: ^ o > . *. *?» -^^0^ D- ■"^o ^p-^^. ,^' u 0^^ -V "-. •• .0' •" -^ ^V -- A ^ V*''^^^^^* > .v-^ *° ^ -^ ^"(/J%.^v)^'/ '^^^^ ^0 c " " " t "^o ^ <^ ^?:?^.- .^' .* ^r <*. V ^ .0' •^0^ "oK AT THE Fishermen's Own Book, COMPRISING THE LIST OF MEN AND VESSELS LOST FROM THE PORT OF GLOUCESTER, MASS., FROM 1874 TO APRIL I, 1882, A Table of Losses from 1830, TOGETHER AVITH VALUABLE STATISTICS OF THE FISHERIES, NOTABLE FARES, NARROW ESCAPES, STARTLING ADVENTURES, FISHERMEN'S OFF-HAND SKETCHES, BALLADS, DESCRIPTIONS OF FISHING TRIPS OTHER INTERESTING FACTS AND INCIDENTS CONNECTED WITH THIS BRANCH OF MARITIME INDUSTI^'y' 53^"' . GLOUCESTER : PROCTER BROTHERS, Publir^hers, f.VPF, ANX ADVERTISRU OFFICE. ^7 Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1882, by PROCTER BROTHERS, In the oftice of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. TABLE OF CONTENTS. Preface, Early Fisheries of Cape Ann (illus. with models of fishing vessels), A Remarkable Escape on Board Sch. Codseeker, Gloucester Harbor in 1806 (illustrated with map), . A Winter's Trip to Georges (illlustrated), .... Table, giving Prices of Mackerel for the Past 52 Years, . Leaves from a Log-Book — Remarkable Adventures, etc. (illustrated) Notable Fishing Fares (illustrated), . The Old-Time Fishery at 'Squam, Homeward Bound, . . . . . . Products of the Gloucester Fisheries, Return of the Dories (illustrated), Quick Passages (illustrated), .... Song of the Winter Fisherman, First Trips, ....... Large Fish (illustrated), ..... Gloucester Harbor in 1830 (illustrated), . U. S. Fish Commission — Summer Headquarters in Gloucester, Around Cape Ann, ...... Sch. Sultana Towed by a Whale (illustrated), . Loss of Sch. Henrietta Greenleaf, Gill-Net Codfishing in Ipswich Bay (illustrated), A Day at the Beach (illustrated). In Memoriam. .List of Lost Men and Vessels of the Port of Glouc ester from 1874 to 1881, inclusive, Table, giving the Losses for 52 Years, Welcome Home — A Romance in a Fisherman's Life (illustrated), The Fisher-Boy in the Storm (illustrated), Halibut Fishing among the Ice Floes, List of Vessels Belonging to the Port of Gloucester in 1850 (illus.). The Phantom Boat, ..... A Trawling Trip (illustrated), .... Massachusetts Mackerel Catch for 74 Years, . The Fortune Bay Riot, ..... Importance of Fish Culture (illustrated), . The Fisheries of the Olden Time, ... Salmon Fishing at the Mouth of the Columbia River, Oregon (illus.) On the Beach in a Storm (illustrated). Narrow Escape of Sch. David A. Story (illustrated). Hammerhead Shark— The Shark's Mouth— Shark Fishing (illus.). No More Sea CONTENTS. Fishermen's Superstitions, ...••• The Old Fort and Gloucester Harbor in 1837 (illustrated), Foreign Commerce of Gloucester (illustrated). Fishermen Coming into Port. From the Home of the Fish to the Table of the Consumer (illustrated), The Regatta (^illustrated), A Night in Boston Bay, ...•••• Truthful and Startling Accounts of Tough Times, etc. (illustrated), The Frenchman's Stew and the Disgusted Irishmen, Dory Voyages across the Atlantic (illustrated). On Hoard a Mackerel Catcher, . . . . , The Merry, Merry Mackerel Catchers (illustrated), . Saving the Cable, ....•••• A Summer Trip to Georges (illustrated), .... Rob's First Cruise (illustrated), Lost in the Fog (illustrated), Crippled on the "Home Stretch" (illustrated), The December Gales of 1876 (illustrated). Fearful Hvperience on Board Sch. Howard, Thacher's Island, ........ Foundering of Sch. Almon Bird, The Harbor Bar (illustrated), Ninety-Three Voyages to Surinam (illustrated), Recollections of a Veteran Fisherman, .... Making a Harbor in a Snow Storm, .... An Old Boat (illustrated; Hand-Line Mackerel Fishing, "Setting Under Sail," [n a Fog on the Banks (illustrated), .... Lines on the Loss of Sch. Guy Cunningham and in Memory of he Master, Capt. Daniel O'Brien, ..... Around the Wharves of Old Gloucester Half a Century Ago, The Jolly Yachtsman (illustrated), ..... The Haddock Fisheries — Then and Now, A Mackerel Catcher Dressing Her Fare by Moonlight (illustrated), Frightened by the Moon, (iloucester Harbor (illustrated), Adventures of (^apt. Richard Murphy, .... The Open Sea, ........ Gloucester's Exhibition at the Centennial, The Widow's .\ppeal to the Winds and Sea (illustrated), I'icking the Nets and Trawls (illustraled), A Fishing Party (illustrated), "Not a Bene," ........ I'he Mackerel Pocket, or " Spiller," .... On the Loss of the "Royal George," .... .\ Banker Discharging Her Fare (illustrated), . Loss of I.,ifc and Vessel Properly from January i to April i, i{ List of Vessels Comprising the (iloucester Fishing Fleet, and Owners or I'itters, . . . . 882, their C$.0¥^X$fC FOR THE FISHERMEN! Consisting of the largest variet}' of Double-Breasted Sack Suits, Double-Breasted Vests, with Peg-Top Pants to match, Large Leg Pants, small bottoms, Short Reefing Jackets, Rubber Overcoats, long. Rubber Suits, Mittens and Leggings. ALSO "^^oolon Goods. f NAMELY : Jumpers, Shirts, outside and inside, Socks, Drawers, Mittens, SGAtf S, GAtMGAN JACKETS, GAFS, In fact, everytliing in tlie line for Business or Dress up, at the lowest prices for quality of goods. All are cordially invited. J. $. TAPPAN £ SON, 1 12, 1 14, 1 16 Main St., GLOUCESTER. Ye Jolly Fishermen who Sail from Old Cape Ann, The fisher's life is the life you love, And you love the si)iirklfu^ wave ; And hence you slide o'er the stormy tide In Ijir pursuit of the finny tribe, With hearts so light and hrave. On Georges Bank, at Newfoundland, On the coast of Labrador, The lines you fling, and you laugh aud sing, And make your merry voices ring 'Hound Nova Scotia's shore. ^^d \y]\Qi] ill •poi't yoti will doii\e to 'S S IT©: >T. w hero there is no need of these coiijtant " mauk downk" advertised by other Clothing stores, as I mark my «ood:i tow enough the llrst going oil", as " the Smis of the Cape" know well. NiMu- can undersell me, as I buy lor aisli, have no big rents or big intei-est account, aud but \ery liltie <>ld stork to carry. Everything on board my craft is snug and trim. Always ready to show my goods, and always having the new styles. 1 don't sell /<'.<.< ^ft'/;i fo.'*/— neither does any other cstalilishnicMil ; and when they advertise in tills manner, it is all moonshine, and " the Sons of the (;Mpe" know this to be true. These iiiar-k- ilowiin iif iihiiiit jll'tij ciiitH on II iliiUar don't pan out well either, as peoiile are not fond of this style of doing bn-i|ness,' and if i\\f\ are, they couliln'l stand it a great while ; hence it is inferred that they don't do it, and the people woiTt -.wallow such titffii. livery eii-|umcr ;.'i|., the full value of his money in ijoud lionv.il r; !:<;, Caps and Gents' Furnish I ny Goods. ffir I don'l sell at coul or /«•«« tliitn roxl, but a fair living profit, which enables me to "live and let live," anil I eoidlally Invite IIionc who believe in Scpiare Mealing to visit my establishment. B€aanfa€tns@r @ff 9 StaoW Black Uellow Cape Hon Oil Clothinj Lincoln and Cape Ann Sou' Westers, Fancy and Cape Ann Lont Coats, Fishermen's Outfits, YMorrn, mass., custom House. POKTSMOI'TH, X. H., Custom House. rUOVINCKTOWN, CAl'E COD, Custom House, Post Office, and at the Office of the " Advocate." SHKLMorUMO, N. S., Mr. G. Holiertson's. SYDNKY, C. I?., Messrs. Arehihuld it Co.'s. ST. PIKKIH:, MH^rKhON.Tlii' American House (U. S. Consulate.) XKW YOUK (li; IJroad SI.) | |{(»S'I'(>\ (IU2 Stale St.) | The Stations of the Direct Iniled Slatts Cable KVK in;.\CH, N. H. ■ Comi)anv. TOUItAY, .N. .S. I \U ( )i;i>Kl{ (»l Till', r>()Ai;t) OF DlUECTOKS. Head Office of the Company, 52 OLD BROAD ST., London, England. FfltriKirv. lHS-_>. i- JOHN LLOYD'S Undertaker s Wareroom, NO. 2 WESTERN AVENUE, Gloucester, Mass. Coffius, Caskets, Robes, Habits, Caps, &c, constantly on hand. Children's Robes and Dressf made to order. Personal attention given to attending Funerals, and also to layiug-out and pr paring the dead for burial. ^ a©,. XiE-a^i-iEies lOiT- IIBER, BMREIS, HOOPS, HI!, SIRIW, BRIIRS, HUE, tEMEIl POTATOES, BEANS, &C. Wharf on Commercial St., Gloucester, Mass. A.W.DODD&CO, I LD.LOTHROP, a Manufacturer and Dealer in IMPORTERS AND DEALERS IN I FISH OiLsJFISHING TACEl Pure Cod Liver Oil, For Medicinal Purposes. HOOKS, LINES, SINKERS, BEAS AND HORN SWIVELS, HAW- SES, SPREADERS, &c. 33 DUNCAN ST., GLOUCESTEf WMBT. wSoviJ^Si^e; s'i^S f)5;Si,5e;fv p. BENJAMIN, I B. W. WEST. ( est-^i^XjIsiteis ie-i3. J. T. DONNELL&CO., B-A-TIoC, HNv^^^inSTE, airsrg AS' 01 A. n# i Oi^ EVERY DESCRIPTION, The undersigned, our Agents at GLOVCBSTBR, Mass., keep constanth" in store a large assortment of Cables and Manila Cor- dage, and will take orders for Gangs of Hussia or Atnerican Hetnp Itoj)ef which will be of best qualit}', and sold at lowest market rates. Orders solicited, and filled with promptness. PETTINGELL & CUNNINGHAM. #Tl! Wm \Vl)ole^ale Deklei' ii) Hartae, Manila M Hemii Corflap Gangs of Rigging and a Full Line of Fishing Supplies., 33 to 32 Pearl St., « « » SAVE YOUR MONEY BY HAVING YOUR OlctlxirLg- ID^T-ed., OleairLsed., ZRepairecL. iiitil put in t/ir hint 0/' ortlrr tit a trljliiiy rx- priiHv. Svciiuil-hanil Cliitliiinf tmnlr to look im good an tn'tr, hjf A. A. ROBINSON, liasenient lieliiionl House. Main St., (Jluiicestcr. DAVID G.ALLEN, l>i;.