Historic Nantucket
M ain Street view of tke Hadwen House that stands on the corner of Main and Pleasant Streets
Summer 1988 Published Quarterly by Nantucket Historical Association
NANTUCKET HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION OFFICERS President: H. Flint Ranney Vice President: Mrs. Jane D. Woodruff
Vice President: Mrs. Bracebridge H. Young
Secretary: Mrs. Walker Groetzinger
Treasurer: Robert F. Mooney
Honorary Chairman: Robert Congdon Honorary Vice Presidents Walter Beinecke, Jr. Mrs. Bernard Grossman
Albert F. Egan, Jr. Presidents Emeritus Leroy H. True
George W. Jones
Alcon Chadwick Mrs. R. Arthur Orleans Edouard A. Stackpole
COUNCIL MEMBERS Mrs. C. Marshall Beale Mrs. Dwight Beman Max N. Berry Mrs. Richard L. Brecker Mrs. James F. Chase John W. Eckman Mrs. H. Crowell Freeman
John Gilbert Mrs. Hamilton Heard, Jr. Mrs. Arthur Jacobsen Reginald E. Levine Mrs. Earle MacAusland Mrs. William Macomber Nancy A. Martin
Mrs. Carl M. Mueller Philip C. Murray Mrs. Judith Powers Charles F. Sayle, Sr. Susan K. Spring Richard S. Sylvia
ADVISORY BOARD Mrs. Robert Bailey Mrs. Charles Balas Mrs. Donna Beasley Patricia A. Butler Charles Butt Charles Carpenter Mrs. Mary Grace Carpenter
Mrs. Herbert Gutterson Ronald W. Haase William A. Hance Mrs. Robert Hellman Mrs. John Husted Charles Kilvert
Mrs. Thomas Loring Mrs. Earle MacAusland William B. Macomber Paul H. Madden F. Blair Reeves Donald E. Terry Andrew J. Leddy
STAFF John N. Welch, Administrator Victoria Taylor Hawkins Curator of Collections
Gayle Michael Asst. Curator of Research Materials
Jacqueline Kolle Haring Curator of Research Materials
Richard P. Swain Miller
Louise R. Hussey Librarian
Mark W. Fortenberry Plant Managers Richard E. Morcom Asst. Plant Mgr. Peter S. MacGlashan Registrar
Elizabeth Tyrer Executive Secretary
Bruce A. Courson Curator of Museums & Interpretation
Katherine Ayotte Bookkeeper
Edouard A. Stackpole Historian
Thomas W. Dickson Merchandise Manager
Elizabeth Little Curator of Prehistoric Artifacts
Leroy H. True Manager, Whaling Museum
Georgiann L. Phipps Director of Development
Katherine Walker Asst. Curator of Collections
Docents: Alcon Chadwick, Margaret Crowell, Anita Dougan, Edward Dougan, Barbara Johnston, Jane Jones, Elsie Niles, Alfred Orpin, Fredrick Richmond, Gerald Ryder, Leigh Simpson, Dorothy Strong, Margaret Trapnell, Mary Witt * "Historic Nantucket*** Edouard A. Stackpole, Editor Merle T. Orleans, Assistant Editor
Historic Nantucket Published quarterly and devoted to the preservation of Nantucket's antiquity, its famed heritaye, and its illustrious past as a whaliny port. Volume 36
Summer 1988
No. 2
CONTENTS Nantucket Historical Association Officers and Staff
2
Editorial: 1938 — Fifty Years Ago — 1988 by Edouard A. Stackpole
5
Restoration Plan Announced for the Old African Baptist Church on Nantucket by Edouard A. Stackpole
7
Enigmas of Early Nantucket by Roland L. Warren
11
Philip Morris: 'Sconset's Postmaster. Part II by John C. Lathrop
17
Review of Mary Coffin Starbuck and the Early History of Nantucket by Helen Winslow Chase Evolution of the Whale Oil Lamp by Laura Evans
26 29
Chapter 10 Addendum: Pitcairn Island and Its People
31
Chapter 11: Cruising on the Grounds
32
Historic Nantucket (UPS 246-160) is published quarterly at Nantucket, Massachusetts by the Nantucket Historical Association, 2 Union Street, P.O. Box 1016, Nantucket, MA 02554, to which address changes should be sent. Historic Nantucket is sent to Association members and extra copies may be purchased for $3.00 each. © N.H.A. 1988 (USSN 0439-2248). Member dues are: Individual $25, Family $40, Supporting $50, Contributing $100, Sponsor $250, Patron $500, Life Benefactor $2,500. Second-class postage paid at Nantucket, Massachusetts. Communications pertaining to the publication should be addressed to the Editor, Historic Nantucket, Nantucket Historical Association, Nantucket, Massachusetts 02554.
The Pacific Club as it looked in 1930
5
1938 - FIFTY YEARS AGO - 1988 By
Edouard A. Stackpole It hardly seems possible that a half century has passed so swiftly away. In 1938, Nantucket was enjoying the first flush of summer; but there was a different touch to the scene. The distant rumblings of the European problems were reaching around the world. The German juggernaut - the Nazi axis - had reached across eastern Europe. Adolf Hitler had lulled the leaders of the English, French and associate powers into a false sense of security. The result was inevitable. On Nantucket the business establishments were gearing for the coming summer. At a special election in February, Robert S. Backus was elected the Representative to the General Court, receiving 642 votes in the race against three opponents. Father Joseph M Grif fin, the popular priest at St. Mary's Church was tendered a testimonial upon the 25th anniversary of his taking over his pastorate here. Early in the year two prominent Nantucketers passed on - Sidney Mitchell in New York City, and Ormonde D. Ingall, the former head of the Island Service Company. For the first time, elec tric power was turned on for Pocomo in May, 1938. About the same time, the first Air Mail letters were sent from Nantucket. The death of James M. Barrett, at the age of 93, left but one Civil War veteran remaining on the Island - James M. Wood - the last survivor of the loyal band of Grand Army troops living in Nan tucket. A party of young people were stranded on the end of the jetties when their catboat struck the rocks and they stayed there until morning. The Misses Nancy Gardner, Barbara Melendy and Virinia Ball, and Benjamin and Peter Richmond and Carroll Johnson were taken on board the small tanker Isco after the fog lifted the next morning. Two weeks later, the cruiser Intrepid, III was stranded on a shoal off Tuckernuck and brought into this port. Three fires alarmed the town. Captain Folger's tour bus was destroyed at its garage in Surfside; Tom Nevers Lodge burned down at the headland of Tom Nevers, and the tri-motored Mayflower plane was a total loss at its field near the fourth milestone. Maurice Boyer, a well-known photographer, died. A few days later, the insurance and the Pacific National Bank prominent figure, Albert G. Brock, passed away at the age of 76. The dome of the Unitarian Church was re-gilded during the first weeks of September. The Rev. and Mrs. Fred D. Bennett were tendered a farewell party at Ben-
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nett Hall, on August 30th. The times have changed since 1938. The population has increas ed to three times what it was at that time, and the Old South Road has assumed a well-populated aspect. The automobile traffic has overwhelmed the summer scene and the outlying land has been engulfed by new houses. A return to older times would be welcomed. Edouard A. Stackpole.
