Wanted — A Chronometer

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HISTORIC NANTUCKET

I remember an incident when I was in the fourth grade. In those days there was one special day every year, called "Examination Day," when members of the School Committee visited each room and asked questions of the children. It was a very special day when we all wore our best clothes and tried to make a good impression on the questioners.

I did not know that Grandfather was a member of the School Committee, so it was with surprise and apprehension that on that particular Examination Day I saw Grandfather enter and take a seat at the front of the class.

After he moved from Main Street, Grandfather spent part of his time with his son, Jesse Coffin, and his daughter-in-law at their home in Brockton, so then we saw him only about nine months each year. He died peacefully there in February, 1908.

After Grandfather's death, I used to imagine that his spirit watched over me and urged me on to higher things.

In the attic at 102 Main Street was a wonderful rope swing made by my great-great-grandfather, Captain James Bunker, a whaling captain. There I used to swing every chance I got, all day if I could manage it. Then I would think of Grandfather Coffin and feel his influence urging me on and approving when I did well. He seemed to be near me there, and I felt that I must never let him down. That feeling has stayed with me throughout the years.

One distinct memory of my Grandfather is that of a rather distinguished looking man, a bit of elegance about him as he walked down Main Street in a tall silk hat and carrying a cane.

His Coffin heritage was a matter of great pride in my Grandfather, and I think he instilled that in me too, though as a child I was not conscious of it.

However, now for me many years later, the most vivid and lasting memory of my Grandfather is his inspirational influence on me, and of pride in being his granddaughter.

If any of our members has a chronometer to loan or present for display at the Whaling Museum it will be most welcome. Hugh Chace, chairman of the museum, realizes that an old one may be difficult to obtain but there have been a number of inquiries as to chronometers by visitors and one of even a modern vintage will be helpful in placing on exhibit with the navigational instrument display. Mr. Chace and the Association will be grateful.