\I.I.U IN ALL KINDS <.)1" Xj-a-mloer, Cement, Uair, Doors, Blinds, Windows, Window Frames, Nails, Fjead, Zinc, Sinks, -<^^;>" DEALERS IN ALL KLNDS OF SALT WATER FISH, PARKHURST'S WHARF. Slade Gorton. 1). 0. Marshall. .^f^TIBD^T COPPER PAINT, For Vessels' Bottoms. A test of 18 years proves this Paint to he the best in the market. MANUFACTURED at GLOUCESTER, MASS. 149 Main Street, GLOUCESTER, Mass. iS TIlis Iloust' lijis licen newly fitted, and has all the modem improvemeuts for the accommodation of pcrmanfiit and transient Boarders. It is heated by steam in "Winter, and well ventilated for .Summer. liJites per day to suit every customer. This House is within two minutes' walk of the Post Oflice, with a full view of the Harbor. If you want a .Summer or WinU;r home, go to the BELMONT HOUSE, 149 Main Street, Glouc- ester, Mass. I Flmt-ClosK Ilrsttnird nt <- knowing full well what dread uncertainties - lie between his departure and return. The sailing day may occur at any season, and ________ ., each time may vary in some particulars, though the general features remain the same. The account of the day of which I now write I find in my journal under date of January 24, 1879. The men composing our crew came down to the wharf, alongside of which lay our vessel, about half-past eight o'clock in the morning, many of them bringing a small calico bag containing a small supply of clean clothes, and providing themselves at the fitting-out store with pipes and tobacco for the trip. Two of the crew are sent off to the "baiter "—a vessel lying at anchor S2 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. in the harbor with flag flying — and soon return with four or five thousand stiffly frozen herring, which are hastily stored in the hold under straw to prevent their thawing. A little before noon — the tide ser\ing at that time — we got underway and worked out of the harbor with a moderate southwest wind. Aftei passing Eastern Point our course was shaped east by south, and we went skipping away before the wind, leaving Brace's Cove, Bass Rocks, and Thacher's Island with its two tall lighthouses, on our port hand; while astern the snow-covered shores of Magnolia, and the more distant land about Salem and Marblehead soon grew indistinct, and was finally lost to view. In the meantime the ropes have been coiled, dories turned bottom up and securely lashed, and the vessel pumped out \ while our ears have been pleasantly greeted by the ding dong of the cook's dinner bell, calling us away from "straightening up things on deck." The crew is divided into two gangs for meals, the table in the forecastle not being large enough to accommodate all. One of the second gang now came aft saying: "I'll keep her along, skipper, while you get dinner," whereupon I gave up the wheel which I had held since starting, and went with the first gang down to din- ner. For dinner we had the usual first meal at sea, which, hastily prepared, consists of boiled salt beef and potatoes, white biscuits, pilot-bread and butter, strong tea and fried beefsteak. This bill of fare is very much changed as soon as the " Doctor " (cook) has time to prepare a greater variety, and though beefsteak or other fresh meat is rarely seen after the first few days out, the table is well provided with plenty of good bread, cakes, pies, &c., and last, though not least, the finest fish are served up in a manner rarely equalled elsewhere. After dinner the patent-log is put out, a note made of the bearing and distance of the land, and then everybody is called aft to "thumb the hat," in order that the watch may be set. All hands now stand around an inverted hat, taking hold of it so that the thumbs are on top of the rim. The skipper then turns away his head, and, reaching over, touches one of the thumbs, and then counts around from left to right any number previously decided upon. The first one that the count reaches has the first watch. The counting then begins at the next thumb with " One," and so on until each man knows his watch, and with the injunction from the skipper, " Remember now whom you call," the performance ends, and the one having the first watch takes the wheel. We now have an opportunity to notice critically the vessel, upon the mer- its of which we depend not only for the successful issue of the voyage, in a pecuniary sense, but for the preservation of life itself. She is a clipper schooner of 80 tons, with fine lines and broad beam, but "snug-rigged," that is, carrying but one jib, as befits the winter weather. Forward, on the FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 23 larboard side of the foremast, lies coiled a huge pile of nianila cable, four hundred fathoms, or nearly a half mile in length. The main deck is divided into small compartments by "checker planks" eight or ten inches wide, set on edge, crossing each other at right angles and securely fastened in their places ; they are to prevent the fish from sliding across the deck, and on top of these are placed the dories, three on each side of the vessel. The cabin is ten or eleven feet square, tastefully finished in ash and black walnut, and containing four bunks — one for my own use, the others for such members of the crew as have secured them by lot, since there are no under- officers to claim them by right. The furniture of the cabin consists of a stove securely fastened to the floor, a marine clock, looking-glass, barome- ter, and chronometer, the latter being placed on the seat which runs around the side of the cabin, supplying the place of chairs. The forecastle, also, is nicely finished, and forms the dining-room of the vessel and the sleeping apartment for part of the crew. A door opens from the forecastle into the forehold, where the provisions, water and fuel are stored, and where the cook has his pantry. Our crew, aside from the cook and myself, number twelve men : stout, hardy and brave fellows, selected for their proficiency as seamen and fisher- men. Each one is known to be "a good man on board a vessel," which means that he is an agreeable shipmate and can always be relied on to perform any necessary duty without flinching. But while we have been looking over the vessel, the wind has increased; the land has sunk below the horizon, and our little schooner is rushing along at a lively rate, occasionally sending her lee rail under, as she lurches in the rising sea ; while frequent dashes of spray come flying over the weather-quarter rail. A rival vessel, also bound to the Banks, is close by, and although our topmast bends and seems likely to go over the side, we do not shorten sail until we see a movement for that purpose on board the other. We have already carried our light sails long enough, and the stay- sail comes fluttering down to the deck, like a great white bird ; the gaff-top- sail is also clewed up, and away goes a man to furl it, nimbly climbing the rigging to the mainmast head. A little before seven o'clock, P. M., our- vessel took a heavy lurch to lee- ward, sending heV lee rail so far under that, when she straightened up, the deck was nearly full, and several bucketsful came down the companion-way, wetting the bed clothes in the lee bunks, and also the boots lying on the floor. This episode called forth exclamations more forcible than polite from the occupants of the lee bunks, and shouts of laughter from their compan- ions, who could see only the ludicrous side of the accident. The sea by this time had risen sharp and choppy, and so frequent were the lurches — the maniboom often going under to the slings — that we soon after double-reefed 2 4 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. the mainsail. This done, I go below for the night, giving the usual order to "call me if there is any change in the force or direction of the wind." Thus ends the first day out ; and never, perhaps, were words written which so fitly describe the situation of the outward bound fisherman as those of Byron, when he says : " Once more upon the waters ; yet once more, And the waves beneutli nie as a steed That knows his rider. Welcome to their roarl Swift be their guidance