An ocean voyage from Maryland to the California gold rush.
HIS ANCESTRY
Nicholas Worthington Hammond (1822-1916) was descended from Major
General
John Hammond through his maternal and paternal lines. His wife,
Mary Ellen
Wood, was also a descendant of John Hammond.
John Hammond arrived in Annapolis, Maryland in 1685. He enjoyed a
long and
illustrious carreer as a civil servant serving as a burgess in 1692;
judge
of The High Court of the Admiralty; Colonel of Forces, Ann Arundel
County
in 1699; and Major General of Western Shore in 1707. He married
Mary Howard
circa 1670. A record of Hammond's life and work can be found in
the Vestry
records of St. Anne's Church, Annapolis, Maryland and in whose cemetery
he
is interred.
lie was one of the commissioners who, in 1694, laid out lots and
organized
the town of Annapolis. At the time of his death he was a member
of the
Vestry of St. Anne's; the church record reads, "lion. John Hammond,
Esq.,
Major General of the Western Shore of Maryland, one of her Majesty's
most
honorable council and Judge of the High Court of Admiralty in the
Province
of Maryland, was buried the 29th of November, 1707."
John Hammond was survived by his wife, Mary Howard Hammond, and his
sons:
Thomas, John, William and Charles.
The founder of the Hammond family is said to be Sir Robert Fitzhamon,
seventh Count of Eat of Corbeile in Normandy, who accompanied William
the
Conqueror of England. The family held high office during the reigns
of
Charles I and 11. Dr. John Hammond was court Physician to James
1; his son
was Chaplain to Charles 1; another son went to Virginia and later
wrote a
book, "Leah and Rachel" which described the colonies. A third son
served in
Cromwell's Army. Robert Hamond, son of Thomas, grandson of Dr. John
Hammond
was governor of the Isle of Wight.
The first member- of the Hammond family in Maryland was Major General
John
Hammond, who was born on the Isle of Wight in England and immigrated
to
Maryland in 1685.
THE CALIFORNIA GOLDRUSH
Nicholas Hammond spent his formative years growing up in Maryland
surrounded by a large and supportive family. His forefathers had
immigrated
to the Maryland Colony in the early 17th century. By the beginning
of the
19th century, the American Frontier had moved westward but the immigrants
continued to arrive.
In 1834, when Nicholas was but twelve years old, John Augustus Sutter
immigrated to the United States, settling in California in 1839.
Sutter
made the Sacramento Valley which was a Mexican province, his home,
receiving 49,000 acres from the Mexican government. Sutter then
became a
citizen of Mexico.
His settlement, boasting a fort, mill, and many other buildings,
was called
New Helvetia; it is now the city of Sacramento.
Although he was a citizen of Mexico, when the Calfornians revolted
against
Mexico, Sutter allied himself with the Americans. California became
a
territory of the United States on the 15th of August 1846.
While digging a site for a new mill at Sutter's settlement, gold
was
discovered on 24 January 1848. News spread like wildfire; hundreds
of men
poured into the valley. The majority of them arrived at Sutter's
Mill in
1849, when the nickname, forty-niners.
Many of the new arrivals were unmarried men. Easy money, speculation,
and
reckless living were common. Just as common were claim jumping,
robbery,
and murder. Into this valley came twenty-seven year old Nicholas
Hammond,
his brother Worthington, and cousin Phillip in order that they might
make
their fortune.
Was it the lure of gold, the excitement of the unknown, or the adventure
of
travel that enticed these three men from their homes? Their reasons
for
going have been forgotten with the passage of time. Plans were made;
provisions stored; passage was arranged. They departed Baltimore
on the
third of February 1849. Ahead lay California and the sparkle of
gold.
-2
HIS DIARY
A SKETCH OF A TRIP ON BOARD SHIP HYLON
BOUND FOR SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA
Saturday, Feb 3, 1849 - First day was beautiful. We left Baltimore
about 12 o'clock. The sun shone out most beautifully with a
delightful breeze. We soon left old Baltimore far behind, perhaps
never to look upon its monuments again. We sailed about 60 miles
down the Bay and then had to anchor in consequence of the wind
changing its course. We had to lay at anchor until the next day
at
about 6 o'clock in the morning when they hoisted sail and was off
again for the Promised Land. But we was doomed to be again
disappointed in our progress. About 11 o'clock that night had to
anchor again, the wind being the main cause, and raining, snowing,
and hailing, making it very disagreeable indeed. We was again off
on
our way Monday evening, the wind having changed its course
favorable. Still it continued raining until Tuesday morning when
it
cleared off beautifully and with a fine breeze. lie cleared Cape
Henry about 4 o'clock that evening, when the pilot had to leave
and
return to Baltimore. We all seemed to enjoy good health until we
launched in to the Atlantic Ocean. Then the ship began to rock very
much, making the passengers very sick. On Wednesday the majority
was
seasick together with myself. I must say that it is a dreadful
sickness. One does not care whether he is dead or alive, cannot
eat
anything, and is constantly throwing up. We experienced a heavy
rain
storm crossing the Gulf Stream. I thought that we would be lost
any
minute. The Captain thought that he had never experienced such a
one
crossing the stream. All of the passengers were seasick, making
it
more disagreeable than it would have been had all been well. I may
also mention a circumstance that occurred during the storm in which
myself was concerned. I was up on deck when the sea began to get
rough and I found that I was about to get seasick. I went down in
the steerage and found cousin Phillip Hammond dreadfully frightened.
I asked him what was the matter. He replied that some one said that
the ship was about sinking. There w4s a man swearing beside him,
who
ought to be praying. Finally he got hole of the man and entreated
him not to swear as now was the time to be praying. I tried to
comfort him by telling him that the ship was not sinking. And
although I myself was sick, I could not help laughing. He replied
that now was the time to pray not laugh. He stomped off and went
to
bed frightened out of his senses. Next day one could not laugh at
the other, all feeling so bad. I did not eat a mouthful of anything
for 8 days. When I could eat after the 8 days it was such as
biskets. Brother Worthington
-3
Hammond who was along was not so sick as I was, having a stronger
constitution than I had. During our seasickness I thought that I
would give any amount of money if I could only be at home again
with
Mother, sister and brothers. But now I begin to feel better and
my
appetite is returning. I would not return if I could. The fare is
dreadful and it is now two weeks since I left Baltimore and I have
not eaten 50e, worth of the provisions on board, only what we brought
with US.
My intention was to keep a strict account of all that happened on
board, each day separate, but I was so sick during the first two
weeks that I could not sit up to write. Indeed, I am now lying down
on my berth writing, being too weak to sit up. We have had a
dreadful time since we left Baltimore, raining every day until today
which is Sunday. We have a beautiful day. The sun shines out warm
and clear as a bell. We had a religious meeting today for the first
time. I hope that it will be kept up during the voyage. We are now
in the trade winds about 2500 miles from Baltimore, running south
by
southeast with a tolerable good breeze. All the men is out sunning
themselves on deck, some reading the Bible, some one thing and some
another.
Although our voyage is yet in its infancy, only two weeks out, still
I must say that I look back and hope that we may be successful in
once more returning to our native home when we will be greeted by
kind and affectionate parents, sisters, brothers and friends.
Monday Feb 19, 1849 - Today is a beautiful day with a fine breeze.
We are sailing at the rate of 7 knots per hour. We have not seen
any
other vessel since we left the Gulf Stream until today. We caught
sight of a vessel today, sailing with the wind. It is supposed to
be
the Eaba, which sailed- on the same day that we did from Baltimore.
She is a Brig with a few passengers on board for California. The
passengers are employed in different ways, some washing clothes,
some airing their beds, others making up their bread for supper
into
biscuits and some others are reading. I have seen for the first
time
today some hundreds of porpoises. They are about as large as a hog.
I had to laugh at brother Worthington, who was, by the by, at this
time employed in making up some flour for supper. It looks odd to
see him thus employed. It will perhaps be as well to mention what
we
get to eat on this ship. We are entitled to Navy rations, but do
not
get them. For bread we get ship crackers which is so hard that we
have to break them with a hammer. I have broken one of my teeth
out
trying to bite them. We get meat but once a day which is at dinner.
We get pork 3 times a week and salt beef balance of the week. We
get
beans done up so that
we cannot eat them, all smoked and burnt up. The rice is done the
same way. This we get 3 times per week. Coffee and tea we get
night and morning not fit to drink. At least I have not drank any
as yet, but I suppose I will have to drink it or go without. We
get 1/2 lb of flour per week and we have to make it up ourselves.
We get some molasses, pickles, ginger and cheese, but they come
like angels visits, few and far between. We could be satisfied
but we cannot get anything baked or cooked as it should be. I
said that we would be satisfied if we could get it done up in the
right way but it seems that we will have to put up with it as
there is no way for us to seek redress until we get to Valpariso.
Tuesday 20th - We arose this morning after a fine nights rest to
find that the sun had already begun its course and with a perfect
vale. We are running at a rate of 9 miles per hour. All enjoying
good health and high spirits. We have time for thought here and
night is the time I think the most. I often go up on deck and
then watch the evening star as she departs down the western
horizon. I think of home and the many endearing ties that once bound
me to it. Often the sun has set, the night creeps in with its
sober mantle of darkness, then I meditate on the past. Then often
dream at night of all those dear associations left behind, never
perhaps to enjoy again. But hope is my stuff and it battles
against despairing thoughts. The heart is a garden and youth is
its spring. Hope is its sunshine. Love is a thorny plant. It
grows tip and bears one bright flower that has nothing like it in
all the world.
This evening the wind has changed its course and we are now
tacking south by southwest. The course we ought to be running is
south. However, we have to tack very often when we do not have a
favorable wind.
Wednesday 21, 1849 - This day is a fine one also with the wind
blowing from the qotith against us. We are now in sight of an
island on the western coast of Africa called the Island of St
Nicholas. This is the first sight of land since we left Cape Henry.
It has been nearly 3 weeks since we left. The sight of land has
done us good. We did not look upon it long for we had to take
another tack which caused us to loose sight of the island, the
wind being against us.
Thursday 22, 1849 - We are still tacking east by south with the
wind blowing from the south. The climate being about 36 degrees,
quite cold, raining, a very unpleasant day.
Friday 23, 1849 - It still continues to rain and the wind being from
the south, we cannot make any headway.
Saturday, 24, 1849 - The wind has changed its course and we are now
running at the rate of 9 miles per hour. It still continues to rain
at times. We are starting south. Some few of the passengers still
sick. I begin to get my appetite again but have fallen off in flesh
very much.
