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Outfits for a Whaling Voyage [heading on p. 1]. [Cover title in manuscript: Outfits Bark Martha Jas E. Stanton Master Sailed Oct. 1872].

New Bedford, [C. R. Sherman & Co.?], 1872. 12mo, original blue wrappers with manuscript title on upper cover. 36 printed pp. with manuscript additions, 11 ruled pp. of manuscript notes, additional blank ruled pp., ads affixed to inside of covers; note at head of upper cover “235 37/100 Tons No. 17557”.

A fascinating whaling voyage outfit book, replete with manuscript annotations, providing a vivid glimpse into the whaling business in the third quarter of the nineteenth century.

Likely published and sold by C. R. Sherman & Co. of New Bedford, dealers in nautical instruments, charts and nautical stationery whose ads appear herein, this printed outfit book consists of sections devoted to provisions and cabin stores, medicinal items, casks, try pots, sheathing copper, chains and anchors, chandlery, sail needles, tools, nautical instruments, and so on. Lists of particular items, often extensive, appear under each of these headings, and are annotated throughout with quantities and other specifics. The list of foodstuffs includes eight additional items in manuscript—roast beef and oysters among them. The ruled pages following the printed section include a list of charts obtained for the voyage, as well as notes on casks of sperm oil and humpback oil shipped home and sold, with sections and amounts for head and body oil, and the dollar amount yielded.

The 235 ton bark Martha was engaged in whaling from at least as early as 1850. The present voyage was her last. Leaving New Bedford in October of 1872, she was condemned at the Bay of Islands in November of 1874.

CONDITION: Good, wrappers rubbed, toned and slightly chipped.

Item #4579

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