river, situated about 100 yards from the white house on the beach,
cut as much wood as was necessary. At 4 p. m. (Thursday afternoon)
an officer came on board with the Governor’s compliments, and
mentioned that he would supply us with every article we wanted as
soon as possible, and send them on board in canoes without obliging
us to beat up to the city. Sent a note expressive of our thanks on
the occasion. At 9 a. m. the Commander and clerk again visited his
Excellency Don Raymond da Cunha Matos and were received as yesterday
with great politeness and civility. It being a great holiday they
attended church, (N. B. The priests, monks and whole congregation
were mulattoes or blacks) saw a procession civil and military
composed of the principal inhabitants, with two bands of music, and
the Virgin Mary, parading the streets. Dined with the Governor,
had a most excellent dinner, with all kinds of vegetables, fruits,
sweetmeats, liquors and wines; remained on shore the rest of the day
as it came on to rain very heavy. The Governor having sent on board
every article we wanted, paid him the amount in cloth and gold, bade
him and the Fiscal adieu, returned on board, and at 11 p. m. weighed
anchor and stood out to sea with a fair wind.[55]St. Thomas’ is a
beautiful, fertile island, producing coffee in great abundance and
of a superior quality; also corn, spices, vegetables and fruits of
every description, cattle and other livestock, turtle, fish, etc.
The town is in the form of a half moon, is situated at the head of a
fine bay, and may contain three hundred houses, interspersed among
gardens, plantain groves and coffee trees. Most of the buildings are
small, many of them in ruins, and the remainder by no means elegant.
The fort, or castle, as you enter the bay on the left hand mounts 40
pieces of cannon, with a garrison of 100 men. The Governor informed
us he had information of two small English brigs loading in the
Gaboon, besides the ship mentioned yesterday which he understood was
now at the Cameroons. Upon the whole the Commander of the _Yankee_
was much gratified with his reception at St. Thomas’, and pleased
to find these officers so favorably disposed toward the American
government.
77th Day Saturday 2d Jan.
.... Nothing remarkable. Invalids all recovered. Lat. Obs. 16′ N.
78th Day Sunday 3d Jan.
.... Nothing remarkable. Lieut. Vinson and Asa Switcher incapable
of duty. John Carter, James Holden, J. C. Lindegard, and several
indisposed with slight complaints. Lat. Obs. 6′ South.
79th Day Monday 4th Jan.
.... Nothing remarkable.... Excessively hot, Thermometer 90° at
midnight, being on the Line. Lat. Obs. 4′ North.
80th Day Tuesday 5th Jan.
.... At 7 p. m. came to anchor at the mouth of the Gaboon River in
ten fathoms of water.... Immediately piped for volunteers to man the
barge and explore the river to discover any strange sails. Master
Snow appointed to command the expedition, and 21 brave fellows
selected to accompany him. They were all completely armed and
supplied with every article necessary for their night campaign. At 20
m. past 7 P. M. the barge left the _Yankee_ with the best wishes of
their remaining companions for their success and safe return. During
the night calm and intolerably hot. At 9 a. m. discovered two large
boats in shore rowing toward us full of men. Piped all hands to
Quarters, cleared for action and got a spring on the cable. Shortly
after two African princes came on board, who informed us there was a
small Portuguese schooner loading with slaves high up the river, and
that an English Cutter arrived three days ago at King Glas’ Town,
near the mouth of the river. From their description of the vessel,
Captain and cargo we were clearly convinced that this Cutter was no
other than our prize the _Alder_, Capt. Salsberry. Capt. S. passed
as an English vessel and told the natives he had been fired at by
a Portuguese ship at Rio Pungus, and that one shot stove his boat;
that he had been struck by lightning during a tornado, which blew
up his quarter deck and killed the former captain and five seamen.
This ingenious deception does much credit to our Prize-Master. These
Africans further told us that the two brigs we heard of at St.
Thomas’ sailed with valuable cargoes two weeks ago, and that the
ship had not arrived. At meridian the barge returned on board and
Master Snow informed us that they had proceeded up the river at least
twelve leagues, that they saw no English vessels, but heard of the
Portuguese schooner; that on their return they boarded the cutter
mentioned above and found her to be really our prize the _Alder_.
Capt. Salisberry stated he had met a great deal of bad weather and
lost some spars, but saw no enemy. He arrived in the river five
days since, was making a rapid and profitable trade for ivory, wax,
skins and wood, and expected to sail in about a week for America.
Himself and crew were in good health. Surgeon’s list. Lieut. Vinson,
James Holden, J. C. Lindegard recovered, Carter nearly recovered and
Switcher better. Lat. Obs. 37′ N.
81st day ... Wednesday 6th Jan.
At meridian weighed anchor and stood out of the Gaboon River bound
down the coast.... Nothing remarkable. Lat. Obs. 18′ S.
82d Day Thursday 7th Jan.
.... Nothing remarkable.... No observation.
83d Day Friday 8th Jan.
During these 24 hours (as usual) variable winds, calms, squalls,
thunder, lightning and heavy rain. All hands employed about ship’s
duty presenting a very busy and amusing scene. Lat. Obs. 31′ S.
84th Day Saturday 9th Jan.
.... All sail set, bound to Annabona for supply, and from thence to
the Island of St. Helena, one of our cruising stations. Long. from
Lunar Obs. at 3 o’clock p. m. 8°40′--Lat. Obs. 1°22′ S.
85th Day Sunday 10th Jan.
Annabona bearing W. N. W. 3 leagues. At 5 p. m. saw the land 2
points on the lee bow. ¼ past 5 discovered a sail 4 points on the
weather bow, took in studding-sails and luffed up close on a wind in
chace.... At 10 p. m. discovered by the help of our night glasses
that the chace was a brig standing to the westward. Shortened sail
and kept in company during the night. At daylight made all sail to
come up with the chace. Observed she had hove to; hoisted English
colours & showed 7 ports on a side. Piped all hands to quarters
and cleared for action. At 7 a. m. came alongside and ordered her
to strike her colours, which she did accordingly. Sent the barge
on board and found our prize to be the English Brig _Thames_, late
Francis Toole Master, 171 tons burthen, mounting 8 carriage guns
(4-12 lbs & 4 long nines) with small arms, ammunition, etc. from
Mayjumba, coast of Africa, bound to London, navigated by 14 persons,
with a cargo of camwood, some goods and ivory. Took the prisoners on
board the _Yankee_, and sent Capt. George Eddy as Prize-Master, with
N. M. Slocum and 8 seamen to navigate said vessel to America. Gave
said Prize-Master the vessel’s papers, his Commission, Instructions,
Letter to the Owners etc. and then bade him farewell. The _Thames_ is
copper-bottomed, thoroughly repaired, and carries a large cargo. This
vessel and cargo may be reasonably estimated at $25,000.
N. B. On the very day and hour of our capturing the _Thames_ our
Commander was born--27 years ago.
86th Day Monday 11th Jan.
At 5 p. m. came to anchor on the north side of the Island of Annabona
in 7 fathoms water, sandy bottom, opposite a small village distant
about a mile from the shore.... Soon after we came to, the black
Governor and his mate came on board. We easily obtained permission to
water, wood etc.... Having finished our trade and filled our water
at 20 m before 12 a. m. we got under weigh.... This island is 7 or
8 leagues in circumference and is remarkable for a lofty mountain
covered with orange, lime and cocoanut trees. It has a fertile and
beautiful appearance.
_It is with deep regret_ that the Commander of the _Yankee_ feels it
his duty in justice to himself, his Officers and his crew, to make
the following entry in his Journal, relative to the conduct of one
of his officers.--My Second Lieutenant John H. Vinson, has never,
in my opinion, displayed either seamanship, judgment or courage
during our cruise. He appeared to be much intoxicated on the night of
the partial engagement with His Majesty’s Schooner _St. Jago_, and
behaved with great impropriety. During the skirmish with the _Alder_
he was particularly negligent in not extinguishing the flames when
our bulwarks were on fire. And during the long engagement with the
_Andalusia_ he certainly did not manifest either activity or courage.