7
A PLAN HAS BEEN ADVANCED FOR THE RESTORATION OF THE OLD AFRICAN BAPTIST CHURCH ON NANTUCKET By Edouard A. Stackpole
A few weeks ago, a letter arrived with the information that a campaign has been organized by a resident of Cambridge, Mass., whereby a fund is being raised to restore the original African Bap tist Church at the corner of Pleasant and York Streets. The Proper ty is now owned by William Higginbotham, a resident of Oakland, California, who has had some work done on the old structure, but who lacks the necessary funds to complete the project. Another supporter of the plan for a complete restoration is Byron Rushing, of the Museum of Afro-American History, who visited Nantucket some eight years ago, and discussed the restoration. The old Church was organized in 1827, after its original erec tion in 1826 as a school for the black population on Nantucket. The land on which the building was built was purchased from Jef frey Simmons, and conveyed to the Trustees of the African Baptist Society, as follows: Peter Boston, Absalom Boston, Michael DeLuce, and Charles Godfrey. After four years the African Baptist Church was reorganized, and successfully completed the task. An old docu ment tells the story, under date of May 24. 1831: The Lord having in his Providence cast the lot of those whose names are hereafter found as the Constituent members of the African Baptist Church on this Island, for from the Churches to which some of us formerly belonged, we felt it our duty and prin cipally to become a district Baptist Church. Pursuant to these impressioned on our minds we sent for Elder Seth Emers of Martha's Vineyard and Edward Harris of Hyannis, Barnstable, Pastors of Bap tist Churches in these Places, to take it into consideration, and in their opinion we were entitled to church privileges, to reorganize us as such. Accordingly they came, and after hearing us relate our Christian experiences and religious views, they have it as their opi nion that we ought to become a distinct Church, .....we were then publicly reorganized as the African Baptist Church, and received the hand of fellowship by Elder Harris and an address by Elder Emers. They then administered the Lord's Supper. The following
Miss Anna Gardner was an outstanding teacher at the African School.
Church Restoration Plan
9
are the names who constituted the Church at the beginning: John Barber. Mary Marsh, Charles Godfrey, Hannah C. Boston, Rhoda Boston, Sarah Dennison, Sarah Deluce, Charlotte Groves, Friscilla Thompson." The Church was re-organized again in April, 1848, on April the 7th. The Clerk at this meeting was the Rev. O.T. Walker, and the Rev. Tubal Wakefield, who with Sampson Alvin came from the Mashpee Church, became the Minister who preached on this occasion. The Rev. Wakefield was a visitor from the Second Barn stable Church on Cape Cod. From the Summer Street Baptist Church in Nantucket came the Rev. Reuben Jeffery Deacon, Alexander Swain, Watson Holmes, Stephen Easton, William C. Folger and Seth E. Swain, all members of the white fraternity. The area on Atlantic Avenue, Lower Pleasant Street, and on Silver Street was at this time known as "New Guinea." A second church for black residents had been erected on York Street, just above the African Baptist Church in 1835, called the Zion Methodist Episcopal Church. Arthur Cooper, an escaped slave, was an early minister in this church. The story of his rescue from a sheriff, who had come from Virginia to capture him, and ultimate escape, at his house on Angola Street, has appeared in past issues of Historic Nantucket. In 1823, the school for black children in the new schoolhouse on the corner of Pleasant and York Streets, had grown and 30 children were counted in 1828. The teacher was Anna Gardner, the daughter of Captain Alfred Gardner of Orange Street, who was a favorite for a quarter of a century, and who went to Virginia and North Carolina after the Civil War to continue her teaching of black children. The roster of children had increased to 48 children in 1841. A testimonial appeared in the local newspaper as follows, sign ed by William Coffin, and the Rev. Paul Swift, which reads as follows: The teacher in the black school is grateful of the opportunity to assist in elevating a race hitherto looked upon to a rank and sta tion, in which color shall no longer be considered a mark of ig norance...." In 1848. a newcomer came to the pulpit of the African Baptist Church. His name was the Reverend James E. Crawford, and he was an escaped slave and found a haven in Nantucket, like many others of his race. To liberate his sister, still held in slavery in Virginia, Crawford gave a series of lectures, to which he charg ed a small fee, and eventually raised the necessary funds. The Church was too poor to pay the Minister, and the Rev. Mr. Crawford open ed a barber shop on the waterfront, and supported himself for a number of years. He was also called upon to preach occasionally at the Summer Street Baptist Church, where he also gave some lec-
10
,
,,
/ jtf ' '. ins Nantucket's African Baptist Church, corner of York and Pleasant Streets, as it looked in 1912.
tures to raise money to aid the raising of money to pay for his sister's release. He was an active preacher for over forty years in the African Baptist Church in Nantucket. On the corner of Atlantic Avenue, facing Lower Pleasant Street stand several houses originally built by the black whalemen. Captain Absalom Boston built the second house from the corner. After a few voyages he decided on a new venture. He outfitted a schooner named the Industry, manned it with an entirely black crew, and made a whaling voyage to the West Indies and vicinity. Although not a full success, he completed the voyage and returned with all hands. He retired from the sea, open ed a store, and engaged in the real estate business for his neighbors in "New Guinea," as the neighborhood came to be known. Cap tain Boston's house was later lived in by Sampson Pompey, a Civil War veteran, whose delightful whistling will long be remembered by the school children of seventy-five years ago. The restoration of the old African Baptist Church is long over due. In 1979. the Department of the Interior designated the ancient structure an Historic American Building, but it needs action and its significance will bring another historic land-mark to Nantucket.
11
ENIGMAS OF EARLY NANTUCKET fey
Roland L. Warren (This article is excerpted with slight modifications from the final chapter of the author's Mary Coffin Starhuck and the Early History of Nantucket, published by Pinyry Press, Box 803, Andover, NY 14806.)