Sunday Feb 25, 1849 - This is a cold day, notwithstanding the sun
is
shining with all its brilliancy. We have religious service morning
and evening which goes to wear away the tedious hours of our voyage.
We have all learned to respect the Sabbath as all men ought to do.
This is a lonely day with myself. Sunday was always to me a lonesome
day. it makes me think of the many pleasant moments I have spent
and
is calculated to call our minds to the past.
I had a merry heart, but then I scarcely know why, I should look
into memory's gorge with a sigh. It is ungrateful to turn to the
past with regret, When we hold a fair portion of happiness yet.
"Long ago" has too often awakened my soul noble, Till my pale brow
would sink and the teardrop would Down. Down busy thought, for the
future may be As bright as the time of the past to me.
Adieu, adieu may greet the fair in the guise of courtly speech. But
when we leave the kind and dear, "Tis not what the soul would teach.
Whenever we grasp the hands of those We would have forever nigh,
The
flame of friendship burns and glows In the warm frank words "Good
bye".
The mother sending forth her child To meet with cares and strife
Breathes through her tears, her doubts, and fears, For the loved
one's future life. No cold "adieu", no "farewell" lives Within her
choking sigh. But the desperate sob of anguish gives "God bless
thee, boy" - Good bye.
Monday 26, 1849 - With a stiff Northeast wind we are now running
at
the rate of 10 knots per hour. It is surprising how cold it keeps.
One would think that it would get warmer the farther south that
we
go, but we had to run so far east in the start that it caused us
to
run out of our tract about 3 thousand miles. The Captain thought
that he would catch the trade winds. He has not as yet found them.
We have this day formed a debating association for our improvement
and pleasure. We have not seen any other curiosity but the
porpoises. These we see very often. They are a pretty fish, some
varigated color and about the size of a man. I do not feel well
today in consequence of having to drink some water that does not
agree with me. It is water out of an iron boiler. It is the color
of cider, but far from being so palatable.
Tuesday 27, 1849 - We are still running south with a stiff breeze
from the southeast. A beautiful day, clear as a bell. I have seen
a
curiosity today. A Portugese Man of War. It is a thin shell and
it
sails on the sea most beautifully. They are about the size of a
goose egg, different colors. We caught one today and it broke to
pieces as soon as we touched it. We have lovely nights now. The
moon shines lovely. We remain on deck until a late hour thinking
and talking about the promised land, and home.
Wednesday 28, 1849 - Nothing of consequnce happened today. We have
a fair wind running south.
Thursday March 1, 1849 - We have a fair wind and are running at the
rate of 10 knots per hour. I hope that it will keep so as I am
tired already of the sea. We had a fuss last night. One of the
passengers got drunk and the Captain put him in irons. This morning
I see that he is released.
Friday March 2, 1849 - I saw this morning a flying fish, which is
considered a curiosity. They are about a foot long. We are getting
in the warm climate now. About the same latitude of New Orleans.
In
a few days we will cross the line.
Saturday March 3, 1849 - We are still running south about 800 miles
from the line. It is a fine day. We have had fine weather for the
last week. We are about 4000 miles from Baltimore. If we meet with
the same good luck that we have had since we left Baltimore, we
will reach Valariso in 3 months from the time we left Baltimore.
-7
Sunday March 4, 1849 - This is a beautiful day. All
the
passengers are well, with the exception of two who has
been
sick ever since they left the Capes. As for myself,
I have
not enjoyed a day of good health since I have been on
board
and am afraid I nary shall until I put my foot upon
land
again.
Monday March 5, 1849 - I have seen today a very cruel punishment.
It
was to a negro assistant cook. They tied his head down across a
roller and took and rope and tied his feet. They slashed him until
he
hollared murder. I thought that he was dead, but they did not give
him near enough for he deserved hanging. The Captain missed some
corn
and he (the cook) said that one of the passengers took it. He pointed
him out the Captain. Afterward the corn was found where the cook
put
it.
Although we are many miles from Washington City, we all wish that
we
could be there if it was possible. This is the day that the President
elect is to take his seat. We are satisfied knowing that it is an
impossibility being there. We comemorated the day by drinking the
old
General's health.
note: Zachary Taylor was innaugurated the twelfth President
of the United States on March 5, 1849. He serves for six-
teen months, dying on July 9, 1850 the victim of war, poli-
tics and illness.
Tuesday 6th - We are about 5000 miles from the city of Baltimore,
about 300 miles from the line. It is getting very warm indeed. Some
of the passengers saw today a shark, which is something that I have
not seen as yet.
Wednesday 7th - This is a very warm day indeed, as warm as the middle
of summer in Maryland. It is not near as warm as it will be. I slept
last night upon deck. Most of the passengers did the same. The nights
are fine. We are lying still, a perfect calm, no wind whatever.
Thursday 8th, Friday 9, Saturday 10 - These three days we have not
sailed more than 30 miles, being a calm. The passengers jump over
in
the sea and bathe. We bathe every day. We have a pump that we pump
upon one another and it is equal to a shower bath. This morning
we
have seen thousands of fish jumping out of the water. We have been
fishing for them but have not as yet caught any. The captain and
some
of the passengers had the small boat lowered and they took a ride.
The wind is better this morning, we are making a little time. We
will, if the wind continues to blow, cross the line in a day or
two.
It is very warm now. The nights is pleasant upon
-8
deck but very warm under deck. My rest is often destroyed by
dreaming about home ever since I left for California.
Sunday March 11, 1849 - This day has been rather an important day.
The Captain speared a very large fish. Its weight was upwards of
130 lbs. He divided it. One half he gave to the steerage
passengers, the other he kept for the cabin. it was a delicious
fish, the flesh rather coarse. We crossed the equator about 3
o'clock this evening and there was seen in the sky a star very
bright indeed. At night Old Neptune came on board, one of the
ugliest persons I ever saw. It is custom with the sailors to dress
up in costumes and throw themselves overboard. The Captain throws
a rope over and pulls them in. This is old Neptune. This is done
when ever they cross the line. We had a great deal of sport with
him. They generally shave the passengers but did not in this c a
s
e .
Monday March 12, 1849 - This day finds us pursuing our course with
rapidity, going about 9 knots per hour. There appeared in sight
about 12 o'clock a sail which proved, when we neared him, to be
a
ship from Callio loaded with guano bound for Cook Island. The
Captain spoke to him by means of a speaking trumpet. They was out
85 days, head wind all the time.
Thursday 15, 1849 - Friday 16 March - Those two days has been
spent by me reading, sleeping, and exercising at the pump and
pulling at the rope.
Saturday March 17, 1849 - This is St. Patrick's Day. We have some
Irishmen on board. They are commemorating it by drinking and
indeed some are very drunk.
Sunday 18, 1849 - We are trying upon our oars today. The sails are
flopping together for want of a breeze. We are in latitude 14
degrees south of the equator. The Captain is looking out for a
chance to send news back to Baltimore. I have written a letter to
my brother but do not know whether we will get a chance to send
it.
Monday 19, 1849 - Tuesday 20, 1849 - Those two days we have had
rain. Today I have never seen it rain harder, being the equanocal
showers. This evening the rain ceased and the sun shone out warm
about 3 o'clock. Then appeared a sail in sight which, when the
Captain spoke to her, proved to be a Brig from Rio Janerio bound
for Bahia on St. Domingo. They reported that they had been out 10
days and was in longitude 35 degrees. They heard that there was
several vessels in Rio for California.
Wednesday 21, 1849 - This is a beautiful day but we are lying still,
no wind. The passengers bathing in the ocean. The Captain speared
a
porpoise today which broke his spear. He did not succeed in getting
him. It was a very large one. This evening about 4 o'clock the
Captain spotted another vessel bound for Bahai from Rio in latitude
35 degrees.
Thursday 22, 1849 - We are moving at the rate of 5 miles per hour,
with a stiff breeze. We are in latitude 16 degrees south of the
line. We are all enjoying good health so far.
Friday 23, Saturday 24, 1849 - We are now in sight of land on the
coast of South America. We intend stopping at Rio Janiero for water.
Sunday 25, Monday 26, 1849 - What a beautiful sight it is to behold,
the mountain on the coast of South America. As we enter into the
Bay
of Rio Janiero. It is magnificent. We are tacking about with the
wind against us.
Tuesday 27, 1849 - All the passengers are delighted with the idea
of
the Captain stopping at Rio Janiero. I myself would have preferred
not to stop although I should like to see Rio very much. But it
will
throw us back about two weeks. We have now been about 5 days tacking
backwards and forwards and have not got into the Bay yet. The
Captain thinks that he will perhaps get in tonight sometime.
Tuesday 27, 1849 - We are still lying off Rio and tacking with a
wind dead ahead. And not as much of it as would fill our sails.
We
have ample time to admire the beauty of the shore and nature has
been lavish of his charms on this portion of the coast. Such a bold
coast with its picturesque and romantic background scenery, its
broken and towering mountains whose base it covered with verdure
and
sides with silver shade and summits enveloped in clouds. Upon its
dells and ravines among the retreats of white, the comfortable
residences of the peasants, as it looks forth upon us, reminds us
of
our home in another hemisphere, and seems to laugh at us in our
wandering and upbraid us for suffering ourselves to be led away
in
pursuit of gold from scenes of such superior comforts and happiness.
We passed the Fort at sunset as the retreat was beating and the
Brazillian flag was dropped from its staff for the night. We were
hailed from the Fort and after answering their questions
satisfactorily were permitted to pass up to the quarantine ground
about 4 miles from the city. When being hailed from the guard ship,
we cast anchor
_10
at 1:30 PM and then our eager sight was feasted by the most splendid
sight
that I
have ever witnessed. The Rio Bay embosomed among the hills with
its
neighboring
villages on both sides of its fine harbors, the city being at this
time
illuminated, there being ecclesiastical processions every night
during
Lent. It
added to the beauty of the view from the harbor, while our senses
were
enchanted
with sounds of excellent music borne on a barge with a profusion
of fruit
and
flowers. Other cities may look as beautiful in the distance by night
but I
have not
had an opportunity of seeing them. To me it seems like a fairy scene.
I
stood on
deck until late and went to eat charmed by my expectations 52 days
from
Baltimore.
