather hard for dinner we had raw duff salt Funk, for supper musty hard bread Lat 17'50 Long 78 B 30'0'0 Ther A 66 Wind S East" sfc • • • "Monday May 21:: Commenced with a strong breeze fair weather this afternoon thick weather with some rain to day I have been makeing a tub to wash my Face & hands in when we get some fresh water. I opened a barrel of flour to day for the ship it. was. sour & musty & as hard as chalk it is old like all of the rest, the pork is so poor that the passengers will not eat it we are shaved the tallest kind on the provisions Lat 12'4 Long. Barometer 30' Air 72 -SE "Tuesday May 22d Commenced with strong winds fair weather this morning the passengers; protested;; against the ;Flour; that we are eating after breakfast the Capt. hove by the barrel that we had been eating and got up another that was only ;sour; he broke out the fore hold and got out a cask of Bread that was good because there was no bad taste to it. Lat 11' Long Barom 30'0'0 Ther A 72 Wind S East" "Friday May 2(5 Commenced with light winds fair weather passen­ gers & crew variously employed very warm weather the Cook was taken sick to day ;ahem;; the women in Talcahuano are very hand­ some. Lte 7'59 Long B 30'0'00 Ther Air 76 Wind S.E. "Saturday May 26:: . . . Mr. G. W. Defrees has taken the cooks place for a few days. . . .

"Sunday May 27:: First part light winds fair weather there was a regular row this morning about cooking private messes in the galley, in the first place our provisions are very poor, when we were in Talcahuano C. Wood & co bought $50.00 worth of provisions for their own use they have been in the habit of cooking in the Galley whenever they chose—Last night the watch caught a porpoise it was not cleaned time enough for breakfast Mr S—ys got a peice and went into the Galley to cook it the first steward kicked up a row with him and went to the Capt. about it. the Capt ordered Mr. S~ys out he would not go he said C Wood cooked there and he was going to Mr Wood heard his name called he went to the Galley and told

NANTUCKET FORTY-NINERS Mr S—hays, not to use his name Mr S. then commenced and swore by note he wanted Mr. W. to meet him with any weapons he choose Mr. Wood said that the weapons that nature gave him was all he wanted it ended with out comeing to blows. Lat 5'40 Long 104'5O Barom 30'0'00 Ther A 76 Wind S.E." • sfc sk * "Wednesday May 30" . . . this eve our company met and talked over things &c &c &c &c . . . . Lat 00.20 miles south Long 110' B 30'0'0 Ther A 77 Wind. E." *

*

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"Friday June 1:: Commenced with pleasant weather this forenoon there has been a little of everything going on some have been makeing Rat traps some shoe pegs & powder Flasks" pistol Barrels Tents Buckets Jacknife Blades &c.c.c.c.c.c.e. Lat 4'T7 [N] Long B 29'9'0 Ther A 77 SE. "Saturday June 2d. ... we expect the ;Doldrums; every day this afternoon got up a barrel of Flour opened it and found it musty, hard & sour, put it back got up another that was only musty & hard Lat 6'46 Long 111'40 B 29'9'0 Ther Air 78 S.E. "Monday June 4:: . . . this Eve the wind is No where in particular we are in the Doldrums . . . ."

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"Wednesday June 6 . . . this afternoon & evening the wind has in­ creased from the N we think we are in the trades "Thursday June 7 . . . this morning a Barrel of pork was opened for the ships use it was rusty & soft and looked as if it had been salted some years we have got to eat it or go without any at 7 AM struck & saved a porpoise — weigh 300 lbs Lat 13'39 Long 113'58 B 30 Thr A 82 Wind N%E "Friday June 8 strong trades all hands have been loafing we have had pox-poise cooked 3 times to day we have lived like heroes G. Randall got some steel filings in his Eye yesterday, this afternoon Dr J B King, took 6 small peices out. Ther A 76"

•

"Sunday June 10" Strong trades fair weather yesterday J. A. Law got some steel filings in his eye this afternoon Dr King, took 2 small peices out . . . .

S^C

SjS

tfi

"June 16 light wind from NE Fair weather crew employed in painting Long Boat . . . ." *

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"June 19 Commenced with light winds from NE thick rainy weather at 7% AM saw a large school of Wright Whale porpoises, this after­ noon strong wind hands variously employed, some makeing knap­ sacks some Dirks, some belts, some mending close &cc.c.c Lat 32"15 Long 134*12 Ther A 64 Wind NE

24

HISTORIC NANTUCKET "June 20 First part light wind from NE. thick weather hands var­ iously employed if the Trades last much longer we shall be on the North West coust or some where worse Lat 34'10 Thermometer of the Air 64 Long Wind NE."