This officer is guilty of one offence which would subject him even to
capital punishment--viz--_sleeping on his watch_. The night after we
captured the _Fly_, when we had a number of prisoners on board, and
many of our crew had got drunk on board the prize, and were extremely
riotous, Lieut. Vinson was himself much intoxicated, or to speak
plainly _dead drunk_, and slept in his watch in presence of myself,
my officers, and the whole crew. He was guilty of the same offence
on the 5th January when we lay at the Gaboon, and also last night
when we had 14 prisoners on board, and were anchored on a savage
coast. This offence of getting drunk and sleeping on a watch is of a
very serious and alarming nature, endangering both the safety of the
vessel and the lives of all on board. His conduct subjects him to a
court martial which will certainly convince him of his errors.
87th Day Tuesday 12th Jan.
.... At 4 p. m. exercised all hands at quarters; after which piped
all hands to muster and found our crew now consisted of 71 men....
Lat. Obs. 1°25′ S.
88th Day Wednesday 13th Jan.
.... John Carter recovered and struck off the Surgeon’s list. No
invalids. Nothing worthy of remark. Lat. Obs. 1°53′ S.
89th Day Thursday 14th Jan.
.... Nothing remarkable.... Lat. Obs. 2°39′ S. No invalids.
90th Day Friday 14th Jan.
.... Lat. Obs. 3°16′ S.... _We have now_ been at sea 3 months,
one half of our cruise, and 97 days from Bristol where our cruise
commenced. During this time we have taken 6 prizes, measuring 685
tons, mounting 34 carriage guns, 525 stand of arms, and 150 prisoners.
91st Day Saturday 16th Jan.
.... Nothing remarkable.--Lat. Obs. 4°23′.
92d Day Sunday 17th Jan.
.... All hands in excellent health. Being Saturday (Sunday) night all
hands enjoyed the jubilee and drank to their sweethearts and wives.
Our prisoners are mostly Irishmen and seem to be quiet and well
disposed. Lat. Obs. 5°55′.
93d Day Monday 18th Jan.
.... Nothing remarkable. Lat. Obs. 6°33′ S.
94th Day Tuesday 19th Jan.
.... Nothing remarkable. Lat. Obs. 7°13′ S.
95th Day Wednesday 20th Jan.
.... Nothing remarkable. Lat. Obs. 7°53′ S.
96th Day Thursday 21st Jan.
At ¼ Past 5 p. m. came to anchor off the N. W. end of Ascension
Island.... Sent the barge on shore for the purpose of taking turtle
during the night.... At 8 a. m. the barge returned on board with a
fine large turtle, weighing at least 400 lbs., and containing several
thousand eggs--the only one seen on the beach during the night.
At 9 a. m. again dispatched the barge and Capt. Wilson went on
shore in the jolly-boat, to endeavor to procure more turtle. Wrote
a letter, or memorandum, mentioning the arrival of the Privateer
_Yankee_ at this island; her successful cruise, number of captures,
guns, prisoners, value, etc.; also the declaration of war against
England, and its principal events;--which letter we directed to any
American captains who might hereafter touch at this island. This
letter was deposited among the rocks, being anchored in a bottle,
where we observed a number of names engraved, particularly the
following “Young Dickenson, J. W. Costa, 1813,” and “The Crescent
Leach, 1812.” ½ past 11 a. m. the boats returned on board without
any success. The officers and seamen caught a great number of fish,
and killed a quantity of birds--neither fit to eat. The Island of
Ascension is 3 leagues in length and 2 in breadth. It is composed
of several hills or hummocks covered with a reddish earth, and has
a very rugged and craggy appearance. It was evidently thrown up by
some convulsion of nature. It is not inhabited and produces neither
tree, fruit or vegetable--nay not even fresh water. There are some
miserable lean wild goats and innumerable ship rats. The island is
principally remarkable for the vast quantity of turtle which resort
here to deposit their eggs during certain months of the year. These
turtle are easily taken during the night by concealing yourself on
the beach, rushing suddenly upon them when they come on shore, and
capsizing them. They are said to be of the finest and most delicious
kind. Joseph Anthony, coxswain of the barge, was very badly bruised
when she capsized in the surf, and Zep. Andrews cut his hand very
severely in butchering the turtle. It is singular that our crew
receive more wounds from their own negligence than the shot of the
enemy. Ascension--7°56′ South Lat. 13°54′ West Long.[56]
97th Day Friday 22d Jan.
The officers and company feasted most luxuriously on the fine turtle
they caught the preceding night.... Caught another large turtle
during the night. At 7 a. m. got in the barge, weighed anchor, and
stood out to sea.... Anthony and Andrews much better. Lat. Obs.
7°53′. Variation by a correct Amplitude taken while at anchor in
Ascension Roads 15°12′ W.
98th Day Saturday 23d Jan.
.... The Surgeon performed a surgical operation on James Anthony,
by cutting out a wen or protuberance on his right cheek. Dr. Miller
seems to be quite proficient in the use of the knife and lancet. Lat.
Obs. 8° S.
99th Day Sunday 24th Jan.
.... Killed our large turtle and all hands had a Sunday feast. It was
superexcellent. No invalids. Lat. Obs. 8° S.
100th Day Monday 25th Jan.
.... Nothing remarkable. Lat. Obs. 8°15′ S.
101st Day Tuesday 26th Jan.
At 9 a. m. piped all hands to Vendue and sold a quantity of prize
goods, viz, shirts, cloth, linen, razors, knives, cloaks, flannel,
etc. etc. to the officers and crew to furnish them with clothes for
their cruise and when they arrive on a winter’s coast. Lat. 8°6′ S.
102d Day Wednesday 27th Jan.
.... Nothing worthy of remark. Lat. Obs. 7°53′ S. Long. Lunar 29°35′
W.
103d Day Thursday 28th Jan.
.... Lat. Obs. 7°52′ S. Lunar Obs. 32°7′ W.
104th Day Friday 29th Jan.
.... Nothing remarkable. Lat. Obs. 8°8′.
105th Day Saturday 30th Jan.
.... 7 a. m. saw several small Portuguese fishing boats, called
Jangars. ½ past 7 a. m. made the land bearing right ahead, distant
7 or 8 leagues. The land appeared low, with a number of towers or
churches on the coast, and the town of Olinde situated on the side
of a hill, making a beautiful appearance. 9 a. m. discovered several
large vessels at anchor in the harbour of Pernambuco. 11 a. m. spoke
a Portuguese schooner just out of Pernambuco, bound to windward;
informed us there were no English men of war on the coast--that there
were three large British ships in harbour, loading, and two American
schooners laid up without cargoes. They had heard of no American
privateers on this station. 11 a. m. jibed ship in chace of a sail
distant 4 or 5 miles.... Lat. Obs. 8°12′.
106th Day Sunday 31st Jan.