wiieresoe'er it lead ; Though tlie strained mast sliould quiver as a reed, Still must I on : for I am as a weed Flung from the rock, on ocean's foam to sail Where'er the surge may sweep, the tempest's breath prevail." RUNNING FOR THE BANK IN A GALE. Sunday, January 26///, 1879. — This day began with a strong breeze, west- nor'west, and the barometer, which was on 29.15, indicated still more wind. The night (or early morning) was intensely dark, and having previously taken in and furled the mainsail and gaff-topsail, we double-reefed the fore- sail at 1.20 A. M., and took the bonnet out of the jib. At this time the wind was increasing rapidly, blowing in sharp puffs, and hauling to N. N. E., while it grew cold very fast, causing the flying spray to soon congeal into ice on the rigging and such portions of the hull as were not too much under water. At 4.30 A. M. the wind had freshened to a gale, and the sea ran sharp and high, causing our v^essel, which was running with the wind abeam, to occasionally take a heavy lurch to leeward. Fearing the dories might be injured if we continued on our course, we furled the jib and hove to under the reefed foresail until 7 o'clock in the morning, at which time we kept off again, the wind in the interim having changed to N. N. W., which was fair for, us, though it was still blowing hard.* It was intensely cold all the morning and ice made rapidly on deck and about the rigging. Notwith- standing this, however, we set the jib and riding-sail soon after breakfast, and a half hour later saw a vessel at anchor ahead, which, as we approached nearer, we knew was the Everett Steele. There was no one to be seen on her deck, and as we passed close to her stern our men, most of whom had gathered aft on the quarter, joined in a general shout. This had the desired effect, and four or five of the Steele's crew rushed up, bare-headed and stocking-footed, to be greeted by the laughter of our fellows as we went dashing by. At lo o'clock, A. M., we passed a brig, which was lying to •The schooner Howard, of Gloucester, was knocked down and came near being lost in this gale; tin- Thresher, of the sam- port, also liad her deck swept, and it is believed by WVAWS that the (iweiidolen, whieli was also bjuud to the Banks, went down the same day, aincc she wan never seen afterwards. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 25 under main-staysail. She was badly iced up, and appeared to be laboring heavily, rolling her lee yard arms nearly to the surface of the water. To one standing upon the deck of our little schooner at this time, the scene, though grand and impressive, had a decidedly wintry and dreary look. The ice-covered hull and rigging, the dark masses of snow-laden clouds driven to leeward by the gale, which shrieked and whistled through the ropes, and lashed into the wildest fury the foam-flecked waters, piling them into huge waves, was a sight, that, once seen, could never be forgotten. But on we went, now plunging down the side of a big sea, again lurching heavily, filling the deck with water, which, as the vessel straightened up again, went dashing over to the weather-side, often out over the rail, and through the binnacle into the cabin. The remark of one of our boys, that "any one who can't swim had better take a back seat," was certainly very apt, but the gravity of the situation, and the damage incident to running in such a gale, with the sea on the quarter, was better expressed by the order frequently shouted to the man at the wheel, "Watch her sharp now! Keep your eye to wind'ard, and if you see a /;/§■ one* coming swing her off and let her take it stern to." During the afternoon there was a dangerous and nasty cross sea running, rendering it extremely unsafe to continue o"i our course during the night. We therefore took in the jib and furled it before dark, and at 5 o'clock, P. M. hove to under double reefed foresail and riding-sail. At 7 P. M. the gale still continues with undiminished force, but, like a gull with its head under its wing, our litle "sea-boat" rises and falls, safely breasting the foam-crested waves that go seething by, leaving behind them a phosphorescent track, which lights up the surrounding darkness, giving it a peculiarly weird and strange appearance. Thus closes this day, the events of which I now sit down to write before turning in for the night. WASHED OUT OF A DORY— A TERRIBLE STRUGGLE FOR LIFE. On a breezy day in November, 1880, the crew of the sch. Grace L. Fears, — a fresh halibut catcher which lay at anchor in the "Deep Water" — started out to haul riieir trawls. Although it was rough, the waves frequently break- ing, and the wind blew in gusty puffs, it was not considered exceptionally dangerous to venture out by the fishermen, since the tide, which ran quite strong to windward, would materially assist them in again reaching the vessel. In one of the dories were William T. Lee and Jack Devine. When these two had safely hauled the larger part of their trawl, and the boat, which *A largo breaking wave.' 2 6 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. had on board several halibut, lay hawsed up in such a manner that her side was somewhat exposed to the sea, a huge curling wave came tearing along, striking with full force both men and dory, the former being thrown over- board, and the latter nearly filled with water. Devine went over the side, but, fortunately for him, was near enough to grasp the gunwale of the boat and climb into her. With Lee, however, the case was quite different. The sea broke over the dory with such violence as to throw him a distance of a dozen or fifteen feet from her. He was so much encumbered with heavy clothing and sea-boots that he could not prevent himself from sinking. In the meantime his dory-mate fastened the trawl to the bow of the boat so as to keep her as nearly head to the sea as possible, and, frightened for his own safety, made desperate efforts to bail out the nearly filled dory. As good fortune would have it, however, the slacking of the trawl allowed the dory to drop slowly to leeward, and the tide also swept the struggling man slowly to windward, who, as he sank for the second, and, as he thought, last time, felt his hand come in contact with the trawl about two or three fathoms under water. It is said that a drowning man will clutch at a straw, and it requires no great stretch of imagination to understand how eagerly this stout line was grasped by the sinking fisherman. Though quite exhausted by his efforts, he still retained his wits and his indomitable courage, and at once began to haul himself toward the dory, hand over hand, along the line. Almost as soon as he began this process, one of the stout hooks caught in his forefinger and passed completely through it near the end. To an ordinary person this would have been certain death under such circumstances, but, determined not to give up while life lasted, he reached the other hand as far up on the trawl as he coukl, and, with a desperate pull, tore the hook com- pletely through or out of his finger end, making an ugly wound.* He was now able to proceed, but, just as he got his head above water and caught his breath, just at the very last instant of endurance, with his hand clutching the gunwale of the boat, a second hook caught in the leg of his trousers. Though he shouted to his companion, the man rendered no assistance, fear- ing that, should he move to the side, the water-logged dory would upset. Lee mustered all of his fast ebbing energies and, by one last and mighty effort, pulled himself over the side of the boat, and fell senseless to the bottom. All of this, though long in the telling, occupied a very short time, but the seconds were eventful ones ; and perhaps no better voucher for the invincible pluck of our fishermen could be given than by the statement of the single fact that, after recovering somewhat from his exhaustion, unmind- ful of his torn and bleeding finger as well as of the breaking waves sweeping •The mutiliitcd finder was seen by the writi'r while \c\ it roin:iino(l unhoiilccl, and its tiru iiml nian.Lrifd a,(i)raraii('o ffavc ample, proof of the desperate uature of the strujjgle iu which the woujid liad bccu nMieivod. FISHERMEN'S O WN BOOK. 27 by, Lee would not return to the vessel until he had finished hauling the trawl, thus accomplishing the task he started out to do. The above is one of the many instances that might be mentioned to show that some rnen seem endowed with a luck all their own in escaping from perilous positions when their companions, apparently in no worse a scrape, have lost their lives. This is largely due, to be sure, to their indomitable pluck and