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•

"Friday June 22:: First part Light wind heading S by E at day­ light spoke the schooner Roe from N York bound to California 149 days out [the AURORA was then 164 days out of Nantucket] with 40 passengers, at sundown she was 10 miles ahead of us . . . .

"Saturday June 23 First part light wind from N steering N.byE thick weather the Breakfast this morning was a hard one soft tack that was sour & musty, the buiscuit was put in the oven to dry and was burned black the meat was salt & lean the coffee was not fit to drink, the 2d steward made some ;;toast;; for his breakfast. The Cook is sick & G. W. Defrees has taken his place for the present, it is about time this voyage was ended we are all hands sick of it Lat 34'40 Long 132'2;9 Ther Air 60 Wind North" sj! * * * "Monday June 25:: ... we have got 6 cask of water about enough to last 20 days . . . ." *

*

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"Wednesday June 27. . . . some have been packing their things so that when the Anchor goes they can leave the ship Lat Long 128.28.

Thr A 66. SW" *

*

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•

"Friday June 29 ... at 12 oclock. we were 140. miles from Francisco By chronometer, and 120 By Lunar. Obs. Lat 37.17 Long. 125 Ther A 58 Wind N West "-Saturday June 30:: First part light wind from N.W. steering N by E at 10 AM. wind hauled to W.N.W. at 12 got the latitude and found we were 10 miles to the North of our port and 55 from land.

Changed our course to E.N.E. with light wind, saw huge flocks of ducks with hooked bills, the passengers were up last night looking for land, we have been running in for the land all day and at sun­ down it was not in sight, this forenoon we got a Lunar, this after­ noon by Chronometer & this evening we got a sight, at the star, spica. but they donot agree Our. Capt. is trying very hard to make the chronometer wrong it is line pleasant weather. Bright moonlight, all we have got to do is head her for the land & crack on. we shall se the land before we get ashore. I have been packing all of my small things that I can spare, and getting ready for a start I am tired of doing nothing. & our Grub is very poor we are out of potatoes, pep­ per. onions, sugar, dried apples, cheese. Vinegar, &cccc. and we have got but little Fresh water, at % past 8. spica Lunar Obs. made us 90 short or 71 Long miles from Land Our Chronometer would make us This Eve; 2 miles from Land 10% PM there is not any Land in sight yet Lat 37.56 Long 122.50 Ther Air 56' Wind W.N.W.

CHART

Found in Journal Log Kept by Nantucket Forty-Niner James M. Bunker

27

HISTORIC NANTUCKET "Sunday July 1:: At 3 oclock last night raised the Farralone Rocks; at day light saw the ;Golden Gate;; at 10 AM we are running in for the land with light wind at 12 let the anchor go in front of the town a long distance from the shore. There is about 60 ships & Brigs & Schooners without number, we found that the main closed at 8. PM. we took our paper on shore I went to the office to get my letters but the post master was makeing up the mail and would-not deliver anything untill Monday, the steamer Leaves tomorrow at 12.

"Monday. July 2:: At daylight got a scow and got our things on shore, got our tent up and put our things in we bought some Beef steak, at 16 cents per pound and some potatoes at 10 dollars a bushel, we thought we would have one good meal, after this we shall have to take what we can get.

"Tuesday July 3:: This day we have been looking round to see what could be done, we find that it is the sicly season at the mines, carpentering is good, we think of stopping here untill the Last of September, wages are $12.00 a day for carpentering. I have seen sev­ eral that have been to the mines they all think of going up in the fall.

"Wednesday July 4th Fine pleasant weather it has been pleasant and warm the people are too busy to think of stopping for the 4th there has been very little firing of guns, in the evening they had Rockets, squibs & crackers, &c.c. they.fired them singly untill they got tired, and then set fire to a Large heap about that time I Guess there was some scattering;; the whole Square was one continual Blaze, it lasted about % hour, and then the crowd went home peaeably there was but very few drunken people, but the way they Gamble, is on a large scale, they put it down by the ounce, and by the 20 oz."

This is the final entry. James Bunker's journal had served its purpose. It had offered an outlet for the frustrations of the voyage.

By keeping it, he had managed to fill some of the idle hours of the past six months.

James M. Bunker 2d was just one of the six hundred Nantucketers who reached California by sea, but his experiences were representative of the thousands who shared in the great adven­ ture. As John E. Pomfret, Director of the Huntington Library, San Marino, California, has so aptly stated: "They had traversed close to 20,000 miles, they had scudded through the Trades in both oceans and in both hemispheres, they had touched at strange ports, and they had been pitched about in the southern turning. No matter what else lay ahead after landing at San Francisco, for there was disillusionment and disappointment for most of them, the gold rush voyager of 1849 was already a full-fledged pioneer."