Wednesday 28, 1849 - At Anchor this morning. All hands up and preparing
to
go
ashore. We had to stay on board until 8 O'clock when the medical
officer
boarded
and an officer from the American Brig PERRY took our letters off
to
transmit them
to the states. He was heartily cheered (or rather the flag that
he bore)
both on
his arrival and as he passed off from us. Then he politely thanked
us for
honoring
the flag under which he served and he gave us a general invitation
to visit
the
Brig at any time. As we were in port we did not wait for the doctor
to
inspect us,
but availing ourselves of the opportunity of his going to the Cabin
we
crowded into
a fleet of boats that followed the doctor to our ship and we pushed
off to
the city
with high spirits. When we got ashore we searched first on one side
of the
street
and then on the other. Each trying to see the most in the shortest
time. A
great
many of us put up at the Hotel Rio Daniata #14. When after refreshing
ourselves and
looking around we set out on the next day in small parties to explore
the
city
until dinner hour. In our terms everything appeared strange, the
streets (a
few
excepted) were measly, narrow, crooked,' coarsely paved, and sloping
to the
center
being exactly the opposite of the noble macadamized streets and
roads we
last seen.
Instead of traveling on the footpaths or footwalks the pedestrains
took all
parts
of the streets while negroes, half naked, with mule carts, ox wagons
and
what might
be termed the caricatures of carriages composed the most confusing
picture
of
anything pretending to the claim of civilized life. Rio contains
many noble
and
memorable looking churches. There seems to be much pains taken in
the
adorning of
the interior than the exterior of the buildings. On entering one
is struck
with the
profusion of gold and silver that is everywhere to be met with in
the
ornaments and
articles to be used throughtout them. The are
all except one Roman Catholic. The exception being Episcopalian Protestant.
I have not
seen it yet, nor did I know that it existed here until I heard on
board. I
hope to have
an opportunity of visiting it before we leave. There are not very
many
public buildings
of note, the Exchange is a very respectable looking building and
so is
another called the
Palace, presenting two fronts on the Palace Square. But I think
it wouls
not be counted a
first rate residence, nor a second rate one, for a European nobleman.
Though it is the
occasional residence of the Imperialissimo of Brazil. Another remarkable
feature of the
buildings is that they have no chimneys and are roofed with tiles.
The
military barracks
are very indifferent and the military little better than the armed
mob,
nine tenths of
which is Negroes. The city population are of different color from
the rudy
European and
South American to the olive colored Portugese and from that down
to the
ebony colored
Africans. The latter are in the most degraded state that man can
be in and
mix among
civilized people. Though I cannot consider a people civilized that
can look
so cold on
the degradation of their species though they be of a different color
or
mental ability.
But it is also a fact that such of the colored population of Rio
as have
been set free or
can have money to make them respectable looking enjoy some privileges
and
are looked upon
with less contempt than those in the North of America. The Portugese
of Rio
are very
polite and respectful to the Californian Americans. It is said that
we have
been allowed
more privileges in their city than any foreigners have hitherto
enjoyed. To
my own
knowledge we are permitted to enter places that their own people
were
refused admission
to. The fountains of this city are splendid but the waters are generally
carried to the
houses from the fountains in barrels on the heads of slaves, or
in mule
carts through the
city. Could the city be supplied with good hydrants in a short time
and
with very little
expense. After exploring the most of the city, we returned at dinner
time
and showed by
our performance at table the salutory effect of the exercise of
the day.
The remainder of
the evening was spent in short exercise through the city or in social
company til bed
time. Previous to which some of our fellows went to the theater
together
with myself,
though we could not understand the Portugese language we came home
persuaded that the
performance was very good. We were permitted to carry an umbrella
in, nor
to enter with a
white coat. Some of the party wore white coats and of course was
disappointed in seeing
the play. There was a very laughable after piece about California
and as it
was being
acted, all eyes was turned upon us. We seemed to be the real heroes
of the
scene. In the
course of the night we
-12
had some laughable cases brought in our boarding house who showed
the powerful effects that captain whiskey can produce when a man
resigns his reason to him.
Thursday 29, 1849 - I was awakened this morning by the noise in
our hotel of the preparation for breakfast. Our company at
breakfast presented a set of men who was not in the least capacity
to enjoy it, as many of them were evidently suffering from the
effects of the night debauching and some was absent from the
muster and could not be accounted for, though in the course of the
day everyone came up with his share of the adventures of the
night. I remained in the city until after night and after first
chosing some necessarries that our ship rations was deficient of,
I came along, though many stayed in the city for the night though
it was thought that our vessel would sail the next day morning.
Wednesday 27, 1849 - We are all confusion here. The passengers are
brushing up and fixing for Rio. We arrived at the fort about 6
o'clock. Yesterday arriving the scenery was beautiful. The
mountain is very high. The Sugar Loaf is the highest peak which
is
seen far above the clouds. The captain at the Fort spoke to us and
Captain Brown answered that we were for California. We then went
in about 4 miles of the town and then we anchored. The next morning
or at least this morning we are all off for Rio.
Thursday 28, 1849 - This day was spent by all the passengers in
Rio de Janeiro. Some drinking, some eating, and some running about
to see what they could see. Rio de Janiero is a beautiful place.
I
should suppose that it is one of the most romantic countries out
around the town of any in the world. Its mountains are very high
affording a quantity of oranges and lemons and bananas. The most
beautiful views are when we draw near the harbor. The mountains
we
see far above the clouds. The forts are four. The bay is one of
the largest and finest in the world. The town is laid off very
irregular. The streets narrow, the houses mostly two stories high
built of stone. Many are rough coated with a tile roof which makes
a very ugly but very substantial one. The most substantial manner.
The Botanical Gardens about 8 miles from town is splended. Nothing
can equal its magnificence. We can see growing the oranges,
lemons, coconuts, pineapples, and bananas, and again we see
coffee, tea and breadfruit all growing. The gardens are laid off
in squares and it is about 50 acres square with a fountain of
running
-13
water running through it. It is right at the foot of a very high
mountain. Sixteen of us hired a six mule wagon and went out to this
garden and spent a delightful day. The churches are small but
finished off inside in the most gorgeous style. They have in town
several beautiful places of resort. All are laid off with a great
deal of taste. The city is at the foot of the mountains and the
harbor is in front of the city. The houses of amusements are finished
off in good style. They have theaters and a museum etc.
Friday 29, 1849 - Today we are ready to leave the port of Rio. But
we
will have to remain or prolong our stay in consequence of having
to
remove from office our Captain, who by the by treated the passengers
generally very bad. On arriving in Rio we have before us Parks,
the
United States Consul, and a memorial drawn up by the passengers
asking him to remove Captain Brown and give us a new captain. On
this
day he came to the boat and had him removed. He appointed in his
stead Captain Johnathan Bowers, who he recommended very highly.
He
also removed the second mate and placed in his place a Mr. Hunter
who
appears to be a very clever man.
Saturday 30, 1849 - This day the passengers are all on board
and expecting to leave tomorrow. But the news has arrived
from the Captain that he will not be ready to leave for an-
other- . This morning the ex captain came on board and
took his baggage and left us for the bound for New
York.
This morning finding that we could not get to sea, I determined on
a
tour in the country as far as the Botanical Gardens about 8 miles
from the city. Accordingly at 10 o'clock AM I proceeded in company
with 15 others to visit the country. We hired a mule wagon of six
mules and started for the Gardens. As regards this garden, I could
not give anything like a just description of the roads. Indeed they
were miserable. The one that we traveled through the high mountains
was tolerable good and with beautiful cottages, garden grottos,
vistas, and lakes was the most beautiful that could be described.
On
coming at the Gardens we were accosted by a Brazillian who pretended
to speak English and act as a guide to stangers. We continued and
traveled these celebrated retreats and being satisfied with hearing
foreign names and seeing tropical fruit and flowers and plants and
tearing off a large nosegay or bouquet of the latter together with
a
large bamboo cane and a large quantity of oranges etc., and
paying our conductor, we got in our wagon and drove to a tavern
about
1/2 mile on our road. We took a cole cut and after that we started
for
the city and reached it about sundown. When we reached the city
we
perceived a calvalcade, which as they galloped passed and drew up
at
the palace door, I discovered to be the Emperor Don Pedro II and
his
Empress and a mounted guard. They entered the Palace through a con
siderable crowd. After some inquiry, I found that one of the great
ecclesiastical processions peculiar to Roman Catholic countries
and
considering that this was about to take place, and that the Emperor
and Empress was waiting to witness it, our curiosity was soon
gratified. We soon heard the noise, next weaving over the crowd
appeared the ecclesiastical and Imperial Standards. As they approached
the whole paraphernalia of the Church seems transferred to the streets
and borne about on the shoulders of the clergy. The fifteen stations
of the cross with wax work figures as large as life ornamented with
gold and silver, satin, velvet, and bouquets and each supported
by
eight of the clergy. While between each station there marched in
open
order the several orders of the clergy in their robes and bearing
the
emblems of their rank and office. Each of them having a little girl
by
the hand and dressed so as to make them look like little angels.
Some
of which scattered incense rending the scene very solemn indeed.
On
reaching the place where the Emperor and Empress stood in the balcony
of the Palace, each station halted and turned the face of the statues
towards the Emperor and Empress who kneeled and appeared praying
while
the station fronted them. During this time the clergy sang a solemn
hymn. Thus the several parts of the procession passed. Next came
the
military band and troops preceded by the Imperial Standards of Brazil.
All being passed and the Emperor and Empress, ladies and gentlemen
having left the balcony we thought it time to get to our ship. As
the
Emperor has been so often named in these remarks, I must, in justice
to him, add one more word respecting his appearance. He is noble,
prepossessive and seems to impress on the beholder that he is in
the
presence of one of nature's aristocracy. It is no wonder that he
is
beloved by the Brazillians who know his goodness, for he has only
to
show himself to us foreigners and he wins our respect and esteem.
His
orders respecting us are an index by which we might judge his
nobleness and librality. His giving us free access to all the places
within our reach that are worthy going to see, among which and not
the
least are his gardens from which we all brought more or less fruits
and flowers. Such kindness in the Emperor is only equaled by the
courteous manner and demeanor of the Brazillians towards us. The
Emperor is a man
about six feet high, mainly proportions, fair hair and a florid
complexion. He wore an officer's uniform, blue coat, gold
epaulettes, standard blue ribbons, white vest, sword belt and sword.
The Empress is not quite so handsome. She is fair headed, but of
a
sallow complexion. On arriving on board I found that the passengers
has preferred charges against the Captain and had laid them before
the American Consult. The case was to be decided on the next day.