Pernambuco bearing N. W. distant 8 or 10 leagues. At 1 p. m. piped
all hands to quarters, ran down under the lee of a large armed
English brig, pierced for 16 guns, and mounting 8. When within
pistol shot ordered her to strike her colours--the reply was “We
are all ready”--and hesitated. Capt. Wilson again ordered him to
lower his flag and quit the deck or he would fire into him. The
reply was “Surely you are joking.” Our Commander still ordered his
men not to fire, and a third time ordered him to strike instantly,
which he did with great reluctance. Sent our boat on board and found
our prize to be the large armed English Brig called the _Harriott
and Matilda_ of Maryport, Captain John Inman, burthen 262 tons,
copper-bottomed, mounting 8 carriage guns--6 twelve and 2 eighteen
pound cannonades, from Cork bound to Pernambuco, with a cargo of
salt, porter, iron, drygoods, earthenware, butter, cheese, potatoes
etc. etc. The _Harriott and Matilda_ was captured from the Danes in
1808, sails well, and is a fine vessel. The vessel and cargo may be
reasonably valued at $27,000. Took the prisoners on board and beat
off the land during the night. At 7 p. m. sent 18 prisoners ashore
in our barge, which we gave them, with all their clothes, baggage, a
compass, water, provisions etc. being at this time within 7 leagues
of Pernambuco. During the latter part of these 24 hours all hands
employed in taking out the following articles from the prize, viz--16
hampers cheese, 56 do Irish potatoes, 20 kegs of butter, 6 casks
bottled porter, 20 gallons Rum, and 31 bales of fine merchandise. The
_Harriott and Matilda_ sailed from Cork under convoy of the _Frolic_
(_Cherub?_) sloop of war, and parted from him three days before. The
convoy consisted of 6 East Indiamen, and several others bound to Rio
Janeiro. It is worthy of remark that the _Yankee_ ran from Ascension
to Cape St. Augustine, a distance of 1200 miles, in 7½ days--fresh
trades, pleasant weather, a smooth sea, and all sails set, scarcely
ever moving tack or sheet. Lat. Obs. 8°29′.
107th Day Monday 1st Feb.
All hands employed in sending away the prize. Made out Commission,
Letter of Instructions, wrote a letter to the owners, and gave the
ship’s papers to the Prize-Master, Richard M. Coit, with a crew of 12
men. At 4 p. m. gave our prize three cheers and bade her adieu. At 9
a. m. having taken the paroles of all the prisoners, we gave Capts.
Toole and Inman the long boat of the prize, supplied them with every
necessary article, and being within 6 leagues of Pernambuco, they
went on shore. Capt. Toole had been 21 days a prisoner and behaved
very well during the whole time. 10 a. m. saw a sail bearing S. E. at
a great distance. Lat. Obs. 8°4′ S.
108th Day Tuesday 2d Feb.
At 1 p. m. discovered a sail on the lee bow at a great distance.
At 3 p. m. having approached within 2½ miles of the sail mentioned
in yesterday’s journal made her out to be an English sloop of war
in disguise. Immediately up helm, set staysails, and bore away N.
b E. The enemy did the same and set all sail, showing a cloud of
canvas. We were glad to observe that we soon altered his bearings,
& at sundown left him astern, distant about 3 or 4 leagues.... On
mustering the crew find we have 62 persons on board, including boys
and negroes, also 3 prisoners. Lat. Obs. 8°14′ S.
109th Day Wednesday 3d Feb.
.... ½ after 5 p. m. saw several sails, made all sail in chace, but
soon discovered them to be Jangars, or fishing boats. Lat. 7°53′.
110th Day Thursday 4th Feb.
At 3 p. m. having run down opposite Pernambuco ... hoisted the
American pendant and colours, and hauled up close on the wind, bound
to Fernando Noronha for a supply of water. Lat. Obs. 9°17′ S.
111th Day Friday 5th Feb.
.... Lat. Obs. 7°29′ S.
112th Day Saturday 6th Feb.
.... Lat. Obs. 5°56′.--Long. Lunar 33°50′.
113th Day Sunday 7th Feb.
At ½ past 5 a. m. the Island of Fernando Noronha--½ past 7 saw a sail
2 points under the lee bow. Made all sail in chace. At ½ past 10 a.
m. came up with the chace and found her to be our prize the _Alder_,
Salisberry Master, being the second time we have spoken him. Sent for
Capt. Salisberry on board, who informed us that he left the Gaboon
on the 11th ult.--that he has seen no sail, that his schooner sailed
well and was in good order, that his crew were all healthy except
James Thomas--whom we took on board, and sent one of our prisoners in
his stead,--and that he had a full cargo of the following articles;
viz. 50 oz gold dust, 45 tons red-wood, 1 do ivory, ½ do bees wax,
700 lbs gum copal. Took the gold on board, supplied Capt. S. with
some bread, rice, butter, porter, etc. and at meridian gave him three
cheers and bade him adieu. Lat. Obs. 3°43′.
114th Day Monday 8th Feb.
.... ½ Past 7 a. m. came to anchor in 13 fathoms water, hard bottom,
in a convenient harbour at the N. W. end of Fernando Noronha, distant
about ¾ of a mile from the shore. The Commander sent Lieut. Barton
to ask permission of the Governor to obtain wood and water. He was
received in the most friendly manner and the petition was at once
granted. The Governor informed Lieut. B. that the _Morjiana_ and
_Acosta_, British Frigates, touched at this island last December,
bound to India; and that the American ship _John_ of Salem, also
touched here on the 14th Jan. 1813. 11 a. m. sent the boat to fill
water, which is very difficult to obtain....
115th Day Tuesday 9th Feb.
At 5 p. m. got up the anchor and dropped down nearer the watering
place.... Both boats employed in getting off wood and water. Owing
to the heavy surf which breaks over the rocks find it very difficult
to take off the water. However got 9 casks on board and two boat
loads of wood. Master Snow and Lieut. Barton on shore finishing our
affairs, i.e. filling the rest of the water, buying fresh stock,
etc. etc. All hands busy, some in the boats, others in the hold,
many overhauling the rigging, slushing the masts, etc. no idlers,
everyone anxious to leave the famous (or perhaps _infamous_) island
of Fernando Noronha.[57] James Thomas, the seaman we took out of the
_Alder_, is dangerously sick of a fever he caught in the Gaboon.
116th Day Wednesday 10 Feb.
Messrs. Snow, Barton and Miller dined on shore with the Governor.
They were treated with great civility and politeness. The Governor
expressed his satisfaction at our having captured 14 English vessels,
and mentioned that an American Consul touched at this island on the
13th Dec. last, on his way to Pernambuco. Having got all wood and
water on board, and also a fine bullock, at 4 p. m. weighed anchor
and stood out to sea, with fresh trades and fine weather--course N.
N. W. bound towards HOME.... Thomas is something better but still
dangerous. Lat. Obs. 1°33′ S.
117th Day Thursday 11th Feb.
.... Nothing worth noting. Lat. Obs. 30′ S.
118th Day Friday 12th Feb.
.... At 3 p. m. being Lieut. Vinson’s watch, a squall struck us with
all sail standing, and nearly capsized the ship. Instantly the other
officers ran upon deck and let fly halyards and sheets and kept her
before it. As soon as the squall was over Captain Wilson put Lieut.
Vinson under arrest for this and various other offences during the
cruise (See ante). Afterwards on his acknowledging his errors and
promising to reform Captain Wilson reinstated him in his command....
No Obs.
119th Day Saturday 13th Feb.
.... Thomas is better. Lat. Obs. 4°16′ N.
120th Day Sunday 14th Feb.
.... [Nothing worth noting.] Lat. Obs. 6°22′.
121st Day Monday 15th Feb.
.... [Nothing worth noting.] Lat. Obs. 8°35′.
122d Day Tuesday 16th Feb.
.... [Nothing worth noting.] Lat. Obs. 11°2′.
123 Day Wednesday 17th Feb.
.... Thomas is out of danger. Lat. Obs. 13°30′ N.
124th Day Thursday 18th Feb.
.... Thomas is much better. Lat. Obs. 15°37′ N.
125th Day Friday 19th Feb.
.... Distance 203 miles--Lat. Obs. 18°13′ N.
126th Day Saturday 20th Feb.
.... Thomas is not so well. Lat. Obs. 20°52′ N.
127th Day Sunday 31st Feb.