perseverance in efforts to save their lives so long as a breath remains, and a presence of mind that enables them to make the most of any fortunate circumstance. LOSS OF THE FOREST BELLE. The schooner Forest Belle was lost on her first trip to the Grand Bank in the latter part of 1868, and was supposed to have foundered in a furious tornado that swept the western Atlantic in December of that year. She was commanded by Capt. Moses M. Welch, a young man of great promise, who was so much esteemed by those of his own profession that several of his crew were skippers, who, having hauled up their own vessels, chose to make this trip to the Bank with him. In every sense the crew was an excellent one, and the vessel was considered one of the finest that ever sailed from Gloucester. The following comprised the crew : Robert M. Collins, Daniel Luf kin, Randall McLellan, Arthur Ulmer, Sylvanus Gott, Geo. Bartlett, Geo. Kane, John A. Kelly, James McDonald, Wm. Hickman and Wm. B. Rowe. Come, all you liardy fishermen. Who winter fishing go; Who face those northern wintry blasts — Fierce storms of hail and snow — Pause here awhile and listen. While a dreadful tale I tell Of a winter gale and the sad, sad loss Of the schooner Forest Belle. A finer vessel ne'er was launched, Or o'er the wild waves flew ; And braver hearts were never known Than those of her hardy crew. Twelve sturdy men in prime of life, Daring winter gale and storm, Left tender wives and mothers dear To watch for their return. 'Twas in the Fall of sixty-eight, November, the nineteenth day, These fearless men, with a nor'west gale, From Cape Ann bore away : Bound aw;iy unto the Grand Bank, O'er the white-capped waves they fly; Ah ! little dreamed those seuinan bold That so Boon they all must die. With tender words and fond caress They parted from those dear. " Cheer up," said they, " we'll soon be back. If God our lives doth spare." With aching hearts wives, mothers, weep — For none can tell the tale Of the Belle's sad fate, but all suppose She foundered in a gale. What those daring men did suffer No one will ever know. Upon tliat wild and wintry sea. When howling winds did blow. The raging waves engulfed their bark — No hand was there to save That little band of gallant men . From a cold and watery grave. God bless the mourning friends they've left, And comfort those who weep For husbands, sons and brothers dear, Now buried in the deep. Though parted from their loved ones here, There is a brighter shore. Where they may meet them once again • There partings are no raor« FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Notable Fishing Fares. Tliere is considerable rivalr}' among the Cape Ann skippers in the matter of bringing in large fares, and this friendly competition not only develops the skill and daring of the fishermen, but keeps them ever on the alert to try experiments and to discover new methods of catching fish and new fish- ing grounds, thus bringing into play those faculties which tend to promote the fishing interests and add to their productiveness. We have kept a rec- ord of many of these big trips, and take much pleasure in publishing them in the pages of the '"Fishermen's Own Book." BANK TRIPS. The best codfish fare ever landed at this port was in October, 1880, when the Br. sch. Kelso, Capt. Benjamin Hines, arrived here from Grand Bank with 220,000 lbs. large codfish, 90,000 to 100,000 lbs. medium and small do., and 1600 lbs. fletched halibut. The next best Bank fare was 300,000 lbs. codfish, in round numbers, landed in 1878 by sch. Herman Bahson, Capt- Charles J. Lawson, which schooner also landed 195,000 lbs. on one trip in 1880. The five best Bank fares ever landed by a single vessel were received n the sch. Grand Master, Capt. Byron Hines, of Pubnico, N. S., sailing from this port : in 1875 she landed a fare of 240,000 lbs.; in 1877, one of 270,770 lbs., stocking $6,580; in 1878, one of 250,000 lbs. ; in 1880, one of 250,000 lbs.; and in 1881, one of 275,000 lbs. Among other good codfish fares we notice those of the Centennial, 250,000 lbs. in 1878, and 250.000 lbs. in 188 1. Among other good fares in the last named year the Webster Sanborn hailed for 250,000 lbs., the New England for 225,000 lbs., the Shi- loli of this port, Hattie L. Newman of Beverly, and Water Lily of Yarmouth, N. S., each 200,000 lbs. ; the Davy Croekett. from a hand line trip to Western Bank, for 210,000 lbs., and the T/ires/ier for 190,000 lbs. codfish and 10,000 lbs. halibut. For the week ending Sept. 8 six Grand Bank fares were received, aggregating 1,115,000 lbs. codlish, including two fares of 250,000 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 29 and one of 225,000 lbs.; from March 8 to October 15 \\\& Josie M. Cahh:r- wood made five trips to the Western and Grand Banks and Banquereau, taking in round numbers 400,000 lbs. codfish and 55,000 lbs. halibut, stock- ing $10,475, believed to be the best season's work in the Bank codfishery. The largest amount of Bank codfish ever landed at Gloucester in a single week was 3,620,000 lbs., twenty-five fares, for the week ending July 27, 1876, the total codfish receipts for that week being 4,448,000 lbs.; for the week ending Sept. 16, 1880, fifteen fares of 2,057,000 Bank codfish were landed at Gloucester, and for the week ending Sept. 13, 1877, 2,000,000 lbs. Sch. Elytnout/i Rock took 225,000 lbs. on one Bank trip in 1878. On a five months' trip in 1873 sch. Carrie P. Alorton, Capt. Charles A. Keene, took 192,000 lbs. codfish and 28,050 lbs. halibut, stocking $7,888, the crew shar- ing $326.16, the best stock on one trip in this fishery of which we have any record. Sch. Knight Templar, Capt. Michael McDonald, stocked $7,681.25 on one trip in 1873, being absent only two and one-half months. In 1877 sch. Concord, Capt. John Dago, landed 185,000 lbs. codfish and 57,000 lbs. halibut, from a Western Bank trip, stocking $7,100 in four months and two days. Sch. Ben: Perky Poore, Capt. Charles H. Nute, landed 180,695 lbs. codfish and 10,597 ^^s- halibut from a fourteen weeks' trip in 1872, stocking $6,345.69, the crew sharing $257.29. In 1879 ^^^ Corinna H. Bishop arrived home in August from a seventeen weeks' Bank trip, with 186,780 lbs. large codfish, 2,315 lbs. small do., and 1,214 lbs. fletched halibut, having sold 14,000 lbs. in Newfoundland, giving her a catch of 204,309 lbs. fish. FLETCHED HALIBUT. The largest Bank fare of fletched halibut ever landed at Gloucester was 153,044 lbs. in sch. Reunion, Capt. Belcher Torrey, in 1868. She had also 23,875 lbs. codfish, and stocked on a twelve weeks' trip $8,354 (the best Bank stock on one trip yet reported), the crew sharing $286.63. FRESH HALIBUT. The largest fare of fresh halibut ever landed at Gloucester was 140,000 lbs., by sch. G. P. Whitman, Capt. Jerome McDonald, from a Bank trip in 1877. The next largest fare was landed by sch. Centennial, Capt. Dennis C. Murphy, from a three weeks' trip in 1876, landing 129,577 lbs. and 5,000 lbs. codfish; on her first ten trips the CentenJiial took 1,160,000 lbs. halibut. In 1875 s'^l"'- Chester R. Laivrence, Capt. Thomas Ilodgdon, took on one trip 126,566 lbs. halibut and 5.480 lbs. codfish. The next year sch. Davy Crockett took 103,000 lbs. on her first trip, which sold at 6 and 3 cts. per lb. for white and gray. Sch. Williain 2\ Merchant rook 103,450 lbs. in twenty- five days, in 186S. The best fare landed in 18S1 was brought in by the .