Saturday 31, 1849 - Last night before retiring to our berths a
formal statement of our complaints was drawn up and signed by almost
all of the passengers. It was sent ashore to support the charges
laid before the Consul. They returned in the evening after the day
being spent investigating the charges of one of the cabin
passengers. We have to be content until next week. I spent part
of
the day writing this journal as it had fallen far behind.
note: This last entry explains why there are errors in the dates
and
why some of the entries are repetitious.
Sunday April 1, 1849 - This is the nineth Sunday from Baltimore.
I
dressed myself up and went into the city with the intention of going
to the English Church. With a good deal of persuasion, I persuaded
one of the passengers to accompany me as a guest of studious search.
We picked up another and after providing ourselves with a guide
we
went direct to the place and having arrived too early we had time
to
sit and cool ourselves.
Sunday 31, 1849 - The passengers generally it
being Sunday. Sunday is not kept home. They
keep their stores open and they sell and traffic the same as
any other day. I suspect it is a day set apart for amusement
and theater. They have bullfights etc. on this day. This
being Lent they have been keeping holiday for two weeks and
they have some splendid processions.
Monday April 1, 1849 - This day is spent by the passengers on board
the ship HYLON finally getting tired of Rio. We hired a boat today
and went up the mountain and brought down a boat load of oranges.
We
was out all day. Spent a delightful day. We sailed over the greater
part of the harbor. We have some high boys board. They are brought
back from town many nights as drunk as Bacchus. Several new comers,
the principal part of the congregation appeared to be English
merchants, a few Americans, and two or three Brazillians. The
service was purely Englishmen. The minister delivered a very able
address and very appropriate to the day,
it being Palm Sunday. After prayers we proceeded to the Emperor's
Chapel to witness the very imposing ceremony of celebration of
mass. I did not arrive in time for the service but we did in time
to see the Emperor and his staff leave. I got very near his majesty
and of course could scrutinize his features. In doing so I found
that he looked better at a distant view. Though it must be admitted
that his is a noble looking fellow. After we dined we strolled
about until the evening was far advancing. We directed our steps
to
the landing where we ordered a boat and departed for the ship.
Monday April 2, 1849 - This morning the comment of Prosecusion
preceded to the Consul to get through with the trial of our
Captain. He returns to us in the evening with the word that the
business so far was in our favor and that in the morning the Consul
would be on board and see for himself and decide the case.
Tuesday April 3, 1849 - This morning the Consul came on board
accompanied by an other gentlemen who he soon introduced to us as
our new Captain. After gathering around him all hands in the course
of which he recapitulated the duties of the several parties on the
ship and gave the passengers some very good advice. Then
introducing to us Captain Johnathan Bower and administering to him
an oath binding him to serve all this ship according to the laws
of
the United States. Then he took his leave of us, leaving us
perfectly satisfied with the success of our case and also making
ka
favorable impression on our minds of the ability, determination
and
decision of the United States Consul.
Wednesday April 4, 1849 - Captain Brown came on board today and
after getting his baggage together he left the ship. Also the first
mate who resigned and returned to the States with Brown. This being
the birthday of the Queen of Portugal and the Brazillians being
in
terms of friendship and blood relationship with the parent country,
the ships in the harbor hoisted all their colors and at 12 o'clock
fired a general salute which was taken up by the forts and answered
from the city by the pealing of their heavy bells. I wrote several
letters today to my friends in the States and will send them by
a
vessel bound for the States and leaves in the morning.
Thursday April 5, 1849 - Still lying inactive at anchor. Our new
Captain having to transact much business in the city. Captain Brown
having taken with him charts, the chronometer e t c .
Good Friday, April 6, 1849 - Many of us went ashore today in hopes
of seeing the great ecclesiastical procession of the Roman Catholic
Church which seems to be practiced here in the greatest abundance.
I remained in the city until 4 O'clock. I saw one procession
intended to represent the burial of our Savior. There was a rich
display of gold tinsel, crosses, ladders, a crown of thorns,
painting, the scroll on which his accusation was written with a
sable bier and transparent gold pall preceded by the usual company
of clergy, most of them carrying representations of the implements
and instruments of shame and torture which accompanied the
crusifixtion. As usual in these processions the clergy carried
candles in their hands five or six feet long which they generally
kept burning about the Host and always kept lit up after night
making a very imposing torchlight procession. The marchers kept
step in open order. The two individuals in the center being two
little girls habited in a very rich gold and silver transparency,
representing I suppose, a company of angels. Two of these little
girls walked immediately in front of the Bier, two females dressed
in oriental costume representing the Virgin Mary and Mary
Magdalene. The Pall bearers wore scarves and all others tokens of
mourning. The military wore crepe and throughout the city as well
as the procession. As I have attempted to describe one of the
processions before in this book, I will let this description
suffice. It is no wonder that this country is so far behind the
other civilized parts of the world. When we consider how much of
their time is occupied by the requirements of their church We are
now near two weeks in the harbor and nearly half of time has been
spent by them in the celebration of their religious ceremonies.
Their Customs House shut up and a corresponding retention of the
vessesls in port. (I wish that they would open it a few hours and
give us our clearance.) There is neither Railroad, Canal, or
telegraph to give them a claim to a place in the chart of the
enterprise. They keep their stores open and make a sale on the
Sabbath and on their strolling about all day until night, I
returned to the ship and in the course of the evening and night
many of shipmates came on board. Some of them exhibiting in their
persons and conduct the degrading and dangerous effects of
intoxication.
Saturday 7, 1849 - At anchor, nothing remarkable.
Sunday 8, 1849 - This is Easter Sunday. I went to the English
Church accompanied by several of our passengers. When we heard a
very able address from Romans 6, chap 7, 4th
_18
and 5th verses. After services we preceded to the Emperor's Church
where
High Mass was
being celebrated in the presence of the Emperor and Empress and
staff.
Leaving them we
traversed several parts of the city and took dinner at the Hotel
Phanaux in
Palace Square.
Then after dinner we visited the Palace and Public Gardens where
the
citizens flocked for
ventilation and fresh air. As it was now getting late we started
for the
ship and arrived on
board at 7 o'clock. It was without exception the most agreeable
day that I
spent ashore.
Monday 9, 1849 - Several of our men went today to see a private bullfight
that was to
come off. The Easter holidays not being past til after Tuesday,
we have
time to sport in
the city that we would much rather spend preceding on our journey.
But we
cannot get
away as the Custom House is not open to get our clearance. On returning
we
learned that
the bullfight was only a poor affair.
Wednesday 11, 1849 - This day we got on board some fresh water replacing
what we used
since we came into port.
Thursday 12, 1849 - We thought that we should have weighed anchor
this
morning but we
find that the water bill and others have not been paid which requires
some
time as the new
Captain has not been left any funds and consequently has to recourse
to
other means of
obtaining supplies.
Friday 13, 1849 - This day was spent by a party of us hiring a boat
for the
day and we
started on a mountain expedition. We were out all day until after
night. We
returned
loaded with oranges. We should have left today except for the ridiculously
absurd idea
that is believed in by many seafaring men that some days are not
so lucky
for them to put
to sea. Friday being one of them we had to remain until it is past.
This is
one of the
remaining vestiges of the darker ages with which its tenatious hold
keeps
its footing
despite all the knowledge of the nineteenth century. When will the
day
arrive when the
creator shall cease practically to give the lie to his creator by
saying
that one day is evil
or unlucky more than another. When that original and grand devision
of time
was
established, the All wise God pronounced it with his other works
to be all
very good. We
received this evening a confirmation of the rich reports from California
by
the American
slave ship from Valpariso.
Saturday 14, 1849 - Today we thought to get off but as if to punish
us for
remaining
yesterday when the wind was favorable it has today proved unfavorable
to we
lie at anchor.
This evening the Captain went ashore and engaged a steam boat to
tow us out
in the
morning. This and last evening has been
_19
closed with great lightening and heavy rain which continued until
the
middle of the night.
Sunday 15, 1849 - This morning I came awake by the noise of the windlass
of our ship raising the anchor chain. The New York ship ROBERT BROWN
with 160 passengers to California weighed anchor and put to sea
this
morning before us. As the mist of the morning was clearing away
we saw
the English government Brigg EXPRESS under way and a towing out
of
harbor of four man-of-war boats. As she passed some Brazilian war
ship
they gave her a general salute as did also the forts on either side
of
the harbor. At 7 o'clock the steam boat came along side and after
getting ropes from our ship attached to his boat we were once more
on
our voyage and much pleased to by leaving Rio on the 18th day after
our
arrival. We now begin to perceive the city and the shipping in the
harbor receding from view. While the shore with its diversified
landscape of promontories, rocks, mountains, ravines, and valleys,
and
woods and churches, forts and lighthouses passed before us in panoramic
view until we reached the mouth of the harbor, where we became enchanted
with the beautiful group of islands which stand up from the bosom
of the
old ocean like so many emerald gems enchanting the richness of the
beauty of this very picturesque coast. 8:30 a.m. the steam boat
left us
not until we having exchanged the usual gallant sea farewell. We
gave
him three hearty cheers which he so politely responded to by hoisting
and lowering his flag. Light winds accompanied us so we did not
make
much progress and did not lose sight of land until after night.
The
ROBERT BROWN in sight all day and still ahead of us.
Monday 16, 1849 - Very light winds and sailing very little. No land
in
sight this morning and only a few of the many vessels that left
port
with us yesterday. Our new officers seem likely to give general
satisfaction.
Wednesday 18, 1849 - This morning set in with a fine light wind at
12
a.m. The sky in the south and west assumed a very gloomy appearance.
Our
Captain consequently took in the studding sails and commenced reefing
the topsails which precaution proved to be most opportune for while
in
the act of reefing, a terrible thunderstorm came on us accompanied
by
drenching rain, which continued for 2 1/2 hours with increasing
violence
when the rain stopped and the wind lulled.
Thursday 26, 1849 - 0 We have still a stiff breeze. At noon we were
in
latitude 34 321. At 3 p.m. a gale set in which increased in violence.
We
are off River Platte. The storm was lashing
-20
the ocean into a foaming fury through which our ship labored heaving,
her decks frequently washed by swells breaking over them which
threatened destruction to everything in their impetuous course.
Many of
the passengers, afraid to stay on deck, remained below deck.