.... [Nothing remarkable.] Lat. Obs. 23°14′ N. Long. Lunar Obs. at 9
a. m. 52°12′ W.
128th Day Monday 22d Feb.
At 6 a. m. discovered a sail one point on the lee bow.--At 8
discovered the sail to be a brig.... At 10 made sail in chace of the
ship ... distant about 3 leagues. Lat. Obs. 25°14′.
129th Day Tuesday 23d Feb.
Continued in chace of the sail ahead. At 2 p. m. fired a gun and
hoisted the American flag, upon which the chace showed Portuguese
colours and hove to. At 4 p. m. sent the boat on board and found
her to be the Portuguese ship _Amazon_, Captain Francis Antonia, 24
days out from Lisbon, bound to Boston with a cargo of salt. Capt. A.
informed us that on the 15th inst. he saw a sail ahead but did not
speak her--that there were a great number of Americans at Lisbon and
Cadiz, who were bound home under neutral colours. Lord Wellington had
visited Lisbon and Cadiz for a few days and returned to his army.
The English told Capt. A. that their fleets had burnt and destroyed
Charleston and Philadelphia (This is very improbable)[58] At 5 p. m.
made sail on our course. Lat. Obs. 26°16′ N.--Long. Lunar Obs. 10 a.
m. 55°27′ W. Var. Ev. Amp. 5°20′ W. Thomas is much better.
130 Day Wednesday 24th Feb.
.... At 11 a. m. discovered a sail on the lee bow, apparently a brig
standing close hauled to the eastward under royals with his course
hauled up. Observed the sail immediately to bear away in chace of
us. Tacked ship and made all sail to avoid the chace, or at least
to discover how she sailed. Gentle breezes, a smooth and pleasant
weather. 11-40 a. m. finding we dropped the chace very fast again
tacked ship.... At meridian the sail bears 2 points on the lee bow,
distant 12 or 14 miles. Lat. Obs. 270°3′ N.--Long. Lunar 56°42′ W.
131st Day Thursday 25th Feb.
Made all sail in chace. At 3 p. m. fired a gun, upon which the chace
showed English colours. ½ past 3 she hove to with her maintopsail
aback. Piped all hands to quarters and cleared for action. ¼ before
4 the enemy got under weigh to engage us. At 4 p. m. being within
good gun shot commenced a brisk cannonade on the starboard side
which the enemy returned. 10 minutes past 4 p. m. she wore ship and
struck her colours. Gave three cheers. Sent the barge on board and
found our prize to be the English Brig called the _Shannon_, Captain
Robert Kendall, of Workington, 25 days out from Maranham, bound to
Liverpool, 210 tons burthen, with a full cargo of cotton (100 bales)
navigated by 15 men, mounting 10 carriage guns, sixes and nines, a
fine vessel and sails well. The Mate was severely wounded in the
foot. Took out the prisoners, made out Prize Commission for Samuel
Barton, Letter of Instructions, gave him ship’s papers, and at ½ past
5 p. m. gave our prize three cheers and bade her adieu. Thus in one
hour and a half we took a valuable prize, manned her and ordered her
home. This prize may be estimated at $45,000.[59]
Long. Lunar at 9 a. m. 58°6′ W.--Lat. Obs. 27°37′ N.
132 Day Friday 26th Feb.
At 5 p. m. saw a sail 1½ points on the lee bow, apparently a brig
standing to the southward.... At daylight no appearance of the sail
we discovered last night.... Long. Lun. at 11 a. m. 59°44′ W.--Lat.
Obs. 28°20′ N.
133d Day Saturday 27th Feb.
At 3 p. m. discovered a sail two points on the lee beam; believed her
to be an armed vessel in chace of us. Continued our course with all
our canvass spread. ½ past 4 lost sight of the sail astern. During
the night frequent squalls of wind and rain. At 4 p. m. being very
dark and squally found ourselves suddenly in the midst of a fleet of
ships. Instantly called all hands and tacked ship to the S. E. At
daybreak discovered two large ships and a brig standing to the E.
Tacked ship again to the N. N. W. The nearest sail bore two points on
the lee beam distant about 2½ leagues. At 7 a. m. lost sight of all
the sails and continued on our course. Strong breezes, flying clouds
and a heavy sea. Rook two reefs in topsail and mainsail, got six of
our cannon below, with all the shot boxes, secured Long Tom with
strong lashings, housed the lee guns, and got everything ready for
the stormy weather which we may expect to encounter as we approach
our coast.... Thomas is nearly recovered. The wounded prisoner is
comfortable and the Surgeon thinks he will do well. Lat. Obs. 30°27′
N.
134th Day Sunday 28th Feb.
(Begins with heavy weather) 9 a. m. saw a sail 3 points on the
weather bow. ½ past 10 spoke the Swedish (American) Hermaphrodite
Brig _Augustus_ from Boston, bound to St. Bartholomew’s--with liberty
to touch at Bermuda--with cargo of American produce, 15 days out.
The Captain and passengers informed us that Commodore Decatur had
captured the British Frigate _Macedonian_ after an engagement of
17 minutes; that none of our vessels of war have been taken; that
Admiral Warren’s squadron were blockading the Chesapeake with two
Seventy fours and five Frigates, and that there were not many
cruisers on the coast. We obtained from him several newspapers up to
the 13th Feb., from which it appears that no important battles had
taken place on the Frontier, but several skirmishes with the Indians;
that the foreign news was no later than our English papers--Bonaparte
having retired into winter quarters at Smolenski, and Lord Wellington
on the borders of Portugal; that the coasting trade is still
continued; that a great trade was carried on under neutral flags and
many vessels dispatched to Lisbon, Cadiz and France; that there were
numerous arrivals from foreign ports but not many prizes, and that
five frigates had sailed from France bound to America. Congress had
passed a loan bill for 22 millions and raised another army of 20000
men, besides building several sloops of war. Permitted the _Augustus_
to proceed.--Lat. Obs. 31°33′.
135th Day Monday 1st March
.... Distance 212 miles. Invalids recover fast. Lat. Obs. 34°23′
Thermometer 71°.
136th Day Tuesday 2d March
(Commences with strong breezes and pleasant weather--then comes a
tremendous gale with very high seas.) 11 a. m. the stern boat being
stove in the bows cut it adrift. ½ past 11 a. m. came on a very heavy
squall of rain and hail and hove the ship down nearly to her beam
ends; instantly cut away the fore and trysail halyards, got the helm
up and kept her before it, threw four of our cannon overboard, got
two below, sent down maintopmast; vessel labored excessively, the
sea making a fair breach over her. Continual squalls of wind, rain,
hail and snow, with thunder and lightning and a very dangerous sea.
Finding it unsafe to lay the ship to while the squalls continued sent
her before it under a foretopmast staysail; ship perfectly tight and
making no water. Lat. Obs. 37°11′ N.
137 Day Wednesday 3d March
The storm continues with frequent and heavy squalls.... At 12
midnight the squalls become less frequent--the wind more moderate
and steady and the sea less dangerous. Hove to under trysail with
her head to the westward, rode easy and shipped no seas. 8 a. m. the
wind died away--nearly a calm--latterly an entire calm. Vessel labors
considerably owing to the heavy sea. Thomas is almost well; the
wounded Mate is in a fair way to recover; the Armourer received a bad
contusion in the side by a fall. Ther. 63° Lat. 36°23′ N.
138 Day Thursday 4th March
(More very nasty weather). Conclude with strong gales and flying
clouds with a bad sea. Invalids not so well. Lat. Obs. 37°30′ N.
139th Day Friday 5th March
(Variable weather. Two sails sighted at a distance.) Mr. Jackson, the
wounded mate, is dangerously ill. Lat. Obs. None.
140th Day Saturday 6th March
(More squally weather with dangerous seas.) Thermometer 45°. Lat.