Every genealogist, historian, and biographer knows that the ef fort to track down what actually happened can often be engross ing. At times, one achieves a clear victory, putting to rest certain ambiguities with the aid of newly uncovered documents not utiliz ed by earlier writers; at other times, one establishes new facts only to find that they open up additional questions which remain unanswerable. Often, the task at hand is simply to come to the best conjecture as to what actually occurred, and in what sequence, by putting together all the information available and trying to make the best judgment possible. An example of a "new" fact not earlier reported had to do with Dionis Coffin's court case. In the year 1653, she was brought into court at Newbury, Mass., for violating a law passed by the General Court in 1645, fixing the price of a quart of beer at two pence, and fixing the quality at four bushels of malt to the hogshead. She was accused of charging three pence per quart, an apparent infraction. None of the written accounts of this event take into consideration that in 1651, the Court had passed a subsequent law specifying a sliding scale: one penny for two bushels per hogshead beer, two pence for four bushels per hogshead, and three pence for beer with six bushels of malt per hogshead. Thus, Dionis' price of three pence for the higher quality beer was entirely in conformity with the ex isting law of 1651, and she never should have been hailed into court. Similarly, those who have narrated the episode have neglected to mention that at the very time that Dionis' court case came up, the General Court rescinded the more per-missive legislation, uppon complaynt of sundry abuses & inconveniences by occasion of the libtie for sellinge beere at three pence the quart," and went back to the one quality-one price ruling of two pence per quart. Apparent ly, in accusing her, the authorities had overlooked the 1651 law, and, stung by their error in taking Dionis Coffin to court, they thereupon rescinded the law which had caused them the embarrassment. A more frustrating example is what happened to Edward Star-
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Historic Nantucket
buck's wife, Katherine, when he moved his family to Nantucket. There is no record of her having moved to the island, and there is no record of her death either on the island or on the mainland. The Genealogical Dictionary of Maine and New Hampshire claims, without documentation, that she was still living in 1678. Alexander Starbuck writes: His wife doubtless died in Dover." Anderson asserts, quite didactically, that when the first party landed on Nan tucket, Starbuck was a widower. Another writer even asserted that "both Tristram Coffin and Edward Starbuck were widowers." My first draft, therefore, had Katherine die before Starbuck settled in Nantucket; and in order to have her die, I made frequent mention of her declining health. It was only while examining probate court records in Concord, N. H. that I came upon a deed signed by both Edward Starbuck and his wife Katherine in 1678. The Genealogical Dictionary of Maine and New Hampshire had been right, after all. But until this discovery, how could I know? This new information only caused more perplexity, however. For although the deed, which pertained to land in Dover, N. H., was duly recorded, there was no indication where it had been signed by the two of them, and no indication where Katherine lived at the time. I spent hours and days trying to track down whether or not she ever moved to Nantucket with her husband. The alert reader may wonder why there is no mention of her in the treatment of the Starbucks on Nantucket. Reluctantly, I simply left her out of that part of the book. In most such incidents where different sources conflicted, I was not so cowardly. Rather, I examined all the sources and then made what seemed the most educated guess. Mary Starbuck's reputation as Nantucket's "great woman" derives principally from Richardson's use of that term twice in referring to her, and his employment of other terms of great praise. It seems supported by Thomas Story's favorable words about her, as well as his selecting her to be the one to start a Quaker Meeting on the island. Much of her alleged greatness stems from Richardson's allu sions to her as the "great woman." One can therefore imagine my shock when for purposes of verification.I perused a different edi tion of Richardson's journal, published by Quakers in Philadelphia in 1880, and found that in both of Richardson's crucial references to her, this edition said only "the woman," not "the great woman." Thus, this most important reference to her greatness" by an eye witness was placed in question. I therefore sought and found the earliest edition that I could get
Enigmas of Early Nantucket
13
my hands on, the third edition of 1759, and found there that both references were to "the great woman." So the "great" designation was not, as I had momentarily feared, a recent addition inserted by some enthusiastic editor, but antedated by over a century the Quaker edition which did not contain it. That was reassuring; hut the question remained: Why was the "great" adjective omitted from the 1880 Quaker edition? I do not know. Perhaps it was just an aberrant instance of the characteristic Quaker posture of "one downmanship— that is, to down-play alleged virtues as a defense against false pride. In this connection, the third missionary, Thomas Chalkley, wrote in his journal that "at this Time (1698) a Friend was convinced, whose Name was Starbuck, who became very serviceable...etc." It is customary among historians to identify Mary as this Starbuck; but a careful consideration of the flow of events regarding both Mary and her son Nathaniel impels me to the conclusion that Story was referring not to Mary but to her son Nathaniel, and that is the way this present hook treats it. There are numerous instances where the episodes reported in the present volume seemed likely, although they could not be established with certainty. Did Tristram and family come to Salisbury in Robert Clement's ship? It seems highly probable, since Clement was sailing at that time, and both he and Tristram were associates soon after in the purchase of Pentucket (now Haverhill). I have therefore followed Mirick and Allen Coffin in this assumption. Did James Coffin accompany the Macys in the fall of 1659 to spend the winter on Nantucket? I have found no authentic documentation for this, but most historians include him in the party, and I have done likewise. It seems strange that the Macy party would have risked settling in Nantucket so late in 1659, with winter almost upon them. Most writers say it was the fall of 1659. The poet Whittier had them flee ing to Nantucket the very day that Thomas Macy was discovered harboring the Quakers from the storm; but this immediacy seems apocryphal. The sequence, fairly well documented: The Court's war rant was dated October 18, 1659. Macy wrote his apologetic letter to the Court on October 27. The Court gave its decision in his case on November 12. That date would have been ominously late for Macy to move his family to the desolate west end of Nantucket, without shelter against the imminent winter. The penalty was not large (thirty shillings), and did not call for imprisonment, so there is little reason to believe that he was forced to leave at that late date.
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Historic Nantucket
On the contrary, knowing that he owned a share of Nantucket, and knowing that the court sentence might be more severe than it actually turned out to be, he might well have left before the sentence was passed, early enough to get at least a start toward a shelter against the winter on Nantucket. Given the known facts, this seemed to he the most plausible reconstruction. When did Tristram Coffin actually move his family to Nantucket? Mirick says in 1662 and Hinchman says in 1660. Starbuck leaves the question open, pointing out that the first documentary evidence of his settling there is the July 15, 1661 meeting of the proprietors on the island. Even the fact that they met there does not prove that all the signatories to that meeting actually were settled on Nan tucket at the time. I concluded, though, that Tristram probably mov ed his family there in the late summer of 1660. Incidentally, I had Tristram make an earlier trip to the island the preceding May, because that was the date of the deed to the island signed by the sachems Wanamamack and Nickanoose, at which time he was pro bably on the island to receive it. Did Tristam take his mother to Nantucket, along with the rest of his family? Sylvanus Macy, who said the move occurred in 1660, said that he did. But Mirick reports that "Joan, his mother, died in Boston, 1661, aged 77," and cites Sewall for the note that "Mr. Wilson preached her funeral sermon, and, as was then said, em balmed her memory." Mirick's version appears more convincing, and is supported by the Boston vital statistics record, listed for 1661: Joan Coffme deceased the 30th of May." So, Boston it was. Was Peter Folger ever a Quaker? Guba states that Peter Folger "embraced Quakerism in 1680, ten years before his death," but I find no basis for the statement. True, Hoyt, writing a few years later than Guba, also states that Peter Folger embraced Quakerism," but the use of precisely the same words suggests that he may mere ly have been repeating Guba's assertion. I do not give these asser tions credulity. Were Jethro Coffin and Mary Gardner married in the year 1686, and was this the year the Jethro Coffin house was built? The evidence is less than definitive on each count, but widely held tradi tion affirms 1686 as the date for both events, and I have found no reason to put them either earlier or later. Which Nathaniel Starbuck gave the land in 1709 for the first Quaker Meeting House? Leach states that it was Nathaniel, Jr., but a careful reading of the town meeting's record suggests that his father, Mary's husband, gave the land. In this connection, Leach also mentions that the first town meeting house was constructed
Enigmas of Early Nantucket
15
in 1717, but Starbuck, probably following Worth, cites a town record from June 4, 1707 designating William Gayer and Richard Gard ner to supervise repairs on the Town House. As a minor blessing, this date was not crucial to the present book. Without bothering to go into detail, it may be of interest to list some other problematical questions where I felt it necessary to make the most plausible conclusions based on inadequate data: In what year was Tristram Coffin first authorized to run the ferry between Newbury and Salisbury? Different records from the time vary from 1644 to 1647.1 hedged this one, but placed it some time after Mary's birth. When did Capaum Harbor close up? Fortunately, most of the con flicting reports place the event later than 1717, so I did not have to decide. Did Peter Coffin's sloops—and other sloops, as well—actually sail into and moor inside Capaum Harbor, as many authors report? My guess is that it was too shallow, and safer to moor outside. Was Mary Starbuck baptized by Peter Folger? Following several accounts, I guessed, "Yes," but without conclusive evidence. Unless some truly amazing discovery of other historical documents is made, we shall have to rest with the most plausible guesses that can be made on some of the details of this dramatic period of Nantucket's settlement. Nevertheless, the major historical outlines are well documented. It is a proud history deserving our attention and respect.