During one of these frightening breakers we had a scene of mingled
fear
and laughter. The ship gave a tremendous lurch which threw down
the
ladder on the main hatch about which many were clinging. Throwing
men
and trunks from the leeward to the starboard side of the ship. The
now
prostrated group of passengers crawling from one place to another
trying
to rescue themselves but no sooner up then they are again thrown
down. I
was lying in my bunk at the time and was thrown out and came very
close
being severely hurt but escaped unhurt. It created the most confused
spectacle that could be imagined and which had the effect, when
it was
ascertained that none was hurt, only producing a general burst of
mirth.
It the same way the night was spent, as to sleep that was impossible.
Friday 27th - The storm somewhat abated but still violent. The ocean
still running very high. Our ship running double reefed foresail,
fore
and main sail, and spanker. We are very uncomfortable. The weather
cold
and the decks wet, together with the rolling of the ship making
a
difficult task to retain our footing on them, while to go below
is more
intolerable in consequence of the suffocating atmosphere of so many
persons in such a confined and disagreeable place. This evening
the sea
became a little more settled. This night we got some sleep which
we were
in need of after the very uneasy time spent in the late storm.
Saturday 28th - This day we had a light but favorable wind. The sea
still works works in heavy swells. We made very little of our course
since yesterday being only in latitude 35 0 53'.
Sunday 29th - Still on our course with tolerable, favorable wind.
Saw a
sail this evening to the west being the first that we have seen
for a
long time. It had been cloudy at 12 o'clock consequently there was
no
observation. At 3PM the wind freshened and we sailed this afternoon
at
the rate of 9 knots. But we were not long to enjoy that pleasure
for the
night became so squally that it was deemed expedient to shorten
sail.
This day the usual evening prayer meeting was held but the morning
service was neglected. This is our thirteenth Sunday from Baltimore.
-21
Monday 30th - This morning becalmed for a short time. After which
the
wind shifted from SE to SW and another storm ensued. We have seen
today a very beautiful bird called the Cape Pigeon. They are about
the size of a pheasant. Some white and varigated colors. We are
off
Patagonia. Latitude 39 0 43'.
The passengers are all fishing for a very large bird called an
Albatross, which now crowded about the vessel. They have succeeded
in
catching five of them after losing some light lines as they did
not
know the strength until they caught some of them. They were using
lines and hooks that was not strong enough. Some of them that we
caught measured 9 ft. 9 inches from the extremities of their extended
wings. This afternoon and night has been very changeable, sometime
fair wind, sometime calm and at other times squally by the sea all
the time running high.
Wednesday 2nd - The same unfavorable weather that we had yesterday
continues. Our ship carrying only what sail necessary to make her
answer her helm. Our foretopsail lost in this gale and other minor
injuries sustained.
Thursday 3rd - The gale continues to blow. We are not making much
of
our course having as much sail out makes the vessel manageable.
The
sea frequently breaks over the decks which together with the squalls
acompanied by passing showers and the weather being very cold makes
us very uncomfortable. To which the unpatience of the passengers
for
being delayed in the pursuit of the object of the voyage adds not
a
little. For the evening the ship was trimmed and hove to for the
night. Latitude 41 0 42' south.
Friday 4th - Last night and this morning has been as the preceding
days. At 12 o'clock we were in altitude 41 0 36' south and longitude
53 west having lost 6 miles of latitude and twenty miles of longitude
since the last observation.
Saturday 5th - This morning we have not a breath of wind to fill
our
flapping sails. Our ship is like a raft on the now settled water.
At
9 o'clock the wind sprung up and we are now running on course.
Sunday 6th - Running rapidly since yesterday but at night the wind
shifted round NW. The ship had such an uneasy motion that the usual
assembledge for evening prayers was rendered impractical.
Monday 7th - Favorable sailing in the forenoon. A ship to
-22
the eastward under close reefed topsail laying to. We passed her
in the
evening and lost sight of her during a squall. The appearance of
the
night indicating squalls we took in most of our sails.
Tuesday 8th - This day being fine the passengers crowd upon deck.
But
such days are rare in this latitude.
Vast number of porpoises about our vessel; these seem to be different
from those in the north latitude. I don't think they are as large.
We
tried to harpoon some of them, but failed in consequence of the
roughness of the sea and the rapidity of our sailing.
Thursday 10th - We sailed very well all last night but in the morning
the wind died off for some time, during which time we caught an
indistance glimpse of the Falkland Islands and lost sight of them
again
for a few hours. The wind freshened again in 0 the forenoon. We
caught
sight of them again in our latitude 50 51 south. We must have seen
the
Falkland Islands about 50 miles off and passed them in the course
of
the evening about 25 miles distant. We could distinctly see the
tarnished looking ridge of snow capped mountains running nearly
south
to north. I went upon the foretop and had a much better view of
them
than could be obtained from the deck. From aloft I traced the
connection of the several elevations of the land, which from the
deck
at our distance from them might be mistaken for separate islands.
In
the early part of the evening it was necessary to furl sail and
lay to
in consequence of squall and head winds.
Friday 12th - We are hove to this morning; the wind dead ahead. Last
sight of the islands in the course of the night. The weather is
very
cold, frequent showers of hail, sleet, and snow. We caught some
0 Cape
Pigeons today. They are a beautiful fowl. In latitude 52 061 south.
Saturday 13th - We have been tacking to and fro in the vicinity of
the
Falkland Islands yesterday, last night and today. This morning we
came
in sight of them again remaining in view of them. In the evening
we put
about and ran SE by E all night whence we await a fair wind. One
of the
steerage passengers was severely hurt by the falling of a block
from
the fore rigging. We are latitude 51 0 201 south at noon today,
showing
a loss of 46 miles since yesterday.
Sunday 14th - We are at the northeast of the Falkland Islands and
begin
running south this morning. The weather is more temperate
-23
shifted to the west and of course we 0 began to then run 0 south.
At 12
o'clock we were in latitude 58 45' longitude 78 17'.
Wednesday 24th - With the wind from the west, we are still running
a
little west of south. At 12 o'clock were in latitude 590 south.
When
we tried the ship on a northern course but found that with the wind
so
much ahead that we would loose more than we would gain on our proper
course. In the evening the wind changed north and we began running
a
point north of west.
Thursday 25th - We have not got our ship on her right course as yet,
but every change in the wind are more favorable. We are today in
59 0
07' latitude South Pacific Ocean.
Friday 26th - Last night and today is characterized by sucessive
breezes and calms alternating every two hours, causing a corresponding
elevation and depression of spirits among the passengers.
Saturday 27th - This day we have got the yards square and are running
at 9 or 10 knots before a sweeping breeze. It is making some of
the
weaker ropes snap. In the evening had to shorten sail in consequence
of the wind freshening so much.
Sunday 28th - Wind ahead or from the NW and so stormy that we are
hove
to all this day and night. No religious meeting today by reason
of the
storm as it is impossible to attend to reading or study from the
rolling of the ship. This is our 17th Sunday out.
Monday 29th The storm is unabated.
Tuesday 30th We are still lying to and the storm is raging
but with less violence. This evening we got out some sail.
The wind changing more south and becoming more steady and
the weather more moderate our ship made some headway.
Wednesday 31st - Though the weather continues very boisterous and
our
ship under close reefed top sails we have made a good run since
yesterday evening. At 12 o'clock we are in latitude 50 0 30'. Seen
a
ship to the east of our course.
Thursday Ist - The wind having changed nearly south we are enabled
to
run right before the wind steering by the compass NW by W which,
allowing for variations of two points east in this place, makes
our
course due north. At noon we were in latitude
-24
40 0 10' south. The weather is still very cold but not so much as
off
the Cape. We wash in the snow every morning settled on the deck
through the night. We have got rather a singular person on board
in
the person of Mr. Emmen a Swedish gentlemen of good education and
courteous manners who has manifested symptoms of mental aberation.
He
being of late impressed with the idea that the gentlemen composing
his
mess with those of the ships company in general are in league to
kill
him. In consequence of his fear of being killed he refuses to sleep
in
the steerage and sleeps upon deck. He also refused to eat anything
that are cooked on board. There is not the least cause for such
apprehension on his part. If he doesn't banish such thoughts from
his
mind, he must die of exhaustion.
Friday June Ist - Mr. Emmen has not taken any rest for the last 3
nights and has remained upon deck altogether. The passengers all
seem
to think much of him and they try to get him below but he refuses
all
entreaties. The wind changed from south to east today, and freshened
so that we are running in fine style. We are in latitude 460 25'
south. In the course of the evening the breeze freshened so it was
deemed expedient to short sail.
Saturday 2nd - This morning cloudy with good sailing breeze
accompanied occassionally with rain. Mr. Emmen was still upon deck.
While today the Captain persuaded him to go down in the cabin, he
has
not eaten anything of consequence for 4 days past. When asked the
reasons of his strange notion and conduct he said that on a previous
voyage poison had been put in his coffee and that he knew by the
talk
of his present messmates that they intended doing the same though
none
of us has heard a word that would justify such a supposition. On
the
contrary passengers seem to pity him and try to dispell such gloomy
impressions from his mind.
Sunday 3rd - With yesterday evenings rain came a calm which continued
last night and today. This morning has been clear and warm. The
sun
came out with spring like warmth and brightness such as we have
been a
stranger to for many weeks. Taking advantage of the fine morning
the
persons was stirring at an early hour. This morning Mr. Emmen seemed
in some respects recovered from his melancholy. But in a short time
relapsed into his usual conduct. He fell on his knees on deck before
the Captain imploring him to protect him from the passengers who
he
thought was intended killing. Every effort has been tried with him
that humanity can suggest under our present circumstances but to
no
avail. Albatross, Cape Pigeon and another
-25
tribe peculiar to these latitudes flock about our ship feeding on
the offal thrown out to them. Showing nearly as much domestication
as the fowls in a barnyard. In the evening, a light breeze set in
accompanied with heavy rains. At 12 o'clock we were in latitude
42 0
58' South.