37°28′.
141st Day Sunday 7th March
(The gale gradually dies away). Dark cloudy weather and excessively
cold. Mr. Jackson is dangerously sick--having symptoms of the
lock-jaw. The Armourer recovered. Lat. Obs. 37°5′ N.
142d Day Monday 8th March
(Again heavy weather and high seas.) Mr. Jackson is (we fear) past
recovery, having frequent spasms and confirmed lockjaw. James Thomas
no better, the Armourer better. No Obs. Lat. D. R. 39°37′ N. Long. D.
R. 69°55′.
143d Day Tuesday 9th March
.... 8 a. m. discovered a sail on the weather bow, ½ past 8 made
out the sail to be a pilot-boat-built schooner under reefs standing
towards us. 9 a. m. the sail showed a red and white signal and bore
away S. E. Believed her to be an American Privateer. ½ past 9 more
ships heading W. N. W.... Tis exactly 5 months today since we left
Bristol. Mr. Jackson no better. Lat. Polar Star at 4 a. m. 39°30′ No
Obs.
144th Day Wednesday 10th March
(Preparations for port). This morning the sun was fair and serene,
the air was clear and bracing, the sea smooth, and a fair wind from
the S. W. Sent up topmasts and yards and set all sail below and
aloft. Cou. N. N. E. 8 knots. Got up all the wet sails, colours
and clothes and aired them. Bent the cables. Lat. Polar star at 7
p. m. 39°20′ N. Lat. Obs. 40°14′. Long. Lunar at 4 p. m. 72°54′ W.
Soundings at meridian 55 fathoms. Block Island bears N. N. E. distant
about 65 miles. Jackson is better.
145th Day Thursday 11th March
.... At ½ past 4 p. m. the man at mast head called out LAND HO!
Joyful sound to persons five months at sea on a long and dangerous
cruise. Suppose the land to be Long Island. At sundown running down
the land on the larboard hand. 7 p. m. cloudy with rain. Shortened
sail. 8 p. m. being very dark and hazy and not being able to see the
light hove to under reefed topsail and stood off and on 3 a. m. died
away a calm and we suddenly lessened our soundings to 6 fathoms.
Immediately took in sail and let go our small anchor. Found she rode
with her head to the S. W. current setting to the N. E. At daylight
being dark and foggy with rain, and no land in sight, fired several
guns for a pilot. 8 a. m. it became more clear and we discovered the
land and breakers close aboard bearing E. b N. We instantly knew
this land to be Nantucket and that we were mistaken in supposing it
to be Long Island. This mistake might have proved fatal and had it
commenced blowing heavy from the S. W. we must inevitably have been
shipwrecked on these dangerous shoals. Weighed anchor and made all
sail to the S. Soon deepened our soundings to 17 fathoms.... No Obs.
146th Day Friday 12th March
At ½ past 1 p. m. the fog cleared away and we plainly discerned No
Man’s Land, Gay Head and Block Island all in view.... Observe the
land to be covered with snow and a brig and schooner in shore. Cloudy
and very cold with a smooth sea, a fair wind and all sail set. At
3-13 p. m. saw Rhode Island Light right ahead.--6 p. m. came on a
very thick fog with a heavy swell. Spoke a schooner from New York
bound in to Newport who informed us he left Rhode Island Light about
30 minutes ago and that it bore N. N. W. distant about 3 miles. He
further mentioned that there were no British cruisers in the Bay,
but had heard of several off Sandy Hook. Made sail for the Light. ½
past 6 p. m. it being very dark and foggy, not being able to see the
Light, came to anchor in 17 fathoms, soft bottom. During the night
foggy with heavy rain and extremely cold. 12 midnight discovered
the Light bearing N. N. W. ¼ N. distant about 1½ miles. At daylight
made sail and weighed anchor, standing in for Newport harbour. _It
is with deep regret_ we mention the death of Mr. Jackson, late first
Mate of the English Brig _Shannon_, who died at ½ past 12 midnight in
great agony. Mr. Jackson, as before stated, was severely wounded by
a cannon ball in the foot during the skirmish between the _Yankee_
and the _Shannon_ on the 24th ult. Notwithstanding every medical
assistance, and all possible attention his wound terminated in the
lockjaw, spasms and death. Mr. Jackson belonged to Workington, was 23
years old, very much beloved by his captain and crew, and appeared to
be a most excellent young man.
At ½ past 7 a. m. passed Rhode Island Light; ½ past 8 a. m. fired
a salute of three guns as we passed Fort Wolcott. 9 a. m. came to
anchor in Newport harbour. Thus after an absence of 146 days the
_Yankee_ has arrived safe, having captured during the cruise 8
valuable prizes, 52 cannons, 196 prisoners, 401 stand of small arms,
and property to the amount of 296,000 dollars. She is ballasted with
gold-dust, ivory and fine goods. She has not lost a man during the
cruise either by sickness or the enemy, and has returned with 52
persons on board including boys. It is worthy of remark that the
_Yankee_ neither saw nor was chased by any of his Majesty’s war dogs
during the cruise except the little schooner _St. Jago_. She has
encountered as before mentioned a great deal of tempestuous weather
on the coast but has received no material injury, except the loss of
4 cannon thrown overboard on the 2d of March.
THUS ENDS OUR CRUISE.
“Honor and shame from no condition rise,
Act well your part, there all the Honor lies.”
District and Port of Newport, March 12th, 1813.
I, Oliver Wilson, Commander of the private armed brig called the
_Yankee_, do swear that what is contained in the foregoing Journal,
consisting of one hundred and fifty pages, is just and true in all
its parts. So help me God.
OLIVER WILSON.
Collector’s Office, Port of Newport
Sworn to the day and year above mentioned,
WILLIAM ELLERY, _Collector_.
FINIS
LIST OF PRIZES CAPTURED BY THE PRIVATEER “YANKEE” DURING HER SECOND
CRUISE.
No. 1. Sloop _Mary Ann_ of London, Captain Stewart Sutherland,
copper-bottomed, mounting 4 carriage guns and navigated by 11 men,
with a cargo of gold-dust, ivory, drygoods, and camwood. Took out
the cargo, stripped the vessel and set her on fire. 27th Nov.
1812--Lat. Obs. 7°29′ N.--off Sierra Leone.
Vessel and cargo valued at $16,000
No. 2 Letter of Marque Schooner _Alder_, of Liverpool, late Captain
Edward Crowley, mounting 6 carriage guns (9 pounders), coppered,
formerly a French Privateer, with 21 men and a cargo of gun powder
(400 casks) muskets, iron, lead, flints, drygoods, etc. Ordered
home. The _Alder_ was captured on the 3d of Dec. 1812 in Lat. 6°53′
N, off Cape Saint Anna, after a skirmish of 20 minutes. The _Alder_
blew up.
Vessel and cargo valued at $10,000
No. 3 Letter of Marque Brig _Andalusia_, Anthony Yates Kendall,
Master of and from Gibraltar, bound to the coast on a trading
voyage, 210 tons burthen, mounting 10 carriage guns (4 long French
nines and 6 twelve pound cannonades) with small arms, ammunition
etc. and a crew of 100 men including 81 Free Africans who served
as marines. The _Andalusia_ was captured on the 10th of Dec. 1812,
in Lat. 5°35′ N, after a running fight of three hours and a close
engagement of 45 minutes.
Vessel and cargo valued at $17,000
No. 4 Pilot boat Schooner _George_. Cut out by the _Yankee’s_ boat.
Deserted by the captain and crew. Cargo Rice. Given to prisoners.
Vessel and cargo valued at $ 1,000
No. 5 Brig _Thames_ of Liverpool, Francis Toole, Master; 8 carriage
guns (nines and twelves), 14 men, cargo ivory, drygoods and camwood
(240 tons)--captured 10th Jan. 1813 off Annabona.