16
PHILIP MORRIS: 'SCONSET'S POSTMASTER FOR ALMOST THIRTY-FIVE YEARS By John C. Lathrop
(Continued from our Spring issue)
When word circulated that Anna Barrett was about to give up her long hold on the Post Office, three persons from the village were ready to contend for the office. Mrs. Morris, Nellie, was one - the only woman - and in the tradition, Rudolph Sharf, who lived on the south side near Low Beach, and, of course, Phil Morris. Max well Deacon, of the Nantucket Post Office, picked a day in February for a three hour examination. No interviews were held at the Old Town Building before or after the written examinations. On May 15,1928, Mrs. Charles Morris received a telegram from Washington for Phil. Although he was at work for Allie Pitman, greenskeeper for the Sankaty Head Golf Club, as a member of a seasoned crew rushing to open the course for a new year, his mother found him and reported that he had been appointed. He was to start at once. Phil had told the boss he liked so much, of his application, and the possibility of short notice, should he be successful. The office of Postmaster at 'Sconset was, at this time, an indepen dent one. Phil had a fixed amount of operating money, including an allowance for hiring seasonal help. Regulations were exact. Phil was responsible to the federal office in Boston and was subject to many unannounced inspections. Supplies came from Boston as well. During the summer season - June through September - the Postmaster was allowed hourly help. The pay for an "indefinite clerk" was low. Phil appointed this help and he was responsible for those he hired. He and the Village were blessed by unusual con tinuity, competence and loyalty. Over the years, the 'Sconset ladies associated with the Post Office were his wife, Nellie, Mrs. Ellenwood Folger, Sarah Morris, Mary Talford, Dorothy McCall, and Mary Egan. Lyla Folger, with her striking red hair, holds all Post Office continuous service records. She had worked under Anna Barrett. Deep in the Post Office's work space was a radio. If the Red Sox were playing, it would he turned on. Everyone knew that Phil was a prime fan, and that he would have current information on the Sox. Occasionally, Phil was able to get to Fenway to see a game. Mr. John Brush, whose house on the North Bluff was done by Fred Hill, was a baseball team owner who took Phil to games in Boston,
Historic Nantucket
17
possibly New York as well. Alan LeMair, nephew of Will Macy, at tended a number of games in New York with Phil. The fan remained in Phil, still healthy and, through television, added other sports to his interest in baseball. Bowling, golf - men's and women's - are the main ones. Time at the tube is essential whether in Florida or 'Sconset. Weekends little else is possible or likely. Shortly after Phil had lost his wife, he moved into the apartment behind and above the Post Office. Because of his love of sports, par ticularly Red Sox baseball, Phil bought a twelve inch television set. It was the first in 'Sconset. It was used and shared - mostly in the evenings by many regulars and some unexpected visitors. Their names appeared in the journal Phil had been keeping for himself since about 1928. One night an unknown lady knocked at the side door and introduced herself as Mrs. MacDonnell, the daughter of the world famous ballroom dancing team, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Mur ray. She said that she and friends had visited 'Sconset several times, and that she expected to be here with her parents later in the season. Phil was also told that the dancers were giving an exhibition on television in the near future and that, if possible, she would love to see it. This was arranged and all enjoyed the show. Late in the summer the Murrays called with their daughter. Mr. Murray gave Phil an autographed copy of a bi-ography concerning his life as a teacher and exhibitor. Patricia Collinge and her husband, Bill Smith, were anxious to see some dancing led by Fred Astaire. Phil made this possible. Miss Collinge was well known and highly respected in 'Sconset for her help at the Casino, for her wonderful contribu tions to the New Yorker, and, of course, for her many appearances on Broadway in New York. Her support of Tallulah Bankhead in the part of "Birdie" in "The Little Foxes" was greatly admired. The boys of 'Sconset were most interested in the Rolls Royce touring car Mr. Smith, her husband, used to pick up the family mail. John Salvis was not considered to be the friendliest man in 'Sconset but, as the only barber, the only garage man and the head of an important family, he was a man to be reckoned with. His steady wife rented rooms, his daughter, Eileen, and son-in-law, Gordon, ran the grocery store and meat market. John-the-barber and Eileen loved golf and they were good at it. It was a great pleasure for Phil and John to go to the links together. They liked and respected each other. When Phil lived at the Post Office, John gave him a winter garage for his car. Eileen was heard to say, somewhat in humor and amaze ment, that he would not do that for her.
