Mary Brewster’s journal for her voyage from 1845 – 1848 ended on March 8, 1848 when the Tiger arrived home (Stonington, CT). Mary and her husband, Samuel did not return to sea for their last voyage until June 1848. However, Mary’s journal-writing did not resume until July 13, 1848. Therefore, Mary Brewster’s entries will resume on this blog starting July 13, 2013.
Mary Lawrence, [Mon.] May 25 [1859]: “The gale yesterday lasted until about 12 P.M. last night. Seven ships in sight during the day. About 2 P.M. we lay aback for the Speedwell to come down to us, which she did. Captain and Mrs. Gibbs came on aboard, and we had a right good time. Captain and Mrs. Taber of the Augusta were in sight. After tea spoke the Caroline, of Greenport. Captain Pontus came on board and passed the evening. Mrs. Gibbs brought lozenges and me some salt codfish, which was very acceptable. We gave them some pickled mullet and some figs, also a leg of pork, and some books. We heard from the captains that several small whales had been taken close by the land. There is where they all expect to find them by and by. Consequently the ships are very plenty; it is supposed there are ninety ships here, but many of them will soon leave for the Arctic unless whales are seen more plenty than they have been. The gale of the fourth was felt very sensibly here. The Arab, of Fairhaven [MA], was dismasted partially. Captain Grinnell has his lady on board.”
Eliza Williams made sporadic journal entries during May 1861. May 25th [1861]: “It has been foggy a good deal and some rainy. The Land is in sight today. My Husband has been down to try his new boat sail that he has been making. We are now off Victoria Bay. The Land all about is high and there is snow on the tops.”
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