Monday 4th - This morning we had a very light breeze which ended
in
an early calm about 12 o'clock. Then the day became cloudy and a
breeze sprang up and increased til about 3 o'clock pm when an
extraordinary and awful occurance took place. The gentlemen who
has
been noticed in he foregoing remarks as showing symptoms of mental
aberation completed all that could be done by a maniac in putting
and end to his life by jumping overboard. In all that he showed
of
his reason failing him there was none sufficiently strong to justify
us in thinking that he would attempt on his own life or warrant
us
in taking any precaution by tying him up or otherwise preventing
the
rash act. On the contrary, he showed nothing in his conduct of an
alarming nature, except a settled melancholy with a cowardly fear
of
death under such impressions none would think that he would hasten
death by committing suicide, what he feared so much would take
place. He had taken more than ordinary trouble this morning in
performing his toilet and arranging his papers and was seen putting
some papers with writing on them inside of his cravat and tied it
on
his neck. But was only thought to be the effect of more of his
unnecessary ideas. Immediately before jumping overboard he was
talking in a sociable manner to some of the passengers and took
a
drink right out of the fresh water cask at the main hatch, then
walking aft in his usual manner he suddenly put his foot upon the
cannon that was lashed aft on the starboard then, springing upon
the
bulwarks, plunged into the sea. So sudden was his movements that
those who were looking on had not time to reach the place before
he
was gone. Immediately the alarm was given and everything that could
be got at was boards and barrels were thrown over but he did not
seem to care for them, nor try to swim or save himself. The Captain
did all in his power to save him but the ship being running under
studding sails at the rate of 10 knots an hour and the general
confusion on deck causing some mistake in cutting loose the boat.
It
finally broke loose and went adrift without anyone in it. Previous
to this the fore and main sails was clawed up and the ship brought
up in the wind. But when the boat was gone and all sight of the
man
lost, the hopes of saving him were given up, the sails dropped and
the ship went on her course. With feelings of awe and horror we
left
the dead to talk over the mysterious occurrence. Soon after the
Captain came down to the steerage and had his baggage removed to
the
cabin. It was found that he had taken a ficticious name.
-26
He told the doctor of the ship some weeks before that his right
name was G. J. Erngarden assigning his reason for so doing that
he
had been carrying on business very extensively in Sweden and
failed. So that he had to leave his friends and take his effects
and a few hundred dollars and came to the United States under the
assumed name of Emmen. Yesterday and today some of the passengers
was practicing with firearms on deck which might have had a bad
affect on his disordered imagination.
Tuesday 5th - We continued sailing rapidly during the early part
of
the night but in the morning and all day we have been becalmed.
Late in the evening the breeze sprung up and we are again in
motion. The shocking occurance of yesterday affords subject for
the
serious consideration of the passengers, many of whom try to solve
the dark problem, why he committed the deed, by supposing causes
generally not favorable or charitable to him, tracing their effect
to the final and tragical result of which we were witness.
Wednesday 6th - Wind N East or nearly ahead, so we find it
necessary to tack ship frequently. One of our passengers asserts
that he saw Emmen's ghost last night in two different gowns. He
was
so sure that he saw his ghost that he woke his bedfellow to point
out Mr. Emmen to him, but the sleeper, not willing to have his
slumber disturbed by the pressence of a visitor from the other
world, only responded to the shaking and pinching by saying Mr.
Emmen be d ---- d in such a voice as banish or put and end to the
delusion. At noon Lat 39 0 541. The passengers are practicing with
rifles, fowling pieces and revolvers. Becalmed this afternoon.
Thursday 7th - We have a light but fair wind today. The passengers
are all enjoying good health. They very often get out their fire
arms and shoot the Cape Pigeons and Albatross, often killing them.
Friday 8th - We were awoke this morning with the cry of land ahead.
When we got on deck a long range of coast could be distinctly seen
at a distance of about 20 miles. Our ship bearing down on it to
the
NE. It was supposed to be a point of land on the coast of Chile.
At
8 o'clock am we put about ship and leaving the land astern ran a
point N of West all day. A cloudy mist came on through which we
seen a ship at a short distance, running on the same tack that we
so lately changed. If her Captain did not know his longitude better
than our Captain did his, she must have been in a rather dangerous
proximity to the land. Our chronometer has been derranged for some
time and it happens that our dead reckoning was incorrect as the
officers thought they were hundreds of miles west of the coast.
-27
Saturday 9th - Last night our ship was laid on the old NE course
and
continued running on it all this day but with a very light breeze.
Lat 38o
021 Long 75 0 361.
Sunday 10th - Wind North running NE by East about 2 o'clock PM came
in
sight of the coast on which we were bearing direct down, and when
within
about 20 miles of it we put about and ran on NW tack. Seen two ships
for a
short time crossing our course. The usual evening prayer meeting
was held
at 3 PM where an address was delivered by Mr. Griffith from Luke
12th
Chapter and 6th verse. It is understood that he was licensed by
the
Methodist Society to preach in California.
miles from us, but we are both becalmed. Shooting Cape Pigeons and
Albatross. Employed in different occupations, some playing cards,
some
backgammon, some chess and others reading. In the evening all that
could
perform on the violin and flute assembled and had a tolerable concert
and
banished care and reflection until time to go to rest. It is to
be desired
that this attempt at refined amusement would be frequently repeated
as in
the absence of such there is generally a portion of the young men
who
indulge in the undignified and perhaps immoral practice of telling
stories
and bandying rough jokes.
Tuesday 12th - A light head wind and our ship tacking. The vessel
we seen
yesterday is in sight today.
Wednesday 13th - Stiff north wind. Came in sight of land on the northeast
at daylight. The coast seemed to be one high even range of mountains
as far
as could be seen from the ship. When within some 15 miles of land,
put
about on the NW tack and ran so all day. At noon south latitude
36 0 081.
Thursday 14th - Making short tacks against a headwind. At about 8
o'clock
PM a ship came down on us in the darkness and did not seem to see
us. For
we then sailed so near that the vessels had hardly time to leave
each
others course. While passing they hoisted lights but did not hail.
Friday 15th - The usual business of getting breakfast etc was commenced
as
usual when our vessel, which was sailing at the rate of about 8
knots, was
struck by a squall which tore our jib and broke several ropes. Four
of the
sailors went out on the bowsprit to put things to right. While so
doing, by
an extraordinary roll of the vessel, one of the seamen was precipitated
into the ocean. Immediately the appalling cry of a MAN OVER BOARD
rang
through every port of the vessel, all running on deck. Then the
scene of
confusion that ensued baffled description. The few that were on
deck at the
moment
-28
ran about deck looking for loose ropes to throw to the unfortunate
man. They also threw over pieces of boards etc. But owing to the
speed of the vessel and the swells, none reached him. While this
was
doing the Captain took his stand upon the roof of the cabin gave
orders to put the ship about. Some of the sailors was lowering the
small boat. All this was done in the shortest space of time
imaginable and the ship brought round on the starboard tack. We
ran
back about a mile and then brought up in the winds and then we caught
sight of the man swimming like a good fellow. But the waves was
so
high that he was carried away from us on our starboard side. The
small boat was lowered and Lewis, the second mate and two of the
sailors got in it and rowed about 2 miles and found the man just
in
time to save him. When he was taken in the boat it was found that
he
divested himself of all his clothes but his drawers. When he was
brought upon deck he was so weak that he could not walk. He was
then
taken down in the forecastle. The doctor administered what was
necessary to him and he was able to do his work the next day. He
had
been in the water about 1 hour at least. He was a native of the
Sandwich Islands. A very large man and a splendid swimmer. He left
a
New York whaling vessel in Rio Janiro to 0 go to California with
our
Captain. We are in latitude 34 57' and sailing at 6 knots all day.
Saturday 16th - The wind changeable and squally last night. This
morning the wind is from the SE and E. Two ships in sight steering
in
the same direction with us. At 8 o'clock all came in sight of land.
We are all in better spirits than usual, as we hope to be in
Valpariso tonight. As we near the coast we can, thought at a distance
of some 0 8 miles, see the snowy peaks of the Andes. We are now
in 38
22' Lat about 17 miles south of Valpariso. We pressed an all sail
in
order to reach it before dark. But when within 12 miles of the port
we found that we could not, so we just put about and lay off and
on
for the night. In the early part of which it blew so fresh that
it
was thought necessary to run out to sea for safety.
Sunday 17th - This morning all hands were awake about 4 o'clock with
a sudden shock and a very unusual report. There was a stiff breeze
blowing or rather a gale. Some went upon deck to ascertain the cause
of the noise and found that one of the main sheets had gave way.
Immediately the main topsail yard run down and the damage temporarily
repaired. We pressed on all sail and reached Valpariso and lay at
anchor at 10 O'clock. Making the passage from Rio to Valpariso in
63
days;
-29
from Baltimore 134 days after delaying in Rio 19 days and
experiencing some very heavy gales and most of the time
head winds and frequent calms without suffering any material
loss, except unfortunate Mr. Emman who voluntarily drowned
himself. Now when we review our long and tedious voyage
this far, I think we have a right to be very thankful to
providence for our present condition. For the reports of
how others faired in like circumstance we have that of the
Barque HEBES which left Baltimore with us and came in
Valpariso this morning lost several of her passengers, her
mate and 4 of her seamen; and a schooner in her company lost
her first mate with them in the Straights of Magellan, the
men having gone ashore to gun, while there was a storm come
up and parted the vessesls from their comrades on shore.
The ship ROBERT BROWNE from New York with 160 passengers was
stricken by an English vessel off Cape Horn in a gale in a
sinking condition and soliciting help which was not in the
power of the English vessel to render as considering the
storm then raging. That they were all lost. As another
ship brings the report that they seen a ship [sinking] in
the storm off Cape Horn. Taking all these things into
consideration, together with the ratifying news from California,
we are all very well pleased with our condition. The
shore
in the approach to the harbor presents a peculiar aspect
sloping down from the mountain top with ridges separated from
each other by of mountains while all around
the surface is covered with stunted grass and of the
precipice is covered with brush. Among several species of
the cactus spring up in great luxuriance. The town of
Valpariso from our anchorage presents a most and
despicable appearance owing to its very uncared for ground
it is built on.
The government offices paid us the usual visit. Many of our ship
mates
went ashore; some did not come back at night and those who came
presented the usual spectacle of inebrious. This is our nineteenth
Sunday out from Baltimore. We have no prayers today in consequence
of
the excitement and bustle attending our coming into port
Monday 18th - the ship has been nearly deserted by the passengers
today. The most of them having gone into town. I dressed at an early
hour and in company with others started for the town. We took a
tour
in the country; we must have walked 2 miles that day. After viewing
the country around Valpariso, we returned to the ship very much
fatigued indeed.