A cottage on "Broadway," 'Sconset's favorite street
Historic Nantucket
19
The real proof of trust and respect, however, was a financial ser vice. For years, Phil made three deposits at the Pacific Bank. One deposit was for federal funds generated by the Post Office while the other two were accounts from businesses belonging to John Salvis. From Bud Egan and Clem Reynolds, in particular, both of whom wrote often of Phil's versatility, "extra mile" services were done - - even by the Postmaster himself; it is patent that the community credited Phil with being the ultimate source of all knowledge, and too many were not shy in asking Phil for such knowledge, and very often at most odd and inconvenient hours. It was forthcoming with patience, good humor and resignation. After the three departures and the three arrivals of the railroads at the first gully were no more, the Post Office became the mecca of the village. Everyone of most every age came to this center for mail, for gossip, for companion ship and excitement. The building itself was not the whole center. The "extended bench" toward the Casino, was the rest of it. When collecting or mailing, everyone spoke to Phil, possibly using the ben ches when Phil was there on his noon hour or after work, even into the long ummer evenings. On the benches, there was time for the best of stories, for gossip, for wit. The benches were also a part of the new transportation system (as the Bus Stop and outdoor waiting room). They still are, although most of the people who use the benches are not there to catch or meet a bus. Procedures were set out in Laws and Regulations manuals which covered all domestic and foreign traffic. The Post Office at that time had to be open six full days per week, with enough time on Sun day to get mail on the early boat at six a.m. Daily 'Sconset mail had to be prepared before four or five o'clock in the morning to be transported to the Steamboat Dock. For years, this was the job of Charlie Talford, who also drove the 'Sconset-Nantucket bus. He slept in the front or office section of Kenneth Coffin's garage on New Street, opposite the Casino and west of the Chanticleer. Very occasionally, Phil would have to rouse Charlie. At least once the boat responded to a call from Phil and "held" until the mail arriv ed. The lobby of the Post Office was open twenty four hours a day where a public telephone was available. Partly due to the telephone on the porch, this area was never lock ed, giving access to the mail drop. Phil was inspecting the area one dark morning and was surprised to find a wallet on a shelf near the phone. Inside, he found the identification of Sam Otis, an ar tist who lived opposite the Chapel on New Street, as well as three one hundred dollar bills and a twenty. Mr. Otis later asked the Post
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'Sconset Postmaster — Part II
Office if anything had been found and told of his loss. Phil asked for a description, produced the wallet, turning down the offer for a cash reward. Mr. Otis returned the next day to ask Phil what he smoked - cigars? cigarettes? - and received the answer "I don't smoke." He asked, "What do you drink?" Phil replied, "I don't drink." Looking very upset, Mr. Otis could only say, "Phil, you are a hard man!" That was the end of the matter. It was easy for Phil to prove himself before the general public, but the real test of being on top of the job was established and reestablished only before a good Official Post Office Inspector. When he appeared, all accounts were checked in detail. Phil liked the challenge and was never found off base. The same Inspector came for many years. One time there were two of them and the new man tried to prove Phil was wrong on some part of P.L. and R. (Postal Laws and Regulations). The three went to the hook which showed that Phil was absolutely correct. The usual Inspector was not surprised and was pleased for Phil. A rough Friday, Saturday and Sunday, toward the end of March, in 1956, may not have been the hardest or strangest in our Postmaster's life, hut they certainly were not routine and altogether pleasant days. The "Ink & M" thought they had a good story about their friend and gave the sequence a full column. The roar of 70 mph wind and a loud crash forced him out of bed. Without a coat, only in pajamas and slippers, he stepped out of his kitchen door on the northwest side of the Post Office. The wind closed and locked the kitchen door, greeting him with whirling snow. He moved the short distance west to the building's semi-open porch but of course, found no warmth or furniture or clothing there. He decided against going in his state of dress to Mildred Burgess' house on the east, or to the Rogers' on Main. He probably doesn't know how long it took to find the rock needed to smash the window, which made it possible for him to climb into the kichen. Sunday morning, he burned his bacon and started out for shellfish from Polpis Harbor. Near the water, his green truck became stuck in the mud up to the running board. Mr. Craig, uncle of Sandy, was unable to help him to get the truck free, but drove him to 'Sconset in time to get the mail from the steamer. Young Kenny Coffin used his big truck to get Phil's out of the Polpis mud. Yet as the after noon wore away Phil had the continued and compounded ill-fortune to jam his finger in the door of Kenny's truck. Quite a day! And the week before Palm Sunday! On August 27, 1962, at the 'Sconset Civic Association meeting in the Casino, a resolution was passed noting the long, loyal, outstan-
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ding service of Philip Morris in the Post Office in 'Sconset. The resolution was signed by Kenneth C. Eldridge as President of the Association and by Charles M. Goetz as Secretary. Merle Orleans' "Looking Backward," under 1963, ran the follow ing paragraph: On January 5 a gathering was held at the 'Sconset School to honor Phil Morris on the occasion of his retirement as 'Sconset Postmaster. He was presented a testimonial containing a long list of signatures, and a Longine watch suitably engraved. Philip Morris retired as Postmaster at the 'Sconset Post Office. Donald Terry was appointed Acting Postmaster. Phil had been Postmaster for 34 years." The list mentioned by Orleans was gathered with the help of Jean Davis Brown, Alden Buttrick, Esther Swain, Lyla Folger and others - over three hundred signatures in a memorial book which Phil pro udly shows now, twenty-seven years later. Alden Buttrick was treasurer in the project to raise funds for a government bond and for the engraved watch. The Selectmen, in January 1964, had their part in the retirement. The 'Sconset community had its pleasure of entertaining Phil at the school house. This was an outpouring of thoughts and feelings and, of course, the children had an important and remembered part. Over the years, Phil developed a fund of knowledge of the history of'Sconset, and a considerable collection of memorabilia. He loves to show his Nantucket Railroad Time Table: "No.l, June 7, 1910. Leaves 5:25 a.m., 12 noon, 5:00 p.m. Returns 11:15 a.m., 1:15 p.m., 7:15 p.m." His favorite photo among many maybe that of the HorseMobile. He had copies made for special friends. A favorite picture of his father hangs in the Post Office. His attested score card July 17, 1929, of a "76" at Sankaty is not the least of his personal treasures. He has copies of July 9, 1888, of the famous 'Sconset Pump, a heyday publication by professionals in 'Sconset. An advertising promoter at Philip Morris Incorporated, a suc cessful Park Avenue firm that makes six brands of cigarettes, four brands of beer and four brands of soft drinks, heard of 'Sconset's Philip Morris. The company's message was screamed at that time by a "hell hop." Call for Philip Morris!" was a theme that was becom ing too well known. Johnny, the bell hop, was brought to 'Sconset to meet Phil. They were photographed together across King Street from the house Phil and his father-in-law built in 1923, in front of Phil's second home called Lucky Strike. Phil and his wife Margaret commuted each winter to Pompano Beach, Florida, where Phil spent the first fifteen winters of his life as a "snow bird." Seated on the public benches, he passed the days
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'Sconset Postmaster — Part II
reminiscing with his cronies. Though he never commented on the condition of these Pompano sites, he favored the DPW resting places in 'Sconset next to the bus stand or by the comfort station west of Pump Square. Longtime friend, Merle Orleans, used to joke with Phil, "Where is the Morris chair?" and "Fog is made at Low Beach in 'Sconset, so that it can be sent to Nantucket." Alas, Phil outlived most of his pals, so there was little enjoyment bench-sitting in Florida. He strolled the beaches collecting a varie ty of exotic shells, the volume of which his good wife remonstrated would drive her out of her nest! His answer: Would you rather have me spend my time in bars?" The shells became a hobby in the glass porch of their upper King Street home. With the aid of glue, pliers, and a magnifying glass, Phil created shell birds, curios, knick-knacks, to sell or give away. In his "laboratory," he exercised his sharp mind and eyes, and en joyed his solitude. Phil happily showed visitors his workshop/porch, and a lifetime of collected photographs taken by him, as well as many others. Some photos predated Phil. Most told an important part of the 'Sconset story. Today, Phil and Margaret's step-son, his son, and Phil's grand son do valuable maintenence on the grounds and the house called Lucky Strike, which was erected fifty years ago by Phil's father-inlaw, a Nantucket-Quidnet builder, while Phil laid the basement. 'Sconseters Dick Coffin and Merle Orleans wanted Phil to know that the festive decorations in the Post Office were hung by Marty McGowan. Christmas brought unusually fine dressings for the Of fice building and Memorial area by Kenneth Eldridge, Marty, Bun ny Evans, Helen Roberts Matthews, Bill and Maria Roberts, the DPW and the Electric Company, as well as other good civic souls. Phil Morris, born in the last few years of the nineteenth cen tury, and surviving nearly to the end of the twentieth, experienced much change. A village with grassy streets rambled by cows, chickens, sheep, and horses became a busy town peopled by tourists, filled with houses and resorts. Members of the community whom he knew well as Postmaster and citizen were replaced by a flow of strangers. But friends remember fondly the genial Phil Morris who died early this month in his Florida home. Isabel Veit, one of Phil's friends, in the I & M of December 21, 1962 has given a gem of thanks from all of us: Phil Morris knows of friendship, and a friend he is to all, Oldtimer and newcomer, to the children big and small. He's thoughtful, kind, efficient, even if the going's rough, When crowds outside the window charge he isn't fast enough, Or when the fog is thicker than a hearty Irish stew, His cheery smile
'Sconset's lanes wind through the original fisherman s village.