NANTUCKET FORTY-NINERS

28

And what of the AURORA is a question which may logically be asked. The answer is found in part in one paragraph in the letter, heretofore quoted, dated July 21, 1849, to Charles Coffin from his associate — "The AURORA arrived on the first of this month. The lumber was sold for $280 per M taken at the ship. The boat brought us $1800. The ship sold for $10,000. I never worked harder in my life than I did to make that transaction. Considering that there are a hundred and 10 or 20 vessels of all sizes, shapes and qualities and all for sale or to be given away, lying here, bills of expense and constantly subject to accident, you may consider the sale of the ship AURORA at any price a good bargain — but as it was done, quite a miracle."

Thus a "Gold Rush Voyage" ended the career of the AURORA as a Nantucket ship, a worthy member of the Island's fast dwindling but once proud fleet.

29

History Making Events Despite the closing of its various buildings and exhibits at the end of the summer season the Association is far from an inactive organization during the winter months. It still must attend to the maintenance, development and improvement of its properties and exhibits. Keeping contact with its members, and other historical associations through the publication and distribu­ tion of Historic Nantucket is a large size but worth while job, judging from the letters received and comments appearing in other publications. Answering general correspondence and histori­ cal inquiries also requires considerable time. But above all and of most importance, the Association, at all times, must play its part in helping to promote the economic welfare and life of the com­ munity. The winter office at 17 Fair Street, with Miss Ethel Anderson in charge, is a busy place five days out of every week where President Adams gives daily attention to the affairs of the Association through direct contact with the public and through consultation with the officers and various committees and the monthly meeting of the Council.

The Council received, on November first, a letter from Mrs. Elizabeth B. Worth presenting her resignation as a member of the Council and Treasurer of the Association in which position she had served efficiently and loyally for many years. The Council met promptly and, as it was explained that Mrs. Worth's resigna­ tion was prompted by the condition of her health which required a much-needed rest and relief from official duties with the Asso­ ciation and various other organizations with which she had been associated, her resignation was accepted with regret and a special vote of appreciation for her years of faithful service.

At the same meeting, which was held November 4th, the Council unanimously elected Miss Ethel Anderson as Treasurer.

She will continue to serve also as Secretary of the Association and as a member of the Council to which positions she was elected July 29th by the Council as reported in our October issue.

Changes in the chairmanship of two buildings have taken place. Mrs. William Voorneveld, because of other activities, found it necessary to present her resignation as chairman of "1800

HISTORY MAKING EVENTS

30

House" which was accepted with regret by the Council. It is with pleasure we are able to announce that Mrs. John Bartlett, Jr., has accepted this chairmanship and her appointment has been confirmed by the Council. Mrs. Bartlett is keenly interested in and aware of the problems of presenting to the public an exhibit such as this and has plans for a strong committee to help her in this work.

Mrs. Lewis S. Edgarton presented her resignation as chairman of the Oldest House which was prompted by her moving to Syra­ cuse, New York, where her husband has recently entered into a new business. Her four years of service as chairman have been marked by significant restoration work and untiring effort in further restoration of the house and in better presentation and preservation of the exhibits. Her withdrawal is a distinct loss and her resignation was accepted by the Council with regret.

The Association is exceedingly fortunate in having obtained Mrs. William Perkins' consent to serve as chairman of the Oldest House to which position she has been appointed by the Council.

Mrs. Perkins and her husband, who is Principal of the Cyrus Peirce School, have been interested students of Island history since they moved here and have engaged in extensive research despite their many other activities.

At the 61st Annual Meeting of the Association, President Adams in her annual address said: "We were never more certain that the future of our Association must be guarded by a younger generation of workers. How grand it would be to have half a dozen volunteers come along and say — 'We are here to pledge our allegiance to the future of the Nantucket Historical Associa­ tion'." The acceptance of this post by Mrs. Perkins is a prompt answer to this plea and the Council is not only gratified but hopeful that other members of the younger generation will follow closely in volunteering as active workers for the Association to take over as the older workers are forced to lay down the reins.

One of our members recently approached our President on the subject of establishing a permanent fund for the upkeep and repair of one of our properties, namely the Old Mill, and offered to donate $1,000 as a nucleus for such a fund. Realizing the impor-

31

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

tance of having special funds for maintenance of our properties the Council approved establishing such a fund and expressed its grateful appreciation with respect to the suggestion and proffered donation.

Upon being so advised our member promptly forwarded the promised donation unrestricted as to its use, either with respect to principal or interest except that the donor would like to have it used to start a fund to which "perhaps others will contribute" for the Old Mill preservation. To insure the carrying out of the donor's wishes the Finance Committee recommended to the Council (1) that the gift be considered as a "Designated Fund". (2) that it be placed in a special account labeled "Old Mill Preservation Fund"; (3) that additions may be made to this fund through contributions of others with the approval of the Council; (4) that the interest earned on funds in the account be credited to the account, and (5) that withdrawal of funds either principal and/or interest shall be made only upon approval of the Council. These recommendations were promptly approved by the Council.