-30
This being winter we cannot judge of the production of the country
but
I am told by those that reside in the country that about 20 miles
from
the city is a fertile soil and adapted to the growth of any small
grain. Wheat grows 60-70 bushels to the acre and it is decidedly
the
finest quality of wheat that I ever saw. Their corn is not so fine,
the grain is small but their ears are long. Provisions of all kinds
are in abundance here. Cabbage the largest heads I ever saw, onions
as
large as my head, potatoes are very plenty and very fine sells for
50
cents per bushel, grapes in abundance and are the most delicious
fruit
imaginable. In my walk I stumbled on a man ploughing; he had for
a
plough a piece of board for a shear with one handle attached to
it and
in the place of horses they had oxen attached to the plough. They
were
sowing barley. They would sow it on the ground before ploughing.
We
found we were disappointed in some extent by the view from the harbor.
Such parts of it that has been regularly laid off in streets is
neatly
built up in the European fashion; but the outskirts of it are amid
walled cabins built irregularly up and down the broken hillsides.
There is a strict and effective police here. They are not very clean
or noble looking but being mounted on horses or mules using long
sabers they keep the thoroughfare free from all rowdies and musicians.
Tuesday 19th - This day the most of our passengers are ashore. The
crew has commenced getting out the freight for the place.
Wednesday 20th - Very little done at the ship in consequence of the
difficulty in obtaining lighters to take the freight ashore.
Thursday 21st - Still there is but little done in discharging freight.
There are but few accommodations in this port for discharging freight.
Friday 22nd - All the passengers that remained on board are fishing
from the sides of the ship with very good success. The freight is
being removed slowly. 2 of our passengers got in a difficulty today
in
which one of them got his eye considerably blackened. There were
also
knives drawn but none used. it seemed to prove a serious effect
upon
one of the men who remained upon deck all night with a loaded pistol
declaring that he would shoot the other.
Saturday 23rd - This day nothing remarkable. The freight being removed
slowly. The passengers generally are fishing and the remainder ashore.
The passenger mentioned in yesterday's entry,
-31
who remained upon deck all night, has shown symptoms of a deranged
mine. It was thought proper, by the passengers, to take from him
his
ammunition and fire arms. At night he was taken to the cabin.
Sunday 24th - This morning very hazy and looked as if rain was at
hand, though it cleared away about 8 o'clock. In company with some
of
the passengers I went to town for the purpose of attending devine
services. At the hour for service we started for the church, the
Catholic Church. We there saw some very pretty ladies. The ladies
are
much prettier than the ladies of Rio de Janiero. They have a very
pretty Church finished up inside in the most gorgeous style. They
have no pews in the churches here. They all bring along with them
their mats and spread them on the floor and sit down on them. They
have two or three Catholic Churches here. None very large but
finished off inside most beautifully. In the evening we took a stroll
over the eastern part of the city and was very much entertained
by
the strange and different features of the town and its inhabittants
from those of the civilized and refined of our country. The people,
though not worthy of the appelation of civilized in every nice
respect, are nevertheless worthy of it, and in comparison might
throw
ours in the shade when we take into consideration their kind of
homely civility. In person they are generally below middle size
with
yellow or swarthy complexion, black hair which in the females adds
considerably to their appearance from its luxuriance and glossy
hue,
added to the expression of their full black eyes. Their dress is
of
the plainest description but always neat and clean. Their houses
are
funished in the plainest style. There is but few streets of good
built houses They have a very good Custom House; their military
barracks and theaters are but common. There are but two Protestant
Churches the one are Presbyterian and the other the Established
Church of England. The harbor is sheltered from all except the north
wind. On the first sign of the approach of the latter there is
telegraphic notice given to the vessels in our harbor so that they
may be ready to meet the danger. On this day the signal, a black
ball, was hoisted above the flags and when we arrived at the landing
to return to the boat we found that in consequence of the norther
we
had to pay double the usual price to get to the boat.
Monday 25th - Some of the freight is hoisted today from the hold,
but
none taken to the shore in consequence of the very heavy swells.
Tuesday 26th - A lighter came alongside this morning but in
consequence of the insolence of the second mate to the owner
-32
of it there was nothing sent ashore by it, nor did any other come
today.
Wednesday 27th - A lighter norther settled in this morning
accompanied with a light rain which increased towards evening and
continued all night. The most of the freight to be left at this
place has been got on deck.
Thursday 28th - This morning set in with a drizzling of rain.
There is considerable swell in the harbor and a light north wind
blowing. The weather is very wet and damp and the streets are knee
deep in mud.
Friday 29th - Went ashore today to look after some things which we
have to purchase for the company. After attending to those things
and having no conducement to stay any longer in the mud of the
town, I returned to the ship. Nothing has been done to get out
freight for three days.
Saturday 30th - Very heavy rain, north wind blowing; nothing doing
on board. Dropped our other anchor today. The stream boat for
Panama went out harbor today at 2 o'clock.
Sunday Ist July - Last night and today a heavy norther blowing
into the port accompanied with incessant and heavy rain. Every
precaution that experience could suggest has been made use of to
prevent the ship from dragging her anchor. The sea has been
running mountain high and some of the ships in the harbor have
dragged their anchors very near the shore. But fortunately for
them the wind lulled in the 'evening but the seas continued
running very high. There has been no prayers on board today in
consequence of the heavy storm.
Monday 2nd Incessant rain; light norther.
Tuesday 3rd Rain morning, cleared off in the afternoon and
the sea, which had not yet subsided after the late norther,
is now becoming placid. This evening some of the prepar-
ations are being made on board to celebrate with eclat the
anniversary of the Declaration of Independence of the United
States. The old gun on the quarter deck has been cleaned
and got in readiness for the morrow.
Wednesday 4th - This morning we were awoke by the report of our
gun which was fired 3 times, but of all the US vessels in port
only one answered us. There is no American man of war vessels
here. All the government vessels in port is a Revenue Cutter. She
did not seem to take any notice of this
-33
day more than any other. Many of our shipmates went to town today
to
enjoy themselves; while those that remained on board passed the
day as
pleasant as their circumstances would allow. They had a better dinner
than usual. That is to say they had fresh meat. At sunset the old
stern
gun was manned and a salute of 12 rounds fired in the finest style.
When
we gave 6 cheers and lowered the flag, the Declaration of Independence
was read by a passenger, Mr. Detrozler. The last notable occurance
of
this fourth of July was a smart shock of earthquake felt in the
town and
on the ship in the harbor.
Thursday 5th - Nothing occured today of importance. One of the
passengers came on board very much intoxicated. While one of the
passengers was trying to get him into bed, the drunken fellow cut
him
very seriously in the arm.
Saturday 7th - The ship received freight today from town. I went
ashore
to purchase some provisions today and other things that we have
forget
to bring along with us.
Sunday 8th - The children has celebrated this as St. Peter's Day
as the
inclemency of the weather on the 29th ultimate would not permit
them to
celebrate it on that day. The military were in full dress and mustered
earlier than usual. The inhabitants of any age or size and sex were
dressed in thin holiday attire. Rockets were seen ascending from
different parts of the city. The Chilean vessels in the harbor cast
their national flags to the breeze. But the most novel spectacle
of the
day was a precission or execution of boats intended to represent
St.
Peter at his business as a fisherman previous to his call to the
ministry. They comprised every description of canoes, ships and
whale
boats, lighters and etc. in the eastern extremity of the town where
a
triumphal arch and other preparations were made. At the landing
of the
small boats or at least the procession of boats. Everything indicated
a
general holiday though on the whole it looked like a ridiculous
for a
Church ceremony. No Church on board today.
Monday 9th - The remainder of the freight which we expected to receive
today has not arrived on board nor did the water boat come either.
The
day was spent by the crew in replacing things on deck where they
had
been before coming into port.
Tuesday 10th - Very little doing for the furtherance of the much
desired
exit from this port.
Wednesday Ilth - We expected to get away today. But instead of that
the
day has been spent in taking in freight. We hope to get off tomorrow.
-34
Thursday 12th - After much bustle in the forenoon we succeeded in
getting
ready for sea and weighed anchor about 2 o'clock p.m. Starting out
to sea
with a fresh and favorable breeze. The Custom House officers took
back a
Chilean passenger from our ship because he didn't conform to the
laws of
the Country in procuring a passport. He had bought the ticket of
one of
our passengers who had to leave us and go the hospital in consequence
of
consumption. We find we have three Chileans and three sailors stowed
away
on board besides 2 Chilean passengers who purchased tickets from
2 of the
passengers who remained in Valpariso. The last sight of land which
in
consequence of the fair wind was left so far behind as to appear
nearly
distinct became finally shut out from sight by the vial of night.
Friday 13th - Sailing before a light breeze all day. Two ships that
have
been in sight since we left Valpariso are still in sight ahead of
us.
Saturday 14th - Very light wind this morning which settled into calm
about 9 o'clock today. Since yesterday we have come upon the two
vessels
which were ahead of us and with the light wind of the morning passed
by
one of them. Lat 29 0 37'.
Sunday 15th - Sailing before a light south wind. The two vessels
mentioned above are in company. 23 Sundays out from Baltimore. No
prayers
in the steerage today. At 9 o'clock p.m. one of the ships in company
ran
across our bow; in doing so we had like to run into her.
Monday 16th - We are progressing slowly but constantly as the light
trade
winds are our constant friend. One of the ships still in company
and
holds the same distance since the first day from Valpariso. Lat
27 0 26'
south.
Tuesday 17th Nothing of importance occured.
Friday 20th Lost sight of the JULIUS CEASAR last night. Becalmed
again today.
Saturday 21st - Light and variable winds constantly changing and
trimming
the sails without much success. Seen a vessel towards our course
steaming
south. There are many whales about our ship. They are the largest
that we
have seen yet. This night we have had a concert of three violins
and a
display of dancing that we have not seen the equal of for many months.
It
was performed by an Irishman, who has been 15 years in Australia.
Some of
his time being spent on the stage. He was taken on board as a sailor
in
Valpariso where he ran away from an English ship.
-35
Sunday 22nd - The breeze which for the last five days has been very
changeable and
unfavorable, this forenoon more steady, fresh and favorable. At
12 o'clock
our latitude 23 0
151 proving that we have entered the Southern Tropic. This morning
is the
24th Sunday on
board ship.
Monday 23rd - Nothing remarkable; wind light and fair.
Wednesday 24th - Wind fair and freshens constantly.
Thursday 26th - The southeast winds are taking us on finally. Latitude
19 0
22' south.
Friday 27th - The wind has grown more fresh and steady. We are running
about 6 knots on an
average.
Saturday 28th - Our friend the SE wind are driving us along at 8
knots
easy. Had a dance on
deck this evening.