^o FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. sch. Plymouth Rock ; she weighed off 96,539 lbs. halibut and 1,500 lbs. cod- fish, having a sufficient quantity of unsaleable halibut to bring her catch up to 100,000 lbs. ; her stock was $2,550, the crew sharing $85, on a voyage occupying four weeks and two days. Among the receipts in one week in 1876 were 114,540 lbs. in sch. Carrie P. Morton, 99.980 in sch. Davy Crock- ett, 95,000 lbs. in sch. Edwin C. DoUiver, and two other vessels had upwards of 70,000 lbs. each the same week. The largest amount of halibut ever received in Gloucester in a single week was for the week ending Feb. 10, 1881, when the receipts were 740,000 lbs. from the Hanks and 122,509 lbs. from Georges, 862,500 lbs. The best stock on a single trip in the Bank halibut fishery was made by sch. N. II. Phillips, Capt. William McDonald, in 187 1. She landed 47,650 lbs. halibut and 9,390 lbs. codfish, stocking in five weeks $5,361. Ii two successive trips that season she stocked $9,142, the crew sharing $353.42 for nine weeks' fishing. The same year sch. Mary Carlisle, Capt. William Thompson, stocked $4,738.75 on one trip, the crew sharing $236.25. In 1879 sch. Thresher stocked $4,464.82 on one trip. Sch. Sarah P. Ayer stocked $4,251 on a trip in 1869. In 1868 sch. Aphrodite, Capt. Randall McDonald, stocked $4,246.37, and the previous year the same vessel stocked $4,126 on one trip; sch. William T. Merchant, Capt. Nelson McKenney stocked $4,200 on a twenty-six days' trip in 1868. Sch. C. B. Mafining^ Capt. Charles H. Nute, stocked $4,033 on a halibut trip in 1869. In 1880 the best stock was made by sch. IVillie M. Stevens, her catch of 81,000 lbs- selling for $3,870; time about three weeks. The best stock in 1881 was made by the Grace L. Fears, 75,000 lbs., $3,553, crew sharing $121.79. On one trip in 1876 sch. Epcs Tarr was absent three weeks, and took in four days' fishing 54,500 lbs. white and 24,442lbs. gray halibut, whic s )ld for $3,165, the crew sharing $120. The best season's stock in this fishery was made by sch. Gertie E. Foster^ Capt. Edward Morris, in 1875. In eleven montlis she landed 668,517 lbs. halibut and 19,220 lbs. codfish, stocking $26,071.56. The next best stock was that of sch. Willie M. Stevens, Capt. John Mclnnis, in 1880; from Dec. 24, 1879, to Dec. 15, 1880, her gross stock was $22,107.35, ''^"^^ '^^'' "''^^ stock $20,959.06, the crew sharing $706.06. The best season's stock in this fishery in 1881 was made by Capt. Nathaniel Greenleaf in sch. Grace L. Fears, $20,385 net. Sch. Racer, Capt. Walter M. Fait, stocked $22,000 in 1866 ; Capt. William Thompson was high line of the crew, making $1,300. In 187 1 Capt. Thompson made nine trips in sch. Mary Carlisle, stocking $17,275.53, Iier crew sharing $858.62. In 1869, '70, '71, Capt. Thompson stocked $46,871. In 1873, '74, '75, Capt. Edward Morris stocked $64,769.78. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 31 GEORGE'S FARES. The largest codfish fare ever received from Georges was 123,115 lbs., round, with 862 lbs. halibut, by sch. .S. R. Lane, Capt. Solomon Jacobs, in 1875 ; ^'^^ Lane stocked $2,554 on this trip, her crew sharing $go.8i, and the cook making $156.62. In 188 1 the sch. Triton, Capt. Edward Groves, weighed off from one George's trip 54,000 split codfish, 30,000 lbs. round do., (equal to about 111,000 lbs. round), and 3,000 lbs. halibut.* In 1S75 sch. Carl Sckurz, Capt. Neil S. McPhee, landed a Georges fare of 107,200 lbs. codfish and 3,800 lbs. halibut, stocking $2,580 ; crew shared $105.04 cook made $143.95. Sch. Everett Steele, Capt. Joseph Goslin, weighed off 102,075 ^t)S. on one trip in 1869. In 1868 sch. William J. Dale, Capt. David A. Osier, landed a fare of 100,575 lbs. On a fourteen days' trip in 1867 sch. Montana took 100,162 lbs., and in two successive trips that year landed 183,362 lbs., making a gross stock of $3,417.32. In 1866 the Mad- atne Roland hd.d ^. i-^xe of 99,338 lbs. In 1877 the Riverdale took 93,378 lbs., and the William J. Dale 91,500 lbs., each on one trip; the Hattie S. Clark, Capt. Hiltz, took 172,500 lbs. on two trips in three weeks. In 1879 the Sarah P. Ayer had a trip of 60,000 lbs. split codfish. The best fare in 1880 was 66,000 lbs. split codfish and 1,500 lbs. halibut, in sch. Hyperion, and the next best fare 65,000 lbs. split codfish and 2,000 lbs. halibut in sch. David M. Hilton. On five Georges trips in the Spring and Summer of 1881, sch. Procter Brothers took 21,544 codfish in number, weighing 171,000 lbs. Of her crew of eleven men Mr. George Williamson was high line taking 2,417 fish, while the low line caught 1,431. The best stock on a single Georges trip was $2,833.29, by sch. Madame Roland, Capt. James Lunderkin, in 1865 ; in two trips that year she stocked $5,050.75. Sch. Everett Steele, Capt. Cash, stocked $2,824.55 i" 1865, $2,760.69 in 1869, and $2,738.95 in 1866, on single trips. In 1865 sch. Laughi?ig Water, Capt. Joseph Goslin, on eleven Georges trips stocked $14,843.84, and afterwards going to the Bay of St. Lawrence for mackerel stocked $3,110.46, making her season's stock $17,954.30; the high line made $1,105.37, and her cook $1,402.93. GREENLAND TRIPS. The largest fare of fletched halibut ever landed at this port was 179,571; lbs., by sch. Bunker Hill, Capt. John McDonald, from a Greenland voyage in 1 88 1, stocking $9,000. The same year sch. Herinan Babson, Capt. Charles J. Lawson, took 178,000 lbs. fletched halibut, and a quantity of other fish, on the coast of Greenland, stocking $11,734.60 on a four months' trip; the *In 1879 the Triton had a trip of 69.012 Ib^. split codfish and 1.100 lbs. halibut. 32 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. crew shared $400.71 each, and the skipper's share and commission amounted to §872.07. In 1870 sch. Caleb Eaton, Capt. John S. Mc()uinn, landed 177,300 lbs. fletched halibut, and a quantity of salmon and fins, from a four months' Greenland trip, stocking about $20,000. HIGH PRICES FOR HALIBUT. In the Fall of 1865 Capt. L. A. Story, now of Magnolia, caught from a dory while engaged in hand-line fishing in Boston Bay, a halibut weighing 194 lbs., which was sold to Messrs. Parsons & Co. of Commercial Wharf, Bos- ton, at 28 cents per pound, making the total price $54.32. The largest price ever received for a fare lot was 21 cts. per lb. for white and 14 cts. for gray, for g,ooo lbs. brought in by sch. T. L. Mayo. In January, 18S1, halibut sold at 16 and 12 cts. per lb. for white and gray. QUICK BANK AND GEORGES TRIPS. Sch. Cunard, Capt. Garrett Galvin, made a salt trip to the Banks in 7^ weeks in 1878; sch. Carrie P. Morton, Capt. Charles A. Keene, in 2^ months in 1873 ; %Q\^.Ben: Perley Poore, Capt. Charles H. Nute, in 14 weeks in 1872 ; sch. Reunion, Capt. Belcher Torrey, a fletched halibut trip to the Banks in 12 weeks in 1868. In 1877 sch. Augusta H. Johnson, Capt. George A. Johnson, made a fresh halibut trip to Western Bank in 13 days, and the same year sch. Edward Grover made three such trips inside of 14 days each and another in 16 days. In 1881 sch. Grace L. Fears, Capt. Nathaniel Greenleaf, made a Grand Bank trip for halibut in 14 days, 6 hours, securing 40,000 lbs. halibut, the crew sharing $91.50. The same year sch. G. P. Whitman, Capt. Jerome McDonald, made a Grand Bank trip in 16 days, taking 61,580 lbs. halibut ; on four trips that year the Whitman averaged 4 weeks each, the crew averaging $80 each per trip. The Nathaniel Webster also made a Bank halibut trip in 16 days in 188 1 ; the David A. Story, Capt. Joseph Ryan, one in 18 days, stocking $3,021, crew sharing $103.62 ; sch. H. A. Duncan, in 17 days, took 80,000 lbs. codfish. Sch. Franklin Snow, Capt. McDonald, stocked $2,385.47 on an 18 days' trip to Western Bank in 1868, and sch. Aphrodite, Capt. McDonald, stocked $4,126 on a 20 days' trip in 1867, the crew sharing $171.51. In i88o %c\\. Alice M. Williams, Capt. Dennis C. Murphy, made a Banquereau trip in 16 days, returning with 38,000 lbs. halibut. Sch. Willie Seavy, Capt. Robert White, of Newcastle, N. H., with a crew of eight men, sailed on a Western 15ank trip April 16, 188 1, and arrived at Portland May 18, with a fare of 450 qtls. prime codfish, the result of 21 days' fishing. In 1867 sch. Ilattie S. Clark, Capt. Ililtz, took 90,000 lbs. codfish in a week's trip to Georges, and made two trips inside of 21 days, landing 172,500 lbs. cod. In November, 18S1, sch. Alice M. Gould, FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 33 of Portland, made a La Have Bank trip in 5 days, securing 45,000 lbs. fish, which sold for $1,200, the crew sharing $80 each, or $15 per day.* Long Trip. — Sch. Comtnouwealth arrived home from a Bank halibut trip in April, 18S1, having been absent 7^2 weeks. She was 16 days on the passage home. SHORE FISHING. The largest haddock fare ever caught by a Gloucester vessel was landed at Boston in February, 1880, by sch. Martha C, Capt. Charles Martin. She weighed off 72,000 lbs., which sold at $2.50 per 100 lbs., stocking $1,803, the result of two days' fishing on a seven days' trip. The expenses of the trip were $137, and the crew of fourteen men shared $86 each. In 1881 the same vessel and skipper had a very successful season ; on a January trip she landed 70,000 lbs. fish, about two-thirds haddock and one-third cod; on a February trip to La Have Bank she took 63,000 lbs, haddock and 20,250 lbs, codfish, stocking $1,742.50, the crew sharing $84.38; in March she stocked $1,784 on one trip, the crew sharing $94; in April she struck a good school of fish on the western edge of Western Bank, and in two days' fishing took 80,000 lbs. codfish and 12,000 lbs. haddock, the largest "shore" fa'-e yet reported by a Gloucester vessel. Up to the first of May, 1881, the Martha C. landed about 550,000 fresh fish, stocking more than $11,000, the largest stock for the time employed ever made in the shore fishery. The largest haddock fare ever landed at Gloucester was 70,380 lbs,, taken on Georges in 1878 by sch. E. L. Kowe, Capt. Sewall VV. Smith, on a five days' trip. The largest haddock fare ever taken in one day's fishing was 51,700 lbs., with 2,500 lbs. codfish, taken in 1877 by sch. Paul Rei'ere, Capt, John Bentley, who stocked $10,036.83 from Oct. 6, 1876, to May 11, 1877. On one trip to Georges in 1877 sch. Cora E. Smith, Capt, Sewall Smith, took 52,679 lbs. haddock ; in three trips she landed 124,375 "^s. ; during February and March she landed 203,095 lbs., and stocked $4,500. In 1881 sch. Edith M. Pe7v, Capt. William Corliss, landed 60,000 lbs. haddock on one trip ; in two trips, occupying three weeks, the crew shared $100 each, Sch, David J. Ada??is, Capt, Richard Murphy, stocked $2,117 ^"^ ^ ^G" days' trip, the crew sharing $107, In three weeks sch, Charles S. Tappan, Capt. John Bentley, stocked $3,200. Sch. Aberdeen landed 50,000 lbs., sch. Anable 50,000 lbs., and sch. Paul Revere 40,000, each on one trip. In 1879 ^ch. Alice M. Hawkes, of Swampscott, took 49,000 lbs. codfish in one day, and sch. George A. Upton took 40,000 lbs. on one trip. For the year ending *Iii November, 1881, sch, Emma S. Osier made two poUockiug ti-ips inside of 5 days, landing 53,000 lbs. pollock. 