Mrs. Charles Ross, whose grandfather was miller at the Old Mill, is the member to whom we are indebted for the establishment of this fund which it is hoped will prove to be an incentive to others to add to this fund or to help establish similar funds for our other buildings.

As a Director at Large, President Nancy S. Adams attended the fall meeting of the Bay State Historical League held at Groton, Mass., on October 15th. The meeting was held at the First Parish Church, the speaker being Mr. George Wheatley, President of the Groton Historical Society. Despite bad weather, 107 persons rep­ resenting 53 Societies were in attendance. Preceding the League meeting a luncheon was given for a meeting of the Directors.

The winter meeting of the Bay State Historical League will be meld in Brookline on January 28, 1956, and the spring meeting is to be held in Wellesley.

The Nantucket High School local history class students ac­ companied by their instructor, Mr. Charles Pearl, visited the Whaling Museum the latter part of October. Custodian Archibald

HISTORY MAKING EVENTS

32

Cartwright gave the students an interesting and graphic lecture on whaling beginning with the sighting of a whale by the lookout from the masthead then continuing with the manning, lowering and handling of the whale boat; the chase, harpooning and final capture; the cutting in, use of the tryworks; the spermaceti press and the use of the gear and equipment. The rapt attention of the students was evidence of their interest and the excellence of Custodian Cartwright's presentation. A question and answer period followed in which Committeemen George W. Jones and W. Ripley Nelson, who were present to greet the visitors, also participated.

It was most gratifying to see the interest of these students in Nantucket history in the study of which the Association is aiding through its Annual Local History Competition and student awards.

In reporting in the October issue Roland Wells Robbins' lec­ ture "Treasure Hunting in Americana" your editor inadvertently made a mis-statement. Mr. Robbins stated that the army sergeant who produced the army dog tag reading "Henry David Thoreau, Jr." was a collateral relative of the famous Henry and not a direct descendant as erroneously stated in the article.

The October issue of Historic Nantucket was mailed to mem­ bers and others on our exchange mailing list in 38 states, the Dis­ trict of Columbia, Hawaii, England and far away Ceylon. We are gratified and proud that we are able to present news of the Asso­ ciation's current activities and stories of "Old Nantucket" to such a wide spread audience of readers. In turn we will welcome sug­ gestions for the improvement of our magazine to meet in so far as possible the interest of our readers.

Among the accessions of the past three months there are a number of special interest. From Peter Folger house on Center Street, some very fine relics have been given by Mrs. Rupert Folger which include, a butler's buffet made for "Ma" Folger (Mrs. Uriah) which has been placed in the "1800 House"; a fine brass lantern with etched glass chimney; an old Terry clock with wooden works; framed silhouettes of Mr. and Mrs. Uriah Folger and many other items.

We received two Commercial Wharf account books dated 18331840 and 1852-1855, a donation from Landon Barnes, a former owner of the Wharf.

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HISTORIC NANTUCKET

From Dr. and Mrs. William E. Gardner we have received a collection of lady's clothing including quilted petticoats and other garments. Also a Journal kept by Jared Tracy of a voyage on the Bark "Oak", 1869-71.

Miss Ruth Haviland Sutton has presented five pastel portraits of former Nantucketers which the Association has had suitably framed. These portraits are of Wallace N. Adams, Miss Annie Alden Folger, George A. Grant, Mitchell Ray, and William "Billy" Russell. It is planned to display these at the Historical Museum.

Three very fine framed drawings done in Gouache tempora by Miss Margaretta Hinchman bequeathed by her to the Association have been received. They are the original drawings of illustrations in "Early ,Settlers of Nantucket" by Mrs. Lydia Hinchman.

The jaw pan of a whale, beautifully etched to show three ships fully rigged, has come to us through an exchange, arranged through the interest and suggestion of one of our members, Mr. David Gray. This unusual and outstanding collector's piece of scrimshaw owned by Mr. Gray was found by his father in an old Coffin house in 'Sconset. It measures approximately 42 inches in length and 14 inches at the widest point. The Association is not only fortunate but to be congratulated in having obtained posses­ sion of such an outstanding example of "The Folk Art of the American Whaleman" which, without doubt, will be the subject of much interest and comment when displayed next season. It is planned to exhibit it in a special case which is being donated by Mr. Everett U. Crosby, a Vice-President of our Association.

More of Moses Joy's finely wrought minute silver spoons have been given to us by Mr. Norman Joy Greene. They are contained in two capsules, a tiny incandescent bulb, two cherry stones, and a heart-shaped locket.

Many other interesting items have been purchased or donated which prompts us to say to all members, "Please do not throw away old relics or papers without first consulting our Custodian of Collections to see if they have historic value or interest."