Sunday 29th 0 - Wind continues steady. At 12 o'clock our latitude
was 12
57' south. No
religious meeting today.
Monday 30th - Sailing NW about 8 knots. Latitude 11 0 30'.
Tuesday 31st - Running before the SE trade winds which for 0 the
last nine
days has been our
constant companion. Lat 10 27'.
August 1st - This night was spent upon deck in a stirring manner.
First we
had a dance; then a
mimics procession and ovation without any other design but amusement.
But
the speaker
turned it to advantage by making it appear that it was got up for
the
purpose obtaining lights for
the steerage the oil being out. The meeting was suddenly dispensed
by some
mischevious one
throwing a bucket of water on the crowd.
August 2nd - Nothing of any consequence.
August 3rd - Running at a fine sail of 8 knots per hour.
August 4th - Still running before the trades. August 5th - The wind
not so
fresh as it has been.
August 6th - Very near a calm today. August 7th - As same today
as it was
yesterday. August
8th - Making a little. August 9th - Very near the line; will cross
in a day
or two. August 10th -
Very light wind making a little.
-36
August 11th - We cross the equator sometime today and tonight old
neptune
came on board
and had fine sport. They caught everyone that they could get to
and took
them on deck, put
them in a tub of water and washed them and shaved them. Those that
refused
to go had to pay a
bottle of whiskey or brandy. They took the most of them not willing
to pay
the penalty. I got
off by telling them that I did not wish to get wet as I had a toothache.
Sunday August 12th - This day was spent most of the 0 pasengers reading
the
bible etc. We are
in latitude 3 45'.
Monday 13th - We have an excellent wind running NW by W at the rate
of 5 or
6 knots. Lat 0
53' North.
Tuesday 14th - This day we have a fine wind running at the rate of
10 knots
per hour. Seen a
ship in front of us today. We are gaining on her and by tomorrow
evening we
will overhaul her.
Seen thousands of porpoises about the ship. Lat 6 0 031 North. Had
a
collision on deck
tonight.
Wednesday 15th - The wind increased last night and this morning,
we hare
running 10 knots
per hour North. We have overtaken the vessel that we came in sight
of
yesterday and about 13
o'clock we passes her. Latitude 8 0 541 north.
Thursday 16th - Today the wind is blowing a gale. Had to reef the
Mains and
fonti tops gallant
sail. We are running very fast in lat 110 311 today at noon.
Friday 17th - The wind changed at 4 o'clock this morning and we are
now
tacking about, the
wind being dead ahead. We are making very little by tacking. Lat
120 54'
north.
-37
Saturday 18th - Still head wind. Raining most constantly. We are
tacking
about. This evening
the winds seem to change a little. Lat 13 0 06' north.
Sunday 19th - Last night the wind became very fresh for a short time.
But
this morning we are
becalmed. Twenty passengers has been fishing today and caught 9
very large
albacores.
Monday 20th - The wind is the contrary way this morning and we are
running
N by E.
Tuesday 21st - Still head winds.
Wednesday 22nd - We have a heavy gale today. Running under close
reefed top
sails.
Thursday 23rd - The storm continues today. But with not as much
violence as yesterday. This evening the wind changed and we are
now
running on our course.
Friday 24th - We have a fair wind this morning and running at 5 or
6
knots. Lat 21 0 161 north.
Saturday 25th - We are running at a fine rate. Made a good run last
night and today at noon we are in 22 0 54' north latitude.
Sunday 26th - We are heading W by NW with a 8 knot breeze. This
weather is getting something colder. It has been very warm, indeed
we left the tropics last night about 11 o'clock. Lat 24 0 21' north.
Monday 27th - The wind still continues to blow from the 0
north and we are running NW by W at 10 knots. Lat today 25
28' north, longitude 130 west.
Tuesday 28th - We are still running west by northwest at 10 knots.
Wednesday 29th - Last night the wind blew very hard. They had to
reef the main top gallant sheets and take in the royal. This morning
it is more calm, and we are heading northwest by west. Latitude
at
noon 29 0 49' longitude 134 0 401.
Thursday 30th - The wind continues to blow from the same quarter
and
we are running from the west.
Friday 31st - We are still running on the same tack with a northeast
wind being a head wind. Latitude they did not get today in
consequence of it being cloudy.
Saturday Sept. 1st - Last night we tried the ship on another tack,
but we lost more than we would make so we changed her on the old
tack that we have been running for 10 days. The wind is coming
favorable from the same quarter. Lat 38 0 431.
Sunday 0 2nd - Still dead ahead wind, running north by west Lat 36
56'.
Monday 3rd - We are on the other tack today running southeast. We
are in Lat 38 0 15'.
Tuesday 4th - Still running southeast dead ahead wind. The northeast
trades blowing constantly for 3 weeks past. The Captain run west
expecting to catch the northwest wind but
-38
was disappointed. We are now opposite of San Francisco and cannot
run
there, the wind being ahead.
Wednesday 5th The wind is blowing very hard and from the
same quarter. No likelihood of a change.
Thursday 6th Last night it calmed off and this morning we
are lying still, the sails flapping.
Friday 7th - Still a calm. Lat 34 0 101. Longitude 135 0 001.
Saturday 8th - Last night the wind freshened up a little. What little
there is it is fair but it is very light. After noon it got stronger.
We
are now making 5 knots. Latitude 35 0 09' north.
Sunday 9th - The wind has hauled around and we are running northeast
by
east which is two points off our course. The breeze has freshened
a
little. We are making 5 knots. Lat 35 0 261, Long 131 0 241.
Monday 10th - We are becalmed this morning. The wind is likely to
change
and most likely fair.
Tuesday 11th - We have a light breeze today and fair,
Wednesday 12th - We are again becalmed this morning but the wind
sprung
up this evening and fair.
Thursday 13th - We have a fair breeze this morning running northeast.
Lat
360 131. 140 miles from land.
Friday 14th - We came in sight of land this morning and anchored
in the
harbor of San Francisco about 2 o'clock. 211 days from Baltimore.
-39
HIS RETURN HOME
With this simple statement, the diary of Hammond's experiences during
this
time comes to an end. But this is however, far from the end of the
story.
Little is known of his success mining gold in California. He did
remain
there for several years, during which time he purchased a ranch.
It is
evident that he enjoyed some small measure of success.
While in California, Worthington Hammond became ill. Nicholas arranged
for
his brother to return home. Their means of transportion is not known;
the
trip, however, expended most of the remaining gold that Nicholas
had
acquired. In existence today is a ring made from a gold nugget he
brought
back with him; it is inscribed with the initials of his wife.
During his return trip, Nicholas made his way overland to St. Joseph,
Missouri where he loaded a set of Fairbanks Scales on a wagon and
transported them across country to either Oregon or Washington.
This
equipment was supposed to enhance the growth and shipment of wheat
from the
Northwest.
Family tradition has it that at one point during this trip, Nicholas
was
captured by Indians, only to find that the Chief's son had been
a student
with him at the Maryland Agricultural School (now the Univeristy
of
Maryland). He apparently spent some time at the Indian encampment
on his
way back to Maryland.
Hammond returned to Maryland about 1857. He purchased the Hammond
homestead, Peace and Plenty, two miles north of New Market, Howard
County.
He and his family lived there until after the Civil War.
Hammond then purchased the old Warfield estate, Bushy Park, from
a Mr.
Chadwick of New York City. Chadwick had obtained the estate from
the
Warfield family in 1873.
Like many homes of the period, Bushy Park has a story all its own.
Major Charles Alexander Warfield, born circa 1750, began Bushy Park
as a
log cabin and continued its erection in 1771. He was one of the
early
espousers for the cause of Independence. He was active in his practice
of
medicine for 42 years. Warfield was largely responsible for the
burning of
the PEGGY STEWART in Annapolis harbor. He was also instrumental
in the
formation of the Whig Club which was a strong force in Howard and
Ann
Arundel Counties both preceding and during the War of the Revolution.
Warfield is buried in a cemetery which was behind the apple orchard
which
stood behind the great house until it burned in the late 1930's.
Nicholas Hammond wooed and won Mary Ellen Wood daughter of Reverend
John
and Ruth Burgess Wood. They married prior to the start of the War
and
resided at Bushy Park until their deaths. Nicholas' spirit remained
undiminished by the blindness of his later years. He would sit in
the shade
of an old corncrib by the roadside stopping and questioning every
passerby.
Once satisfied as to their purpose, he would allow them to pass.
Nicholas Hammond is buried at Oak Grove Cemetery, Glenwood, Howard
County
with his wife. His family continues. Descendants of Nicholas Worthington
Hammond today reside in New Jersey.
-40
HIS GENEALOGY
John Hammond's four sons, Charles, John, William and Thomas, all
intermarried with other prestigious early families of the Western
Shore
counties of Ann Arundel and Howard.
The sons of John and Mary Howard Hammond were allied through marriage
to
the Howard, Heath and Greenberry families.
Charles Hammond (1670-1713) married his cousin Hannah Howard, daughter
of
Phillip and Ruth Baldwin Howard. Phillip was a brother to Mary Howard
Hammond.
Thomas Hammond ( -1724) married (1) Rebecca Larkin, daughter of John
Larkin
and widow of Thomas Lightfoot. He married (2) Mary Heath, daughter
of
Thomas Heath.
William Hammond ( -1710) married Elizabeth Cockey. They were the
parents of
several children.
John Hammond (1665-1742) married in 1696 Ann, daughter of Nicholas
Greenberry and Ann his wife. Interesting to note is the will of
Nicholas
Greenberry. It has the proviso that daughter Ann's portion of the
estate
was to be held for her until after the death of her husband John
Hammond.
After her death the portion would pass to her children.
It seems that Nicholas Greenberry did not approve Ann's husband.
Another interesting involvement is the intermarriage of the Hammonds
with
the Raitt family. John Raitt Sr. of Ann Arundel County, sheriff
and
merchant died on 30 June 1758. He left his widow and children John
Jr.,
Barbara Ariana, George, Ann and Harriot. Nathan Hammond (1731-1811)
married
the widow Ann Raitt sometime between 27 March 1759 and 4 April 1759.
His
brother Phillip (1744-1799) married Barbara Ariana Raitt. His sister
Hannah
married John Raitt Jr. This made Nathan (1731-1811) their brother,
stepfather, brother-in-law, and father-in-law. Ann Raitt married
9 August
1759 John Duckett; Harriot married Marmaduke Winell prior to 1768.