In 1834, a Harvard student enlisted as a common seaman--the result was this adventure classic. Crackling with realism, it offers memorable views of a dangerous voyage, vividly describing storms, whales, an insane captain, excruciating hardships, and magical beauty, as well as fascinating historical detail, including a portrait of California before the gold rush. Reprint of the James R. Osgood and Company, Boston, 1876 edition.
The Seaman’s Friend: A Treatise on Practical Seamanship by Richard Henry Dana, Jr. An authentic look at the standard operating procedures aboard a 19th-century ship by the author of Two Years Before the Mast, from tying knots to quelling a mutiny. Glossary.
Superstitions of Sailors by Angelo S. Rappoport Intriguing legends from around the globe evoke a magical maritime world, with sightings of phantom galleys, mischievous deeds of mermaids and water sprites, and tall tales of enchanted islands.