34

Annual Winter Gam The Annual Winter Gam is scheduled to be held Friday even­ ing February 17, 1956, at 7:30 p.m. at the Maria Mitchell Library on Vestal Street. It is planned to limit the gam to a certain period of years, still to be selected, and to ask various members to prepare in advance subjects for presentation, the procedure followed a number of years ago with outstanding success. Mr. George W. Jones has agreed to act as chairman, a good omen for an interest­ ing and successful gam. Further news of the gam will be circulated through the local press as soon as the plans are finally completed but remember the date, Friday evening February 17, 1956.

Admissions Record Historical Museum and Friends Meeting House Old Mill Oldest House Whaling Museum Old Jail 1800 House Total

1955-56

1954-55

2,728 2,704 4,770 15,631 3,313 1,218

3,010 3,245 4,933 15,042 2,481 1,391

30,364

30,102

This past summer hurricanes and floods wrecked the gateway on the mainland to Nantucket. Although the Island escaped any real damage, travel to the Island was curtailed which, from midAugust on, was reflected in our admissions. The Whaling Museum and the Old Jail showed gratifying increases for the season which placed our total admissions for the current year ahead of its predecessor.

35

Whaling Museum Reconstruction A Progress Report

BY THE WHALING MUSEUM COMMITTEE

Reconstruction work, despite the unusual cold and wet weather, is progressing'. Most of the east brick wall repointing has been completed. The South Seas room has been completely dismantled and the restoration of walls and ceiling is in progress.

The job of replacing the second floor flooring, timbers and supports was started in Sanderson Hall. The opinion that a major reconstruction job was involved and had to be completed before the Museum could be reopened was confirmed for it was found that all flooring, cross timbers and supporting columns had to be replaced. This necessitated removing all floor exhibits to the front of the building for storage, which included the dismantling of Sankaty Light. The try works could not be moved and to save them a foundation of concrete blocks had to be built.

The pictures on the opposite page show, in part, the work in progress. The east side of the floor has been partially replaced, the old timbers and supporting columns are being removed but no picture can present the biggest job in hand, that of replacing the supporting timbers and building foundations under the try works, the spermaceti press, and Sankaty Light (removed prior to these pictures being taken), and all the temporary supporting jacks and timbers.

Many loyal members have contributed generously to the "Re­ construction Fund" but even so we do not have in hand as yet sufficient funds to cover the cost of the work which must be com­ pleted before the Museum can be reopened to the public. A donation to this fund is an allowable Federal Income Tax deduction, so with the beginning of the New Year members are asked to give the Whaling Museum a PREFERRED position on their donation list for 1956.

The help of every member is needed to finance this work, the urgency of which proved far greater even than was predictable and which must be completed to save the greatest single drawing asset of all Nantucket Island's historic exhibits.

37

"Proud Island Epic" Historical Cyclorama Planned for Summer Performance

Plans are in the making for the production of an historical play about Nantucket in July and August. This play, "Proud Island Epic", will be a cyclorama of incidents from Indian days to the advent of summer visitors. Written and compiled by Margaret Georgia Fawcett it will include episodes culled from the plays by Miss Fawcett and R. D. Wilson produced in the 1940's at the Straight Wharf Theatre.

The play is to be tried out first in April or May, so rehearsals will begin in February or March but preliminary plans for scenery, costumes and the music background are now being worked out.

Mr. J. M. Dixon, actor and former director of plays at Bennington Village, will be co-director with Miss Fawcett. Mrs. Frances Page, formerly associated with the Denver Community Symphony, is in charge of the music which is an integral part of the production and includes a chorus and a quartet for the singing of sea chanties. The costuming will be supervised by Mrs. Helen Wyeth, with Miss Louise Emerson of Providence and Nantucket, as artistic advisor.

Mrs. Grace Klingelfuss who has encouraged this ambitious idea of a festival since its inception, is acting as business manager.

This is to be a Nantucket project to promote interest in the island's illustrious past and to provide entertainment for summer visitors who have genuine love of the island and a real appreciation of America's beginnings. Similar projects in other parts of the country have been successful in drawing appreciative audiences.

Here is a project which offers ample opportunity in its var­ ious branches of work for many islanders and visitors to lend a helping hand. Believing that the proposed plan is in line with the purposes of the Historic Association, the Council has agreed that the Association will act as Sponsor in co-operation with several Island Civic Organizations provided that the plans for the project, when finally formulated, meet with the approval of these organizations. >

38

Keziah Coffin Fanning's Diary (Continued)

BY NANCY S. ADAMS

1783 Jan. 1—Reuben Joy died to-day.

Jan. 8—Jones's eldest daughter died last night of a consumption.

Jones lives at Porcermer. William Hussey's house. Was buried at Polpis.