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'Sconset Postmaster — Part II
and greeting is like sunshine breaking through. Was born and bred in "Sconset, schooled in truth by which to live, A diligence to duty means, thy whole self thou must give A stickler for adherence to the rules of ev'ry game, So notable and ordinary man he treats the same. A well of information, yet no secret would divulge, Nor had the inclination with the gossips to indulge. He always puts himself right in the other fellow's spot, And does what he would have him do if trouble were his lot. Has shared Thanksgiving turkey and his Christmas dinner too, With those who would be otherwise deserted, alone and blue. Remembering lean years of youth, determined with a will, The 'Sconset kids in Boston had a treat from Uncle Phil. The measure of his giving really never can he made, He has left his mark on 'Sconset and his image will not fade. He served us with devotion, he's a giant in our book, His greatness grew from little things most people overlook. Blest be his years of leisure, with the long days sunny bright, Each hour filled with pleasure, ev'ry mo ment a delight.
Philip Morris died at his home in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on Friday, June 17, 1988, of a lingering illness. He is survived by his wife Margaret.
The train arrives in 'Sconset
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Book Review Mary Coffin Starbuck and the Early History of Nantucket. By
Roland L. Warren. (Andover; NY: Pingry Press, 1987. Pp. 286. Hard cover, $19.95. Paperback, $12.95]
Maty Coffin Starbuck's life is the compelling tale of a remarkable woman in 17th century Nantucket. Her biography, written by Roland L. Warren as historical fiction based upon exhaustive research, begins in 1644 with her role as the daughter of Tristram Coffin and his wife, Dionis. Coffin was an important citizen in a succession of early Massachusetts Bay Colony communitiesHaverhill (Mary was born there), Newbury and Salisbury-before he became the leading proprietor of Nantucket, where he and his family settled permanently in 1660 when Mary was sixteen. On occasion, to aid the reader in exploring the maturing thoughts of the heroine, Warren has created a plausible diary, which he uses sparingly but to good effect. Her story ends with her death on the Island in 1717. In 1662 Mary Coffin became the competent, caring wife of Nathaniel Starbuck. He is portrayed as a strong partner and an enterprising, responsible citizen with firm political convictions of his own-not always shared by Mary. To the role of busy mother of their ten children she added the complexities of operating a general store in those days when money was scarce and bookkeep ing often involved translating bartered work and goods into credit. Her role of storekeeper required the perceptive Mary to make direct community decisions, and as trusted wife and as business woman with valued opinions, she must have had many chances to exert influence in local matters large and small. Mary Coffin Starbuck's role as religious leader is traced from her earliest searchings for Supreme guidance. As the daughter and neighbor of theological non conformists in sympathy with Anabaptist, Presbyterian and Quaker doctrines, content to be separated from the Puritan oligarchy of Massachusetts and in no hurry to form congregations, she must have spent many hours developing her religious convictions through Bible reading and conversations with neighbors and itinerant ministers, to have arrived at the stage observed by Quaker Thomas Story in 1704. Story described her, at 60, as "...a wise, discreet
26
Book Review
woman, well read in Scriptures....in great reputation throughout the island for her knowledge in matters of religion, and an oracle among them on that account, in so much that they would not do any thing without her advice and consent therein." He then asked her to form a local meeting of the Society of Friends. Husband Nathaniel, as ever centered in his own decisions, supported wife Mary's and son Nathaniel Jr.'s espousal of the Quaker, faith but did not join until 1709. Roland L. Warren has carefully researched his subject. He writes from a rich background as sociologist, Gug genheim Fellow, author and, more recently, playwright of the delightful Theatre Workshop production of "An Old Feud and a New House," in celebration (1986) of the 300th anniversary of the Oldest House on Nantucket. He makes excellent use of solid secon dary sources and the limited primary sources available, and skillfully threads his way through a confusion of myths, oral tradition, and inaccurate interpretations of previous historians, genealogists and authors. Much can be learned about the detective work of historical research by examining Warren's Post Script: Fact, Fiction and Con jecture." His bibliography is an invitation to good reading about Nan tucket, its settlers and families; about New England history, genealogy, and towns; about Quakers; and about writing biographies. His wife, Mary Hodges Warren, violin maker, is responsible for the book's exceptionally clear maps and attractive cover design. Those interested in Nantucket and Nantucketers will certainly want to read this warm, sensitively-written biographical portrait of the Island's earliest known woman of distinction and the times in which she lived. Mary Coffin Starbuck was, indeed, a great woman." (Helen Winslow Chase, a member of the Nantucket Historical Association Council, is Historian for the First Congregational Church of Nantucket and author ofjethro Coffin House Chronology 1686-1986.)