34 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Feb. 4, 1881, sch. Mystic, Capt. John McKennon, stocked $19,770 shore trawling, the crew sharing $785.12 each. In five months in 1872-3 sch. Eastern Queen, Capt. WiUiam CorHss, stocked $10,250 net in the haddock fishery, her crew sharing $560. The same season sch. Jennie B. Thomas, Capt. Henry Thomas, stocked $8,000 in five and a half months. In 1870-1, sch. Angie S. Friend, Capt. McClain, stocked $7,700 in five months, and sch. Aland Mailer, Capt. Nathaniel Smith, $6,600 in four months. Sch. George H. Hagnet, 32 tons, of Harpswell, Me., stocked $5,500 in five months' shore fishing in 1881. MACKEREL FARES. Sch. Edward E. Webster, Capt. Solomon Jacobs, stocked $24,146 in the Summer and Fall of 188 1 in the mackerel fishery. In the Summer and Fall of 1880 Capt. Jacobs in the Webster, disposed of 1,300 bbls. mackerel fresh, and 2,600 bbls.' pickled, stocking $19,745.76 gross. The same season sch. Alice, of Swan's Island, Me., took 3,700 bbls., of which 900 bbls. were disposed of fresh, stocking $19,548.75. The season of 1881 was a very favorable one for the mackerel catchers. Sch, Lizzie D. Saunders, Capt. Alfred Saunders, of Pigeon Cove, stocked $1,700 in two weeks, the crew sharing $73 ; sch. Ivanhoe made eleven trips for fresh mackerel in seventeen days, being two or three days in port ; sch. Wildfire, Capt. George M. McClain, took 1,309 sea-packed barrels in six weeks; sch. Northern Eagle, Capt. George H. Martin, stocked $1,852.50 in five days ; sch. Isaac Rich, of Swan's Island, Me., took 2,000 bbls. up to the middle of July ; sch. EVank Butler, of New London, Conn., caught 762 bbls. in three weeks; sch. David A. Osier 160 bbls. in forty-seven hours ; sch. Col. J. H. French 500 bbls. in eight days, and sch. Piscataqna 400 bbls. in four days ; sch. Dreadnaught, of Portland, Me., 205 bbls. in twenty-one hours- sch. Fleetwing 210 bbls. at one haul; sch. Madaicasha Maid 225 bbls. in one day, and 1,000 bbls. in five weeks; sch. William M. Gaffncy 900 bbls. in twenty-one days ; sch. Alice, of Swan's Island, Me., 4,804 bbls. to Oct. 21. Sch. Wildfire stocked $3,200 in two weeks. From April 20 to July 26 sch. S. R. Lane landed 2,400 bbls. ; for the twenty months ending Aug. I, 1881, this vessel stocked $25,000 fishing. In October, 1876, sch. Mary Odell, Capt, McLain, made one haul in Barnstable Bay of more than the crew could take care of; she took 300 bbls., gave away no and lost several hundred through a hole in the seine. The Mary Odell had a crew of 12 men, and up to Sept. 22 stocked $11,000, the crew sharing $436.96; the next week she landed two good fares, and the week following two more, at Boston. In 1877 sch. _/ames A. Stetson took at one haul, ofT Block Island, 140 bbls. large fat mackerel, which sold at $20 per bbl, ; Sch, Moses Adams, FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 35 Capt. Solomon Jacobs, stocked over $2,400 in three short trips in one week, in October, 1878; in 1876 sch. Herbert M. Rogers, Capt. Richard Warren, took at one haul, off Block Island, 165 bbls. fat mackerel, which sold at $25 per bbl., stocking $4,125 ; sch. Gen. Grant, Capt. Coas, stocked $11,254.94 net on two Bay trips in 1864; sch. Nor" Wester, Capt. Daniel Hillier, stocked $9,721.74 on one Bay trip in 1864. In three months of the same year sch. Gen. Sher?nan, Capt. George W. Miner, took 612 bbls., and stocked $9,696 ; sch. John Bright, Capt. Aaron Riggs, took 639^ bbls., and stocked $10,711.21 gross ($9,518.34 net), on one Bay trip in 1866; the high, line made $288.73, low line $106.06, cook $382.78 ; she went through Canso after Aug. i, and packed out Nov. 15. The earliest receipt of new mackerel was in 188 1, when the sch. Edward E. Webster, Capt. Solomon Jacobs, sailed from Gloucester March 15, and arrived at New York March 23, with 140 bbls., which sold for $3,000. In 1878 10 bbls. were taken by sch. Lilian, of Noank, Conn., and landed at Lewes April 5, selling in New York at 20, 15 and 10 cents each. First fare, 150 bbls., sch. J. J. Clark, Capt. Charles Lee, at New York April 13. The first receipts in 1880 were April 4; in 1879, April 14; in 1876, April 24; in 1877, April 25 ; in 1875, April 30. DORY FARES. In the Winter of 1877-8, Leander Godditt of Pigeon Cove took 2,200 lbs. codfish in one day ; John E. Woodbury and his son Elbridge, of Folly Cove, took 3,900 lbs.; Albion Knowlton and Howard Parsons, 3,850 lbs.; Warren and Howard Poland, 3,800 lbs.; J. W. Marchant and B. F. Saunders, 3,300 lbs.; John Woodbury and C. Sammis, 3 200 lbs. The same Winter a Mr. Taber of Nantucket launched his dory, pulled two miles to the fishing grounds, took 2,114 pounds of codfish, and pulled ashore, all on one tide, not exceeding three hours. Feb. 26, 1880, Mr. George Woodbury of Folly Cove had three tubs of trawls set, comprising 1,500 hooks. He hauled his trawls and got for his hard day's work five pounds of fish. The next day Mr. Ezra L. Woodbury overhauled six tubs of trawls and did not get a fish. 36 'FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. The Old-Time Fishery at 'Squam. BY GIDEON L. DAVIS. Tradition of the Early Settlement — 27ie Vessels Used and Voyages Pursued — An Interview with ^^ Uncle Ben,'' Who Tells What lie Knows about the Old- Time Fishery — '■'• Uncle Joe's" Narrative — ^^ Uncle 'Bijah's" First Trip — Various Kinds of Craft Used in the Fisheries — A Grand Bank Trip in 1816 or 18 1 7 — Largest Fishing Fare Ever Landed on Cape Ann. The business of fishing at 'Squam must have commenced with its settle- ment, for the not-over-productive soil could have afforded but a scanty livelihood, and the early settlers were doubtless attracted by the products of the sea, which were plentiful and easily obtained. Tradition, documen- tary evidence and landmarks tend to prove that the fisheries commenced here at a very early period, and flourished for many years. The places which tradition asserts were once the sites of fishing establishments, hardly a trace of which remains, and the fishing stands of a later period, with their wharves and warehouses crumbling to decay, mark two eras of prosperity in the fishing business that have long since passed away. Could we go back in imagination to that earlier era ; could we bridge over the lapse of years that have intervened ; and tell how the fishermen lived — how they captured their fish — describe their clumsy and ill-contrived crafts — recount the dangers and difficulties they encountered — we might compile a chapter full of interest for the "Fishermen's Own Book." Of the ancient fishing establishments, which seem to have flourished at an early day, we can hazard but a few conjectures. All record of them, if there ever was any such record, has been lost. Our knowledge of them is there- fore merely traditional. The "ketches" and "sloops" spoken of in history as the first vessels employed in the Cape Ann fisheries were doubtless used by them. Of the latter class of fishing craft we learn from history that in 1724 several were employed in the Bank fisher)-, and that one of them, the Squirrel, belonging to 'Squam river, was captured by a pirate ; that the crew subsequently rose against their captors, killed some, threw others over- board, retook the sloop and brought her back into the river. The hanging of the bodies of two of the pirates upon "Hangman's Island" may be taken as evidence that the Squirrel belonged to the fishing establishment