Jan. 15—Reuben Fitch arrived yesterday from Lurzan (,) with a load of salt. John Elkins in the Copper Bottom with a load of sugar, molasses, etc.

Jan. 11—Edward Allen came here to-day to build a bee house.

Feb. 11—Persilla Coleman came in yesterday from Carolina. Lost Wm. Wharton off his deck last Thursday forenoon. Mrs. Butler Folger and myself rode down on the north wharf to see Dr. Winship's brig that he is bound to Europe in.

Feb. 18—Doctor Swift & Dolly Delano married by Mr. Shaw.

Feb. 22—Cos. Jethro with his family moved this afternoon to town, quitted Quaise. One House from the Cape with his family have taken Coz. Jethro's place. Silv. Coffin & son, 11 years old and one Sheffield & Irons from New York were drowned this week in going from their vessell ashore in Wood's Hole harbor, the boat was found and the boy. He was brought home yesterday, buried to-day (Silv. body brought home on the 26th.)

Feb. 24 News came from Providence to-day that Uriah Gardnei was drowned in Philadelphia River, going ashore in his boat.

March 6 Mr. Elderkin (a Connecticut man) college mate of Mr. Fanning came here and dined with us to-day.

March 10—Stopt into Mr. Shaw's, he has bought Wm. Rotch's house to the south of this street.

March 21—Nathaniel Macy died this morn.

March 24—McFarlen keeps a singing school.

March 29 P.F. says that my dear Mama went off to-day about 11 o'clock (with Seth Barker) to Hiannis—Levo Barlow has sued

39

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

my father and mother in the sum of 250 L.M. (?) to Barnstable Court which sets next Tuesday. Levi Barlow last fall seized a boat on the Cape belonging to Daniel Reed & others, under pretense of her being bound to Penobscot. Silv. Coffin & one Bragg of the Cape were belonging to the vessel after Barlow seized her, they ran off with her to some Eastern Port. Now Barlow says that my Father alias Mother owned half the boat & that she ran away with her for which he has sued for the sum above. "My Mother being impowered, has gone off to answer to the case, my Mother positively denies having any concern in the boat.

April 2—News in town place America allowed to be independent etc. Everything that the Rebels can wish allowed them.

April 5—My Mother and Barlow agreed to carry the case to Su­ perior Court. (Later) Mrs. Coffin returned. By mutual agreement case carried to Superior Court.

April 14—Benjamin Barney, Sr., died to-day.

April 15—The declaration of Peace from the Congress came to-day to the Island. America allowed independence etc.

April 27—Samuel Starbuck arrived to-day in a brig from Phila­ delphia.

April 27—Barnabus Swain arrived to-day from — with a load of molasses etc. The famous Col(?) Capt (?) Freeman, Dimick & Barlow came this eve to the Island, their business is not known.

April 30—At 4 o'clock Mrs. Butler was delivered of a daughter.

May 4—Barnabus Briggs' wife died this morn & Eliza Moores, Frances Moores daughter, 14 years old.

May 10—Wm. Clasby's wife had a son born this morn.

May 11—Wm Rotch came in last Monday from New York. Love Gelston, Roland's wife had a daughter born this day.

May 14—Mrs. Coffin gone to court at Barnstable.

May 17—Micah Coffin died this forenoon.

May 20—Nathaniel Coleman (Public Speaker) died to-day.

May 28—Elizabeth Neazer (Tom Neazer's daughter) 6 yrs old died to-day.

KEZIAH COFFIN FANNING'S DIARY

40

May 30—Reuben Starbuck's wife, Peter Folger's daughter died to-day.

June 1—Mrs. Coffin returned from Court. Case postponed.

June 6—Mrs. Coffin gone to New York (had shellclams (round) called Quohogs.

June 16—Severe tempest, lightning struck George Folger, Jr's, house, not one hurt, damaged the clock and tore off some of the shingles—Shearing time.

June 27—Mr. Fanning sailed with Jonathan Jenkins for New York.

June 29—Gideon Worth came into the harbor yesterday from East with a load of lumber, sailed this afternoon for N. York, in whom went Mr. Falen.

July 7—Spencer arrived from N. York, says Mama has been innoculated for small pox.

July 8—Jenkins & Pinkham that went to N. York with Mr. Fan­ ning arrived to-day. Mr. F. writes that Mrs. Coffin is getting finely over the small pox. Uriah Bunker arrived from W. Indies, buried Thompson in W. I., he sickened & died there. Thomas Hussey came home after almost 2 years absence.

July 14—Gardner, a boy of 6 or 7 yrs old (son of Reuben deceased) was drowned in the dock to-day.

July 18—Robert Hussey departed this life 3 o'clock, was taken

poorly last Saturday, died of Bilious Fever, has left five children.

July 23—Christopher Hussey's wife was brought to bed this eve.

Aug. 6—Lydia Hussey, Christopher's wife, died this day in child bed.