Vessel and cargo valued at $25,000
No. 6 Brig _Fly_ of London, Captain Tydeman, 6 carriage guns (nines)
14 men, formerly a French privateer, a new and handsome vessel and
sails, cargo gold-dust, ivory, gun powder, drygoods and sundries.
The _Fly_ was cut out from under the guns of Fort Apollonia,
mounting 50 pieces of artillery, at 1 p. m. on the 20th Dec. 1812.
Vessel and cargo valued at (Besides the gold) $26,000
No. 7 Armed Brig _Harriott and Matilda_, of Maryport, Captain John
Inman, from Cork bound to Pernambuco, mounting 8 carriage guns,
eighteens and twelves, 14 men, coppered, 262 tons, sails well, with
a valuable cargo of drygoods, iron, porter, salt etc.
Vessel and cargo valued at $27,000
No. 8 Brig _Shannon_, Captain Robert Kendall, of Workington, from
Maranham, bound to Liverpool, mounting 10 carriage guns (nines and
sixes), 15 men, 210 tons burthen, with a full cargo of cotton (100
tons). The _Shannon_ was captured on the 24th Feb. in Lat. 27°3′ N.
and Long. Lunar 56°42′ W, Bermudas bearing N. W., after an action of
10 minutes in which the Mate of the _Shannon_ was severely wounded.
Vessel and cargo valued at $45,000
Property on board the _Yankee_ in gold, ivory,
fine goods etc. $45,000
--------
$212,000
GENERAL ESTIMATE.
Names Guns Men Small Arms Value
_Mary Ann_ 4 11 186 $16,000
_Alder_ 6 21 90 10,000
_Andalusia_ 10 100 90 17,000
_George_ 7 1,000
_Fly_ 6 14 20 26,000
_Thames_ 8 14 30 25,000
_Harriott & Matilda_ 8 14 20 27,000
_Shannon_ 10 15 25 45,000
-- --- --- --------
52 196 461 $167,000
Value on board the _Yankee_ 45,000
--------
$212,000
OFFICERS OF THE YANKEE
Oliver Wilson, Commander
Seth Barton, First Lieutenant
John H. Vinson, Second Lieutenant
Thomas Jones, Third Lieutenant
Elisha Snow, Master
Caleb Miller, Surgeon
Noah Jones, Capt. of Marines & Captain’s Clerk
Andrew Holden, First Mate
Joseph Meades, Second Mate
Thomas Pitts, Third Mate
Seven Prize-Masters
Six Quarter-Masters
One hundred men
ROUTE OF THE YANKEE
Touched at St. Jago, Cape de Verds, on the 27th day of her cruise
for wood and water. Engaged one of his Britannic Majesty’s Schooners
on the night of the 23d of November. Cruised between Cape Verde and
Cape Lopez from the 22d of November 1812 to the 6th of January 1813,
looking in at every port, harbour, river, factory, town etc on that
coast, and capturing five valuable prizes, loaded with gold dust,
ivory, dyewoods etc. Touched at the island’s of St. Thomas, Annabona,
Ascension, and Fernando Noronha, at various times during her cruise,
for wood, water and fresh stock. Then cruised off the coast of
Brazil, and captured two large brigs with cargoes of fine goods and
sundries. Fought four battles, crossed the Equinoctial Line six
times, and returned safe into port, having been frequently chased by
the enemy, after an absence of 146 days without the loss of a man.[60]
(Noah Jones, Captain’s Clerk)
FOOTNOTES:
[40] Ann. Cong. 2 Sess. 1820-21, Senate, pp. 71-77.
[41] This vessel was the Chippewa. One of the Bristol privateers,
the Macdonough, had developed such remarkable speed as to call
public attention to her builder, Captain Caleb Carr of Warren, R. I.
Accordingly Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, as agent of the United
States Government, was ordered to contract with Captain Carr for the
building of a warship within ninety days. Perry, be it remembered,
had already developed, upon the shores of Lake Erie, a marvellous
capacity for building ships in record time. On March 15, 1814, only
fifty-seven days from the time her keel was laid, notwithstanding
many days of storm and snow, this ship of 411 tons burden, carrying
sixteen guns, was delivered to Commodore Perry for her rigging and
armament. A few days afterward she went to sea completely armed
and rigged. The money for both its construction and equipment was
advanced by Mr. De Wolf.
[42] A word about nautical terms for the benefit of those not in
an old sea port born. All vessels, except the one masted sloops,
are much larger than those of a hundred years ago, and the number
of masts upon vessels has been increased. A “full rigged ship” of
a century ago was a three masted vessel with square sails hanging
from yards on each of the masts. Schooners and brigs were two masted
vessels, the former with sails on both masts similar to those upon a
sloop yacht today, but very much smaller. The schooner rig was not
applied to three masted craft until about the middle of the last
century. The giant schooners of the present time, with their four,
five, six and even seven masts, had not been dreamed of fifty years
ago. The schooner rig was devised in Gloucester, Massachusetts, about
the year 1713. It is gradually making its way around the world. The
writer noted that in 1904 it had almost entirely supplanted the
“junk” upon the Inland Sea of Japan.
Brigs were of two kinds, full rigged and hermaphrodite. A full rigged
brig had square sails on both masts, while the hermaphrodite (in
sailor dialect “morfydite”) had square sails on the foremast and
schooner sails on the other, and was sometimes called a brigantine.
The Yankee, ordinarily spoken of as a brig, was really a brigantine.
Brigs are rarely seen in United States ports today. They almost
invariably sail under a foreign flag.
[43] Captain Wilson was only twenty-six years old.
[44] It is reported that these unfortunates were frequently asked
“how they liked the swimming” by those of the crew who had remained
for the capture of the San Jose Indiano, and that rude boys, for
almost a generation, continued to ask the same question, always of
course at a respectful distance.
[45] The San Jose Indiano was a teak built East Indiaman. How old she
was at the time of her capture we do not know, but she was destined
to a long life under the American flag. As far as seaworthiness was
concerned she might have continued to plow the seas until the time of
our Civil War--then to end her days with the other whaleships from
New Bedford and elsewhere that were sunk to block the entrance to
the harbor of Charleston, S. C. Mr. De Wolf renamed her the General
Jackson and used her for a time in the general carrying trade. Later
when the whale fishery became popular with the people of the towns on
Narragansett Bay she received a whaler’s outfit and sailed for years
with the Bristol whaling fleet. The Mexican War having broken out,
she was sold, in 1846 or thereabout, to the United States Government,
being by her construction specially adapted for work in tropical
waters. When a Government survey was made, preliminary to her sale,
the carpenters who attempted to cut holes in her sides expended many
tools, and much profanity, before they could make any impression upon
her planks. Her teak timbers, combined with the cement between their
joints, for a time defied all their efforts, both wood and cement
having become almost as hard as stone. After she had lain for some
months at anchor off Vera Cruz, the Government had no further need
for her and therefore sold her to a third American owner. To him she
did not prove profitable, and it is said that an attempt to set her
on fire in order to secure her insurance was made. The staunch old
ship simply refused to burn. Again she was sold for a very small sum.
Then, so the story goes, a more scientific and successful attempt
to transfer her to the underwriters was made. She was loaded with a
cargo of lime, and then holes having been skilfully made in her hull,
doubtless with more profanity, she was cleared for a southern port.
Somewhere in the waters about the Florida peninsula she was run upon
a reef, and the ocean combined with the lime to do the rest.
[46] The name Goree was until very recently applied to the part of
the town of Bristol in which the negroes lived.
[47] This is the only record of a punishment inflicted upon one of
the crew during the whole cruise. As will later appear one of the
Officers became subject for censure on several occasions.
[48] Baft, or bafta, was a coarse stuff of India cotton.