American woodcut showing a whale-oil lamp with one wick from American Heritage Magazine
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THE EVOLUTION OF THE WHALE OIL LAMP By Laura Evans Whale oil lamps are fascinating phenomena of early 19th Century America. They were immediately embraced by the public and im mensely popular for nearly fifty years. Really a sub-category of fluid burning lamps, they provided incredible improvement over messy tallow candles and other primitive lamps with open fonts, which were used for artificial light. In the 1820's with the increasing demand for better lighting and the scientific and technical ability to produce it, came the whale oil lamp. In addition to a more industrialized society, the spread of education to more people, and the introduction of newspapers, hooks and popular magazines, there emerged a desire for more ef ficient, better lighting. Most lamps then burned lard, various vegetable oils or fish oils. Whale oil became a popular burning fluid in the very late 1820's. In the 1850's camphene was introduced. Soon afterward, other volatile fuels were developed until, in the 1860's, kerosene was discovered. It was later replaced by gas. Whale oil was especially popular as an illuminant in New England where whaling was a major industry. Some scholars believe that as early as the 1770's Richard Wistar, friend of Benjamin Franklin's in Philadelphia, was producing glass lamps with closed fonts to hold whale oil. This progress was stopped in 1776 by the Revolutionary War, and Wistar died in 1781. Others report this major develop ment took place in 1787 with the Englishman, John Miles' inven tion of the "agitable lamp which featured a closed font to prevent spilling. This invention, along with a series of burner modifications led to the usage of precious whale oil aboard ship, in carriage lanterns, and finally, in the domestic interior. America was a thrifty and enterprising new nation, and in response to these developments the peg lamp was introduced. Peg lamps were first mentioned in a New England Glass Co. advertise ment of May 1, 1822. Since the peg lamps were not mentioned as a new or novel idea, they predate 1822, certainly. After the peg, wineglass lamps were introduced. These were made by using established wineglass-blowing techniques, were small, low and us ed as chamber lamps primarily. These predate table lamps or work lights. However, in 1825, Deming Jarves of the Boston and Sand-
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wich Glassworks advertised a new type of lamp as a "high blown stem lamp." This led to the invention of a practical lamp for general purposes in which the flame would be 7-10 inches above the sur face on which it stood. Now the light would shine down on the surface not simply across it. These new table lamps featured an elongated blown glass stem. At first, this central hollow shaft was rather awkward and fragile, so without lowering the height of the lamp, the shape and weight of the base were altered to make it less likely to tip. Next, the free blown spherical font was elongated to a pearshape and its base became a series of ascending steps. With time, the middle column was shortened until it was just a small hollow knob, and finally a solid, thin wafer, which then served on ly to attach the font to the pressed base. In the 1840's both base and font were pressed and joined while hot with a glass wafer; and by 1876, Atterbury in Pittsburgh, adver tised that they could finally press lamps in one part, which made them "stronger." The evolution of the detachable burner, which began as a cork insert to hold the wick vertically, later became a tin, brass or pewter threaded burner which screwed into a collar affixed to the glass font. Fluid lamps were often elaborately made but worked on a simple principle. Oil rose through the wick by capillary action and was consumed with much odor and smoke. They were made by many companies; however, the two most prolific were New England Glass Company of East Cambridge, Mass. (established 1818), and the Boston and Sandwich Glass Co. of Sandwich, Mass. (1825). There were no design patents for these lamps, so attribution after 1825 becomes rather complicated. From 1828 onwards, with the American invention of the glass pressing machine, lamps were manufactured in a staggering number of patterns. The whale oil lamp was an essentially American innovation which combined ingenuity and practicality in a utilitarian object of unique importance to the history of lighting devices in America. For nearly fifty years it had an enormous impact on the quality of light - and life.
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Chapter 10 - addendum PITCAIRN ISLAND AND ITS PEOPLE For Ship POTOMAC Obituary Captain George Palmer, a worthy citizen and ship master and most highly respected citizen, died at his home on Orange Street in July 1880, in his 73rd year. He rose to the quarter deck at an early age and commanded the PACIFIC of New Bedford, afterward the MARINER, from Nantucket and lately the NAVIGATOR, in which ship he made two successful voyages. Retiring from the sea in 1854, he has enjoyed a quarter century of ease and retirement, but has for some time past been in failing health. Obituary Captain Reuben Hobbs was a native of Rhinebeck, New York. As a young man, he learned the trade of miller and at 21 drifted to Nantucket. He sailed his maiden voyage on the POTOMAC, with Captain Isaac Hussey. The next voyage was with Captain Oliver C. Swain,as 2nd mate. Later he sailed his third voyage with Cap tain Charles Grant, as 1st mate. He was later Master of the ISAAC HOWLAND and then the ABBY BRADFORD, Captain John Mur ray of Nantucket. After retiring from the sea in 1870, he became keeper of the Bug Lights near Polpis, Nantucket Island. He died in 1905.
Chapter 11 Cruising on the Grounds While Nancy had been living in this little Paradise, Charles was cruising on the grounds. He and Captain Palmer left this island on the 19th of July and headed for Easter Island. They raised Easter Isle and sent two boats ashore for yams "off and on for a few days and bringing potatoes and yams on board." All through August he was in company with several Nantucket and New Bedford whalers - the REBECCA SIMMS, ROSCOE, Bark MARY FRASIER, CATAWBA, SPARTAN, and he spoke of the NAVIGATOR, which had taken 60 hbls. since leaving Pitcairn. Mr. Chapman, the 4th Mate was discharged and went on the CATAWBA.
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In January 1851, they were recruiting at Port Anna Maria at Nukuhiva Island, and on the 21st bid adieu to Nukuhiva and headed for Pitcairn. In the meantime, Captain Palmer had gone to the Island, having arrived there October 2nd and heard the sad departed news of the death of Mrs. Palmer. He stayed for a week or so, then departed on October 10th. The PERUVIAN writes in its log for Januaray 20,1851: onboard, one of the POTOMAC'S crew, having been secreted forward since leaving Nukuhiva." In February 1851, the log of the POTOMAC reads: Saw land off the lee beam supposed to be Hood Island (this island is not laid down on the chart). Lat. by observation - 22:50 no. Long, by Chronometer - 136:30." On the 13th of February, they are outside Pitcairn and the log states: Latter part Captain Grant went ashore and found a young heir." There was much rejoicing for the next few days. Then it was time for Nancy and the baby to go aboard with Charles for the re mainder of the voyage. They left Pitcairn the 19th of February, 1851. The natives were lined up at the shore en masse to see the depar ture and to bid farewell to Nancy. She left many friends back on the island and it was to her pleasure to see more of some of them in the future. Now Nancy was to have a problem: caring for the baby. No baby milk was aboard so he throve on cocoanut, grated and boiling water poured over it and strained, also goat's milk. There were no services on the ship to help care for the baby; the laundry alone must have been a perplexing problem. However, with the help of Charles and the officers, she made things very comfortable. Through the remainder of the year, the ship was cruising and catching whales. In May, they were near Christmas Island and stood in for it. They saw a whale boat on shore, sent a boat ashore to see what it was, but it proved to be branded. BAYLEY - N.B. Through the remainder of the month of June they are catching whales. They spoke to JASPER several times. In July, they were stowing down 100 bbls of oil. They passed Jarvis Island, bound for the Navigators. On the 13th a partial eclipse of the moon was visible. July 17th the Tutuilla was raised, and anchor set in Pago Pago Harbor. A raft went ashore for water and washed the ship outside. A larboard watch was kept on liberty ashore. On the 19th, Deputy Consul Gibson came aboard. This day was kept as Sunday so all went to church, as well as the following Saturday.