Aug. 20—Gershom Cathcart's wife departed this life this after­ noon. She was delivered last Sunday night of a son & has been very ill ever since.

Aug. 24 Paul, negro came in from whaling last Friday with G. Clark, brought 140 bbls. was gone twelve or thirteen weeks.

Sept. 8—Lydia Johnson, Mrs. Johnson's youngest child died yes­ terday. Eliza Myrick, daughter of Andrew, deceased, died on the 12th. Between 20 or 30 years old.

41

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

Sept. 27—Mr. Farlan came in yesterday in a schooner from E. bound to New York. Gid Worth also from E. to New York.

Oct. 2—John Hussey (Stephen's Son) & Lydia Barnard (Christo­ pher's daughter) were married in meeting to-day.

Oct. 7—Superior Court sits to-day, first time for 8 years, there has been any Court of Justice here. Stephen Hussey, George Gardner & Mr. Hammatt, chief justice.

Oct. 26—Shubael Coffin came to the Bar yesterday from London several of our Nantucket young men with him that have been gone some time. Albert Hussey is come he has been from home 9 years.

Nov. 2—Mrs. Coffin returned from N. York unsuccessful in laws.

Nov. 3—David Allen & Juda Meader married at Polpis this eve

by Josiah Coffin.

Nov. 14—Judith Coffin had a daughter born to-day.

Nov. 21—McFarland came in sailed 2 weeks ago for St. John's saw no land till they saw the south side, no serious damage. Storm stove fore places so that they could not cook for more than a week.

Dec. 17—Barclay (Capt. Barclay Fanning of the Royal No. Caro­ lina Volunteers W.) came up at noon and says his being here has caused great uneasiness among some of the inhabitants, inasmuch that a number have complained to the Chief Justice's to have him taken and imprisoned. After dinner Mr. Fanning went to town to know the rights of the matter. He returned in the evening and says that about 30 in number have complained to the Chief Jus­ tice's that a certain Barclay Fanning has for some time lurked in or about this place, contrary to the laws of the State and request that the Justices will take cognizance of the same. The complaint is signed by three only viz: Alex. Coffin, Timo. Coleman and Ben Bunker. Mr. S. Hussey and G. Gardner have signed a warrant to take him up, but have not given it to the Sheriff or Constable.

Mr. Fanning met them in Town; They pretend to be averse to any such measures, and that they have and will suppress it & quiet the complaints; they also engage that they will not send for him in any but a friendly way. Mr. Fanning has engaged on his part that he will appear with his brother whenever he is called for.

How intolerable such things are, a set of greater rascals is not to be met with on this side of the Globe.

KEZIAH COFFIN FANNING'S DIARY

42

Dec. 17—Trouble about Barclay Fanning. Alexander Coffin, Timo.

Coleman & Ben Bunker make complaint to the Justices regarding him. Justices Hussey & Gardner issue a warrant, but do not deliver it. B. F. was formerly on a British frigate and was an English sub­ ject.

Dec. 20—Mr. Fanning received a billet from Hammatt requesting that he with his brother would appear at Pease's at 2 o'clock, P.M. where the Justices would be etc. They immediately went. After dark Mr. Fanning and his brother came up. They met the three Justices viz. Hussey, Hammatt and Gardner, at Pease's. They had many things to say. They appear to be friendly, say they do not wish to molest Barclay, but there is a party here that insists on his being imprisoned, or at least to leave the Island immediately.

They on the whole concluded on nothing and he returned again.

Dec. 25—Mrs. Kezia Coffin 60 to-day.

(Note: Mrs. Kezia Coffin born Oct. 9, 1723, according to N. E. Hist. & Gen. Register 16; 274)

Dec. 25—A scow cast away on East end this P.M. Crew saved, vessel bilged, from W. I. for Boston belonged in London, loaded with rum and wine—a few casks washed ashore & were saved.

Dec. 27—Mr. & Mrs. Coffin in trouble because of a law suit. House & goods seized on execution. (Wild rabbits on Great Point) Dec. 27—Directly after dinner Blackler Ohrm came up to tell us that the sheriff was turning Father and Mother forceably out of their house. Last Spring Jno. Slocum and Charles Handy of New­ port, sued my Father for $700 which my Mother had taken up to carry on business for that devilish McCauley Company, in New York. They got judgment against Father last Nov. Court and execution came this week. Mr. Fanning went immediately up town and returned after dusk. He says that my Mother refused going out of the house. The sheriff and Mathew & Is. Barnard, Peter Macy, etc. took her up in her chair and carried her out of the house and set her in the street. My Father went out. Mr. Fanning went to my Father's door and demanded entrance to take out his papers, goods etc. but those within refused him entrance. He saw Mathew & Is. Barnard and a number of others, sitting around the front room fire. The house and settlement is valued at £670 law­ ful money. O! that Demon of a Timothy Folger, he was the first cause of all our trouble. I pray that I may seek vengeance all my