at "Done Fudging," about which there has been so much conjecture, since the island was but a short distance from it. It is now covered by the East- ern Railroad bridge, which spans the river at this point. I remember seeing FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 37 it when a boy, a small low island, partly washed away by the tide, with a few stunted trees growing upon it. As the captured pirates were tried and executed elsewhere, it is probable that the island took its name from the suspension of the dead bodies of Burroughs and Phillips, who were killed in the recapture of the sloop, upon a mock gallows thereon. Why the early fishermen should have sought such out-of-the-way places — always far up some river or creek — in preference to Gloucester harbor, whose convenience of access and adaptability to the business has given birth to a thriving and growing city, is left to conjecture. It may be that in those troublous times they selected them as being more remote from the sea, and affording greater safety from the depredations of piratical craft, which were then quite numerous, and also from the cruisers of the govern- ments with which the mother country was then at war. The location of their dwelling houses — of which forty desolate cellars remain, whose story none can tell — far removed from the shore, and always in some secluded spot, corroborates this view, as does also the tradition that they hauled their fish up on Dogtown Common to cure. About 1630 a party of men, led by a son of Rev. John Robinson of Puri- tan fame, seeking a place suitable for a fishing station, landed at Annisquam, and were so well pleased with its harbor and other conveniences that they concluded to set up a fishing stage there, and send for their families. This was the first permanent settlement of Cape Ann. The abandoned cellars were theirs, and the ruined wharves which tradition asserts were once the sites of important fishing establishments, doubtless belonged to and were used by them and their immediate descendants. What sort of crafts they used, what voyages they made, what success they met with, cannot now be learned. It is probable that the "ketch," a small open boat with two masts and sails, answered every requirement for a long period, since doubtless fish were plentiful and near at hand. Probably no craft of considerable size fitted from these establishments until a much later period. In 1724, nearly a hundred years after the settlement, we find mention of a vessel of larger proportions, the Squirrel, before alluded to. She must have been a good-sized craft, carrying quite a crew, and bound on a distant voyage, as it is said that the men took their tools along with them to complete her on the outward passage, she being a new vessel. At a later date the old Bankers and Pinkeys were undoubtedly fitted from these estab- lishments. Wishing to obtain some information in regard to the ancient fishing site at Mill Creek, concerning which there has been so much curiosity and conjecture, and of which a ruined wharf is all that now remains, we sought out " Uncle Ben," who lives near the place, as the one most likely to be able to impart the information we desired "Uncle Ben" is a hale old 38 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. veteran of the sea. We found him open-hearted and free, as we knew him of old, and carrying his eighty and odd years remarkably well. " Do I know anything about the old fishing establishment just below here on Riggs' Point? Well, I ought to, seeing that I went from there when a boy. Capt. Samuel Riggs carried it on then. I do not know who carried it on before him. Somebody must have done so, for he did not build the wharf or the warehouses ; he built only the drying houses that stood further up the hill. They were all pulled down about forty years ago. He owned three vessels, standing-room pinkeys of about twenty-five tons burthen, one called \\\^John, another the Mary Ami, and the third the Sally. "I was a small boy when I commenced to go. We used to start about the first of May and go down on Tantor, Southeastern Jeffries, Cashes, and sometimes to Wood Island, and would be gone about a week. Fish were plenty enough, and we could catch just as many as we wanted. " I do not remember anything about the old Banking fleet ; that was before I can remember. I have heard say that they used to have them up to Done Fudging:. Cod and haddock were all the fish we used to market. Halibut were plenty enough. They would come up alongside and swim with their fins out of water, but we never thought of catching them. Sometimes, though not often, we would catch one and smoke it — for our own eating — in the pinkey's chimney, which made a nice smoke-house. When they got too plenty we would haul up and seek another 'berth.' They used to bother us, as I have heard my father say the pollock used to bother them when he went. They did not know what a pollock was in his day, and used to think it a bad haul when they got one on the hook. At one time he used to go coasting in what would now be thought a small craft, but what they consid- ered a monster, an old-fashioned standing-room pinkey of forty-two tons, with timber heads coming up along her sides six or eight inches, around which a plank was bent to serv^e as bulwarks — then called a waist. She had fore-and-aft standing rooms, a fore-cuddy with a brick chimney and fireplace, carried fore-and-aft sails, and was without shrouds or bowsprit. She had hemp, or what was then called Raven's duck, sails — cotton duck was then unknown — and carried a scout horn* to wet them down when the wind was moderate. They used to coast along shore, carrying corn and lumber, and once went as far south as Charleston. "Aaron Hodgkins had a pinkey of twenty tons, called the Willow. He went in her himself, going from here. Aaron and Vincent Wheeler, broth- ers, had a square-stern boat whose name I do not remember. They went from Wheeler's Point. Over in Goose Cove, above the mill dam, where *As hemp siiils wen- iiuroiis, and lirul not tlie wind-holding properties of cotton (luck, tlio ''.sc.nit horn," a pole about liftrcn feel in li-n'^h with a IcatliiT pocki-t holdini; about a pint of water to throw on tho sails and close them up, was an indispensable instrument. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 39 you can see the remains of an old wharf, Josh. Riggs went in an old pinkey called the Blaney. It is about sixty years since she last left the cove. She went out under her foresail, with a fresh sou'west wind. Uncle Josh., leaning over the mainboom, said, * Looks dreadful squally, don't it ? Guess we had better go back.' Back they went, and there she laid her bones, that being the last cruise of the Blaiieyy All this and much more interesting information "Uncle Ben" imparted freely, but we shall omit the rest, as there are other veterans of the fishing grounds to be heard from. We were desirous of learning something concerning the old Bankers, that are said to have sailed from these ancient fishing establishments, and felt that we should be most likely to obtain the information we desired by inter- viewing " Uncle Joe." What we gathered from this source will now be given, not as he told it, for that would take a more graphic pen than ours. But we will "puss" it up together, as the fishermen do the schools of mackerel. "I remember, when a boy, four score years ago, of hearing Capt. William Babson, then an old man, tell about the old Bankers. Capt. Babson, Capt. Gee and Joseph Baker, sometimes called Master Baker, were among the fitters. Capt. Babson's place of business was at Babson's Point. Master Baker's was at Baker's Point, now known as Pleasant Point, and the house in which he resided is the one now occupied by Prof. Hyatt as a Summer residence. The old warehouse, which used to stand so conspicuously on the Point, was owned and used by him. Capt. Gee's place of business was at Gee's Point, now known as Wheeler's Point. His wharf may yet be seen, so far decayed as to be covered at half tide, I think. There were fourteen sail in all. I cannot remember now, even if I ever knew, the names of any other fitters ; but as there were fourteen vessels, and as it was not usual for one establishment to fit more than one or two Bankers, there were probably other places where they fitted out, and the old sites at Done Fudging, Mill Creek and other places where ruined wharves remain, prob- ably had their share. "The Revolution put a stop to the business. Some of the vessels were captured and burned, and others sold or otherwise disposed of, as a Bank fishing voyage was deemed hazardous. "The vessels were for the most part built upon the Merrimac river. They had never heard of a chronometer in those days, and not many of them carried a quadrant. They used to depend on the compass, soundings, and personal judgment. It is probable that as a rule the skippers were ac- quainted only with the most simple and practical rules of navigation, yet they were very successful on their voyages. It is related of Capt. Babson, that, having secured the services of Capt. David Sargent as skipper, in 40 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. order to badger him he sent some one down while he was getting underway for a fishing voyage, to ask him if he had got his quadrant on board. 