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Cruising on the Grounds
On the 17th, they waited for a fair wind to go to sea. On the 31st they are steering for Upolu, arriving at 4 p.m. Ship off and on, boats ashore. The 2nd of Aug, three men missing from the ship, William Griffis, Charles Shepard, and John F. Collins supposed to have jumped overboard and swam for shore distant about 3/4 miles; as there had been neither boat nor canoe off the shore, went after them, boat went ashore and brought back runaways. Tied them up in the rigging and gave them a dozen, (they were about four hours in the water). Thomas Tobey died of consumption on the 20th of August 1851. On September 1st, George Morris died after an illness of three weeks, of a disease of the heart. Next day consigned the body of Morris to the deep after a service being read. It was always a sad time for Nancy when a sailor died and was prepared to be buried in the ocean. It seemed so sad to think of the families of the men and how they would feel when the ship returned without their loved one. On the tenth of October, spoke with RICHARD MITCHELL, Cap tain Robert M. McCleave. Whales were sighted and three boats were lowered and one capsized and another stove, lost the whale. Reached Hope Island and canoes came off and Charles shipped two natives. While off Roaches Island, ten canoes came off, sent one of the natives ashore and shipped two more from this island, Robert and Harry. On November 21st, gammed the PHOENIX which was bound for New Zealand and kept in company for a few days. Raised a school of sperm and lowered from both ships, struck and killed one. PHOENIX cut him in, boats still in pursuit. On the 28th, spoke with the PHOENIX and got our share of the oil 9 1/2 bbls. Busy coopering and stowing down. On the 1st of December raised Norfolk Island and put in. Nancy went ashore with the baby for a few days change. They were off and on for about a week, with much rough weather. The ship LAGODA of N.B. Captain Tobey was spoken. The boats came off with potatoes and other vegetables and eleven pine boat's masts. After getting one fog they finally bid adieu to Norfolk Island. Now it is January 1852, and they are anchored at Bay of Islands in New Zealand and, here Nancy and baby Charlie went ashore to stay for a while at the home of Captain and Mrs. Ernest Ford, who were to become dear and faithful friends of all Nantucket whal ing wives. On the 17th of March they are cruising for whales on the line. The steward was put in irons for being abusive and clinching the
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Captain. Later, he was allowed his freedom. In May they spoke to the SPARTON, Captain James Wyer, who was a cousin of Nancy's. They had a grand gam. He could bring them much news as he was only 8 months out. They purchased a cask of bread from the SPARTON. It was discovered that cockroaches had started about 20 bbls of water, so they must make port as soon as possible. On the 13th day of July they made Upolu, took pilot and anchored in Apia harbor. Took pipes ashore for water. Lying off the harbor was the ship OLIVER CROCKER, Capt. William B. Cash, another Nantucket cap tain and an old friend of the Grants. Five men deserted, John Adams, William Griffith, —Collins, Charles Shepard, Horace Hewitt. Later all were brought back and put in irons. Nancy was to know this island of Upolu somewhat better in later years. They took anchor on the 31st and headed for Savai where they sent boats ashore trading for hogs, potatoes, bananas, etc. In September, they are again at Hope Island and discharge the natives, Bob, Jack, and Thomas, and shipped two more. Stood off to the E.E. and later seven canoes came off, the two natives they had shipped had deserted and were obliged to ship two more. A plank was plucked up supposed to be from deck of some wreck. Caught three barracudas. In December, they are again at Norfolk Island, and Nancy went ashore for a few days. While here, they got a barge load of wood and four large hogs, besides a boat load of limes. On the 11th left the Island. Took two whales in the next few days, one boat got lost and had to stay out all night. She later fell in with the ship. Now it is Jan. 1853 so they stood in for Bay of Islands and anchored in Bay of Carrataca in company with the COVINGTON, Capt. Newman. The MARTHA of N.B., came in later and the CHARLES W. MORGAN from San Francisco. 30 Aug. The anchor broke ground on the 19th and set them adrift, hove it up and warped her back again, took anchor later and set out for the Horn and homeward bound. A few notes from the ship's log of the YOUNG HERO, Capt. Samuel Wyer, accompanied by his wife, probably relates events that could happen to Nancy Grant on board ship. March 14th, 1853 Mrs. Wyer and child Charlotte Elizabeth accompanied Capt. Wyer on this voyage. Been sick several days. Hearing lessons; sewing; sit-
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Cruising on the Grounds
ting on deck in Capt's chair just outside the gangway door. Knit ting. Plenty of flying fish. Dress up Sunday. House on deck with a wet sink, heat water on charcoal stove. Sofa, carpet & rocking chair. Hogs, pigs, turkeys, hens and all run the deck. Canary and dog. Sit in starboard to watch cutting in, all day sometimes. Get sun and wind burned. Can't talk, crew from officers when sliding around on greasy deck when cutting in. Couldn't do any deck walking for three days, but finally cleared space and sanded it for us to walk on. Boiled all night, pigs weaned and were squealing all the time. Capt. busy mending boats and tryworks. Learned to work the longitude, soon learned. Boatsteerer played blind mans bluff and hide and seek with child. Made molasses candy. Poor molasses, burned one lot. No good. Distress, emetic and salts and tincture of rhubarb, to child. Sew ing worsted work, pin cushion top, lamp mats and knitted book marks were the chores of the day. Talcahuana Bay - visited by Capt. of the Port. Custom House of ficer. Then came Andrew Morton, Capt. Joseph Mitchell and Esq. Crosby and others. Mitchell brought news from home. Later on shore with Esq. Crosby and invited to his house. Mrs. Crosby a very fine woman. Went to Conception for a cruise. Wore long shawl on deck when cool. There is no doubt but that all these doings would have been the same for Nancy hut she kept no journal that we could ever find Charles kept a journal of every voyage he went onbut they were later taken for scrap books, and no one knows what became of them. On March 5th they raise the Horn, struck a gale and carried away the larboard cat-head, threw the anchor on deck. Took in all sail but close reefed main top sail and reefed foresail. Later gale still increasing, and at 6 p.m. laid to under close reefed main top sail, lost gangway over board and rail. Next day the starboard boat. On the 15th they have finally got as far as river De La Platte. Now they are readying up for home, painting ship, outside and in. Now it is May 5th and they are bound north of Bermuda. Throw the try-works overboard, the usual custom for all homeward bound ships. April 9th they sound in 15 fathoms of water, clack and white sand. At daylight Montauk Point in sight 20 miles away. Stood off N.E. by E. for Block Island and on the 10th took pilot off Block Island, and at last raised Gay Head light and at 10 a. m. an chored at the wharf at Woods Hole. Next day the ship arrived at Nantucket, and the Sea Faring Grants were indeed glad the voyage was over and that all were safe and sound. Charles had a very successful voyage bringing in 1976 bbls. of
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sperm and 5 bbls. of whale oil. He had shipped 50 bbls. of sperm home. Charles had now ended his 7th voyage and was 38 years old. He had certainly gained a reputation as a successful captain both in Nantucket and New Bedford, and in other ports. He had earned a well deserved rest from the sea for a few months. Nancy was happy to be back on shore, but was all ready and willing to go again on the next voyage. Come all you bold seamen, who traverse the main, Through perils and dangers, your fortune to gain, We'll not be down-hearted, such feelings we'll spurn, And make ourselves happy with thoughts of return." To be continued.
The Chase-Paddock House on India Street