[49] The _Yankee_ in firing aimed to disable--not to destroy her
possible prizes.
[50] In comparing the edifying music of the marines with the ungodly
songs of the sailors the gentle reader will do well to bear in mind
the fact that the writer was the Captain of Marines.
[51] This was true in more ways than one as the _Fly_ was recaptured
by the British. The gold dust she had accumulated reached Bristol in
the _Yankee_.
[52] The small size of the vessel suggests the _Pinta_ and the _Niña_
of the fleet of Columbus.
[53] Mr. Vinson’s indisposition was probably due to drunkenness, as
will appear from subsequent entries. His case was an unusual one for
a Privateersman.
[54] Query, Were there others suffering from the Vinsonian malady?
[55] Descriptions like this, which occur frequently in the Journals
of American merchantmen, were carefully read by ship owners, and
mastered by the Captains sent to trade with foreign ports.
[56] The two islands, Ascension and Saint Helena, which was later to
become famous as the prison of Napoleon Bonaparte, were both made
“Ports of Call” for the _Yankee_.
[57] The island is used by the government of Brazil as a penal
settlement.
[58] The burning of Washington was yet to come.
[59] Before the _Shannon_ was captured, Mr. Jones had made out his
“List of Prizes,” and had also written the “Route of the _Yankee_”
which is printed at the end of this Journal. It is possible that
he may not have protested very strongly at the additional entries
he was compelled to make. The _Shannon_, with her cargo, actually
netted $67,521. The erroneous estimate may be excused in view of the
exceedingly short time allowed for its making. When the cargo of the
_Shannon_ was sold, Mr. De Wolf found that he had been remunerated
for all his losses suffered at the hands of the British cruisers. He
therefore renamed her the _Balance_. Bearing that name she sailed
from Bristol for years thereafter. The next prize was renamed the
_Prize_, and the next the _Remittance_. The _San Jose Indiano_ of the
5th cruise became the _General Jackson_.
[60] The _Shannon_ had not been taken when this “Route” was written.
INDEX
Adam of Bremen, 8
Alaska houses and customs, 146
Allen, Amos A., 231
Allen, Anson A., 244
Ancastra, Governor General, 240
Andrews, Zep, 269
Angell, James, 228, 230, 231, 234, 235, 237, 241, 244
Annals of Iceland, 9
Anthony, James, 270
Anthony, Joseph, 238, 269
Antonio, Capt. Francis, 277
Antonio, King of Lahore, 256
Archangel settlement, 126
Ariadne of Boston, 229
Athawalpa, 116
Atwood, Preserved, 240
Babcock, W. H., 2
Bafts, 246
Baidarkas, 114
Baker, Lemuel, 241
Balance, brig, 278
Bander, Supt., 144
Baranoff, Baron, 114 et seq., 120
Barracks moved, 25
Barton, Samuel, 219, 220, 278
Barton, Seth, 228, 245, 251, 257, 274, 275, 288
Belfour, Ellah & Co., 198
Biarni, Heriulfson, 3
Blockade, privateer, 212
Booldakoff, Mr., 195
“Boston Men,” 111
Bosworth, Nathaniel, 15
Boyish sports, 30
Boynton, Samuel, 233, 234, 235, 237, 244
Bradford, Gov. William, 23, 25
Bradford house, 25
Briggs, John, 227, 230, 231, 234, 235, 241, 244
Bristol, name 14,
bombarded 22,
burned 23
Brown, Captain, 113
Brown, Daniel, 44
Brown, John, 19, 206
Brown, Peleg, 44
Bruce, George A., 219
Bucharin, Capt., 163
Bucklin, D., 102
Bucklin, E., 102
Burgas, Capt. Miguel, 233
Burt, Rev. John, 22
Burt, “Marm,” 25
Burton, Stephen, 13, 14
Butman, Joseph, 244
Byfield, Nathaniel, 13, 18
Byfield house, 15
Byrum, Ebenezer, 231
Cammett, Richard, 102
Caroline of Boston, 111
Carr, Capt. Caleb, 212, 214
Carr, Mr., 252
Carter, John, 253, 260, 263, 264, 266
Charanville, Madam, 89
Child, William, 253
Chippewa, sloop of war, 212
Church, Benjamin, 12, 14
Churchill, Capt. Benj. K., 221, 222
Cockroach, Cuffee, 219, 221
Coddington Jr., Nathaniel, 44
Coit, Richard M., 272
Colt, Samuel Pomeroy, 224
Columbia of Boston, 111
Commerce, 31
Cook, J. D., 102
Courtney, brig, 220
Cramer, Benedict, 195
Cramer, Smith & Co., 195
Crawford, James, 235
Crowne, John, 12
Crowley, Capt. Edward, 246, 285
Cuffee Cockroach, 219, 221
Cunha Matos, Governor, 262
Davidoff, John, 121, 128, 153, 201
D’Antillac, Father, 92
D’Huberlant, Father, 92
D’Orvilliers, Commandant, 85
DeVilleconte, Father, 92
DeWolf, Charles, 101
DeWolf, George, 101
DeWolf, James, 32, 101, 200 et seq.
DeWolf, John, 97 et seq.
DeWolf, Mark Antony, 44, 205
DeWolf family, 97
Dichaetin, Chief, 131
Distilleries, 26
Dogs, 152, 154, 157
Downing, Mrs., 97
Duddington, Thomas, 19
Duffel, 114
Duro, 187
Ebbetts, Capt., 111
Eddy, George, 219, 266
Ellery, William, 285
Elliott, Francis, 220
Eustis, William, 214
Fauque, Father, 45, 48 et seq.
Fernald, Professor, 5
Ferry boats, 190
Foy, William, 102
Francis, prize ship, 218
Freydis, 8
Gaspee, schooner, burned, 19
General Jackson, prize ship, 32, 220
General Wellesley, prize ship, 222
Gibsheet, Jack, 241
Goff, seaman, 248
Gorea, 18, 241
Grafton, Samuel, 221
Grand Sisters Islands, 255
Grant, Sueton, 44
Grapes, 5
Gray, Capt. David, 199
Gray, Capt. Robert, 111
Greene, Governor William, 49
Griswold, Bishop, 26
Gullifer, Sampson, 219
Gunnerson, George. 241, 244
Gunpowder Plot, 66
Guy Fawkes Day, 66
Hampden, John, 11
Hanson, J., 102
Hardiman, Lieutenant, 225
Harris, L., 196
Hayman, Nathan, 14
Hetherington, A. B., 221
Hitchcock, 102
Holden, Andrew, 259, 260, 288
Holden, James, 260, 263, 264
Holmes, Capt. Bartlett, 229
Hooper, Joseph, 102
“Hop,” 7
Hopkins, Stephen, 10
Horsford, E. N., 2
Hunt, Thomas, 102
Iceland Annals, 9
Image worship, 61
Ingraham, Ned, 228, 233, 237, 241
Inman, Capt. John, 272
Irkutsk, 181
Ivanah, Major Antony, 151
Jack Jibsheet, 219, 221, 241
Jackson, Mate, 281, 284
James, Edward, 242
Japanese on Kurile Islands, 153
Jenckes, Capt. Wm. C., 221
Jenkins, Capt., 231
Jones, Abraham, 115
Jones, Edward, 248
Jones, John, 102
Jones, Noah, 225, 288
Jones, Thomas, 219, 220, 288
Juno, ship 101,
crew 102
Kaluschians, 132
Kendall, Capt. Anthony Y., 251
Kendall, Capt. Robert, 278
Kip, Bishop W. I., 44
Kipp, William, 44
Koscheleff, Gov. General, 155
Korükin, 121
Koster, John, 234 235, 243
Krusenstern, Capt., 124
Kurile Islands, 153
Kutsnetsoff, 164, 192
Lafayette, 24
Lage de la Landerie, 54
Langsdorff, Dr. George, 121, 127 et seq., 182, 201
Lariwanoff, Madame, 147
Leif Ericson, 3
Lewis, Joseph, 230, 234, 241
Lindegard, J. C., 263, 264
Lisiansky, Capt., 124, 125
Macdonough, privateer, 212, 213, 214
Madina, Dr., 239
Mahoney, J., 102
Mary of Boston, 104, 105, 116, 120
Marshall, J., 102
Maschin, Andrew W., 121, 128
Mason, Aaron, 237
Massasoit, 9, 10, 11
Meades, Joseph, 288
Midget, Abner, 244
Miller, Dr. Caleb, 270, 288
Milton, Thomas, 219, 259
Mitchell, Henry, 238
Monthaup or Montop, 2
Moorfield, James, 102, 115, 123, 195
Morris, Watson, 237
Moscow, 192 et seq.