43

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

life. Who could once have thought all this. No family I am certain was ever treated as ours are and have been. I would not wish to enjoy one sixpence of my Father's estate if he owes money, but to have things taken hold of and torn away in the manner they are, is more than flesh and blood can or ought to bear. I am fearful that my beloved parents will lie in the street, although I believe it is the wish of many, but Heaven grant their wishes may be abortive! {To be continued)

44

Membership Report NANCY S. ADAMS, CHAIRMAN

In reviewing past records of those who are today members of our Association we find there are living only seven members who belonged fifty years ago, in 1905. We extend our greetings to these faithful members: Mrs. Florence N. Bennett Anderson Mrs. C. Warren Austin Sister Alice Beebe Miss Hannah

Miss Grace Brown Gardner Mrs. Grace Elkins Hutaff Miss Elizabeth M. Blackburn Hatch

We welcome 13 new annual active members namely: Mrs. Robert Anderson Mr. Manuel Macedo, Jr. Miss Cornelia Anderson Mrs. Byron E. Pease Mr. Anthony Huff Cordesman Miss Margaret Price Mrs. Edward H. Evans Mrs. R. Aileen Reilly Mr. John Jackson Gardner Mrs. Jessamine A. Ronan Mrs. Beverly Greene Miss Elsie G. Sloan Mrs. George H. Weyermuller

It is with sorrow we report the loss through death of nine members, two of whom were life members and through resigna­ tions, the loss of two members, namely: Deceased Members Mr. Herbert Warren Folger Mr. John E. Long Mr. Erwin R. Hilts Mrs. Edward Mills Mrs. Albert Lavoie Miss Harriet R. Prosser Mr. Paul Levine Mr. Edward F. Sanderson (Life) Mrs. Gilbert Verney (Life) Resignations Miss Theresa Gordon Folger

Mrs. P. F. Corning

Our membership on December 31, 1955, numbered 1072, di­ vided as follows: Life Members 148 Annual Sustaining 62 Annual Active 862

45

In Memoriam Edward F. Sanderson The Association records with sorrow the loss of one of its most valued Life Members and one of the earliest benefactors of its Whaling Museum, Edward F. Sanderson, who died October 31, 1955, at his home in Quidnet.

Born in Cleveland, Ohio, March 16, 1874, the son of Frederick Milton and Harriet P. Sanderson, he graduated from Amherst College in 1896 and received the degree of Bachelor of Divinity from Hartford Theological Seminary in 1899 and was ordained to the Ministry June 27, 1889. During his various pastorates he was associated with many welfare, charitable, religious, and civic organizations.

In the early 1920's he purchased Moors End on Pleasant Street.

In renovating and furnishing the mansion he became interested in the island's history as a whaling port which led him to collect implements and material relating to whaling. What started to be a simple hobby developed into one of the finest collections of whaling material in the country. Feeling that it should be estab­ lished as a permanent collection and that Nantucket, with its whaling history was the place it should be kept, he presented the collection to our Association.

The old Hadwen and Barney candle house was offered for sale at the same time, but the Association had no funds to purchase it to house the collection. Mr. Sanderson purchased the building and surrounding grounds, holding it for the Association for two years, while President William H. Macy, the Council and others raised the funds to take over the property. Today this collection, housed in Sanderson Hall, is the core of the collections in the Whaling Museum which attracts more visitors each summer than any other single exhibit on the Island.

In the passing of Mr. Sanderson, the Association suffered the loss of a principal benefactor, a loyal friend and a life member.

46

Officers 1955 - 1956

President Mrs. Walton H. Adams

Vice Presidents Howard U. Chase Burnham N. Dell George W. Jones

Everett U. Crosby Miss Grace Brown Gardner W. Ripley Nelson

Secretary-Treasurer

Auditor

Miss Ethel Anderson

Ormonde F. Ingall

Councillors Mrs. Walton H. Adams, Chairman Term Expiree

Mrs. Lewis S. Edgarton John W. Grout Earl S. Ray James A. Norcross Mrs. Joseph King Stokeley W. Morgan Mrs. Cyril C. Ross Albert Egan, Jr

1956 1956 1957 1957 1958 1958 1959 1959

Custodian of Collections Mrs. Walton H. Adams

Finance Committee W. Ripley Nelson, Chairman Earl S. Ray

Howard U. Chase

Membership Committee Mrs. Walton H. Adams, Chairman

Historic Nantucket W. Ripley Nelson, Editor Burnham N. Dell

Miss Helen L. Whnslow

Associate Editor

Associate Editor

Publicity Committee Stokeley W. Morgan, Chairman

The Inquirer and Mirror Press