Mount Hope Lands, 2, 13
Munro, Benjamin, 44
Murphy, T., 102
Nantucket, 3
Narragansett pacers, 78
Nautical terms, 213
Newell, Samuel G., 102
Newettee, 109
Norseman’s Rock, 9
Norsemen, 2
O’Connor, Mr., 253
Officers of the Yankee, 288
Oliver, Nathaniel, 13, 14
Oyapoc, 45 et seq.,
Fort 92
Parker, E. D., 102, 103, 165
Patterson, S., 102
Pearl of Boston, 111, 116
Peck, Lyman, 241
Perry, Rev. C. B., 97, 206
Perry, Com. M. C., 99
Perry, Com. O. H., 212
Pervoshka, 182
Petroff, Supt., 163
Philip, King 11,
monument 12
Phillips, Michael, 44
Phipps, W., 102
Pickens, Samuel, 257
Pitts, Thomas, 288
Plunder from Oyapoc, 46
Popes in Russia, 144
Popoff, 121
Porter, Capt., 116
Port Praya, 240
Potter, Jeffrey, 44, 46
Potter, Simeon, 19, 38, 206
Powers, J., 102
Prince Charles of Lorraine, wrecked, 43
Prizes of the Yankee, 286-7
Profits from privateering, 217
Ramansoff, 196
Redding, William, 231, 240, 241
Religious revivals, 26, 27
Resanoff, Baron, 100, 121, 125, 153, 163
Rhode Island privateers, 42
“Rodelan” described, 59
Robinson, Capt. Andrew, 98
Royal Bounty, ship, 217
Russell, Thomas P., 217
Russian baptismal service, 158
Russian leave-takings, 189
Russian trading voyage to San Francisco, 138
Sables at Irkutsk, 175
St. Michael’s Church, burned, 24
St. Michael’s Church, revivals in, 26
St. Thomas Island, 262
San Jose Indiano, prize, 220
Salsbury (or Salisberry), Daniel, 248, 264, 274
Schelikoff, pioneer, 125
Schitchachon, 132
Schooners, 98
Schoonerson, George, 238
Schwostoff, Nicholas, 121, 128, 153, 201
Settakroo, King, 254
Ship-building, 31
Simmons, Cyrus, 228, 230, 231, 234, 235, 237
Simonitch, Dementy, 186
Sitcha, habits, houses and fashions, 134,
climatic conditions, 137
Skraelings, 7
Slave trade, 16, 18, 206 et seq.
Slocum, N. A., 260
Slocum, N. M., 266
Small-pox, 179
Smith, Bishop B. B., 21
Smith, John, 215, 220
Snorri Thorfinnson, 6
Snow, Elisha, 219-21, 244, 252, 263, 274
Starruk (Starruke), 153
Stetson, George W., 106, 123
Sturgis, Capt., 113
Stokes, J., 102
Sutherland, Capt. Stewart, 243, 253
Swan, Capt. Thomas, 21
Sweet, Capt. Manly, 217
Switchell or Switcher, Asa, 241, 244, 263, 264
Tacking, 3
Tatton, D., 102
Tea drinking, 175
Thames, prize ship, 219
Thomas, James, 237, 241, 274, 275
Thomas, John A., 102
Thorfinn Karlsefni, 6
Thorvald Ericson, 5, 7
Tilley, Admiral B. F., 30
Tobacco benefits, 29
Tobolsk, 188
Tompenny, Capt. Robert, 253
Toole, Capt. Francis, 265
Trescott, Capt., 104
Tripp, W. H., 102
Turtles, 269
Tydeman, Capt. Jonathan, 258
Tyng, Rev. S. H., 28
Tyrker, 5
Usher, James 2d, 217
Usher, Sammy, 16
Vancouver of Boston, 113, 116
Viking ships, 2
Vinland, 2, 5, 8
Vinson, John H., 260, 263, 264, 266, 276, 288
Wallace, Capt. James, 21, 22
Walley, John, 13, 14
Wamsutta, 11
Wardwell, Henry, 221
Washington, George, 25
Water Witch, privateer, 212
Whales and whaling, 32, 143, 161
Wheeler, J., 102
Wheesner, J., 102
Whipple, Capt. Abraham, 20, 21
Whitehead, Charles B., 246
Whitmarsh, Jonathan, 243
Williams, Capt. Alfred, 239
Wilson, Capt. Oliver, 213, 217, 225 et seq.
Wilson, Tom, 255
Wilson, Capt. Thomas, 226
Winship, Capt. Jonathan, 140
Winslow, Edward, 10, 11
Winter climate of Vinland, 4, 7
Wiopock, 45
Yakutsk, 173
Yemshik, 184
Yermerk, 122
Zelinzoff, 187
* * * * * *
Transcriber’s note:
Obvious typographical errors and punctuation errors have been
corrected after careful comparison with other occurrences within
the text and consultation of external sources.
Footnote [10] is referenced from Footnote [9], and Footnote [18]
is referenced from Footnote [17].
Except for those changes noted below, all misspellings in the text,
and inconsistent or archaic usage, have been retained.
Pg 15: ‘the roof slooping’ replaced by ‘the roof sloping’.
Pg 58: ‘their sentinenls on’ replaced by ‘their sentinels on’.
Pg 68: ‘such senitments in’ replaced by ‘such sentiments in’.
Pg 69: ‘we would take me.’ replaced by ‘he would take me.’.
Pg 86: ‘who were prsioners’ replaced by ‘who were prisoners’.
Pg 88: ‘and fo this reason’ replaced by ‘and for this reason’.
Pg 128: ‘for science’ sake’ replaced by ‘for science’s sake’.
Pg 161: ‘then bade good by’ replaced by ‘then bade good-bye’.
Pg 172: ‘iunnmerable cattle’ replaced by ‘innumerable cattle’.
Pg 232: ‘left at Maderia’ replaced by ‘left at Madeira’.
Pg 232: ‘left Maderia an’ replaced by ‘left Madeira an’.
Pg 232: ‘and the scurvey’ replaced by ‘and the scurvy’.
Pg 246: ‘African crew, men’ replaced by ‘African crewmen’.
Pg 255: ‘Obs. 4, 17.’ replaced by ‘Obs. 4°17′.’.
Pg 256: ‘Lat. 4, 38.’ replaced by ‘Lat. 4°38′.’.
Pg 266: ‘N. M. Slocun’ replaced by ‘N. M. Slocum’.
Pg 272: ‘of Mayport,’ replaced by ‘of Maryport,’.
Pg 276: inserted missing header ‘118th Day Friday 12th Feb.’.
Index: ‘Kutsnettsoff’ replaced by ‘Kutsnetsoff’.
Index: ‘Lawarinoff’ replaced by ‘Lariwanoff’.
Index: ‘Schilchachon’ replaced by ‘Schitchachon’.
Index: ‘Sitka’ replaced by ‘Sitcha’.