'Tell Cap'n Babs'n,' was the reply, 'that I kin find ye way to ye Banks widout a quadrant as weel as he kin wid one.' "I wish I could tell you something more definite about the old-time fish- eries, but even were I able to do so it might be questioned, since I could only speak from hearsay. "The pinkey fleet, however, were quite numerous in my day. At one time there were more than one hundred on this side of the Cape, including Rockport, then Sandy Bay ; Lanesville, then Lane's Cove ; Bay View, then Hodgkins' Cove ; and 'Squam, where about twenty-five were owned and, fitted. Those belonging to the first-named places would come around to 'Squam when the weather was bad or threatening, those from Rockport going into Goose Cove as affording a near route to their homes, and those from Lanesville and Bay View into Lobster Cove for the same reason. There were no breakwaters at those places then, and in good weather the pinkeys were moored to a mooring-stump* — a spar with one end driven into a hole made for the purpose in a large fiat rock of several tons weight, sunken at a sufficient distance from the shore to allow the pinkeys to swing clear of the rocks. Some of them still remain, and are objects of curiosity. "They were the old style pinkey, without bowsprit or shrouds, with two masts and hempen sails, and were from twelve to twenty-five tons burthen, and carried a crew of three men. They were built at Chebacco, now Essex, at first, but were afterwards also built at 'Squam. Capt. Epes Davis built the first one there, about the year 1800, on the Chebacco model. He hired a man from Essex to help him, but for some reason he went away when the pinkey was half completed, and Capt. Davis finished her himself, with the aid of his wife, who held the plank and timbers while he fastened them on. This pinkey was twenty tons burthen, and named the Dromo. Capt. Davis went to Brown's Bank in her and brought in sixty quintals of split fish. She had the usual features of the pinkey, two open standing rooms, one forward and one aft, to fish in, with hatches to cover them over, and was without shrouds or bowsprit. Capt. Davis continued the building of vessels, and in all built more than one hundred. In 1823 he built the first square stern vessel ever built at 'Squam. Her name was the C/irysanthemutn, of sixty-three tons, and she was first sent on a southern mackereling voyage. Others engaged in the business, and it flourished for many years. At one time I have seen ten vessels on the stocks, and sixty sail were owned and fitted here. "They are all gone, skippers, boats and crews. I can remember the *.\ full (Irscriiition of tlu-so niooriii;,' stiiinp-; in <^\\cn in tlie '' Fishermen's Memorial aud Ucuord JJook." FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 41 names of many of them. At the Folly, Walter Woodbury went in the Rcpiib- lican, Epes Woodbury in the Bonaparte, Epes Woodbury, Jr., in the Sea Flower, Caleb Merchant in the Hope, Joel Griffin in the Lion, Nat. Lane in the Sea Foam, John Clovis in the John, and Asa Woodbury in the Essex, At Lane's Cove were the Liberty, Winthrop Sargent ; Heron, John Lane ; Lily, Reuben Patch ; Jefferson, Moses Lane ; and William, Andrew and John Langsford owned and went in pinkeys. The last-named was lost overboard in 1826, in coming from Jeffries, and the crew carried the boat into 'the harbor.' "There are many others whom I remember — Andrew Bailey, Robert Stevens, William Young, Epes Lane, Joe Lane, David Lane, Fellows Mor- gan, Harry Sargent, etc., who owned and fished in pinkeys. At 'Squam I remember the Martha, David Chard ; Corporal Trim, John Duley ; Dove, Joseph Davis ; and many others that I could recall. I remember a trip that Daniel A. Robinson made to Western Bank in April, 18 17, in a pinkey of forty or fifty tons named the: Constitution. She was owned and fitted by Epes Davis." Thanking "Uncle Joe" for his information, we next proceeded to hunt up "Capt. 'Bijah." We found him smoking in a snug corner by a sea-coal fire, and he gave us, between whiffs, the following account of his first trip : " I was ten years old when I made my first fishing trip. We went to Cashes in a deck boat of twenty tons. Capt. Daniel Robinson was skip- per and I was cook. There were six of us, all told. We went at the halves, and all shared alike, the privilege of cooking and the glory of being skip- per being considered in those days ample compensation for any extra labor or responsibility. We took about forty barrels of mackerel, saving only the large bloaters, which we slat into the barrels ; the smaller fish we slat into the lee scuppers and stamped them up with our boots for bait with which to toll the fish. Afterwards we chopped bait with a hatchet, until Gunni- son, of Newburyport, invented the bait mill, a godsend to the fishermen, who could now smoke and spin yarns while on watch, instead of chopping bait. A story is told, on the best of authority, of one skipper, Andrew Burnham, who had been a great 'killer' in his time, that after the bait mill came into use he was unable to sleep without the sound of the hatchet chopping bait, to which he had been so long accustomed. It is said that they tried pounding on the anchor stock, and tramping with their big boots on the deck above his head, but all to no avail. There was an element lacking in the noise they made, and he wooed the somnolent god to no ef- fect, and was obliged to retire to private life on a farm, in the ' Second Par- ish,' I believe. "We cooked in the old-fashioned way, in a brick fire place with a brick chimney, and a wooden smoke stack or funnel which was intended to carry 42 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. off the smoke, but did not always do so. The crane, pot-hook, Dutch oven and trencher were all there, and all brought into use, as I well remember. We baked short cakes on the trencher, bread in the Dutch oven, and hung our kettle on the crane, with the pot-hook, to make coffee or tea. "We had fine weather, and everj'thing passed off finely except the smoke, which refused to pass off at all, and under a less resolute commander than skipper Robinson would doubtless have assumed command altogether. No casualties occurred except the burning of a few short cakes, while 'Bijah (it being his first voyage) paid tribute to father Neptune, and was himself again. We were gone three days. Arriving on the fishing grounds we made but one 'berth,' catching and dressing until everything was full, when we hoisted the foresail, for jib we had none, and bore away for 'Squam, arrived in the channel, dropped anchor, furled the sails, and went home to see the folks." According to the records the first vessels employed in the Gloucester fisheries were the "ketch" and the "sloop." The ketches were smaller than the sloops, and were doubtless employed in the shore fishery, while the sloops were used for voyages to a greater distance. The ketch was but a miserable shallop, with two masts, one far in the stern and the other far forward in the bows, to obtain all the room possible between. They were little better adapted to the calling than the sloop, which any sailor knows is a poor rig for a fishing trip. At a later day we find the pinkey and the old Banker brought into general use. But the pinkey was only an improve- ment in some respects upon the ketch, having the same dangerous rig of two unsupported masts, and it is a wonder how they could have performed some of the voyages with which they are credited. Some of the pinkeys were as large as the ordinary fishing schooner, with spars in proportion. With the pinkey to monopolize the shore fishery came the old Banker to take the place of the sloop, a clumsy craft at the best, slow and unwieldly, with short masts, full bow, and high quarter deck, not unlike the vessel in which Columbus discovered the new world, though somewhat improved upon, no doubt. These had their day and generation, and by gradual de- velopment, adopting here and there what experience showed to be an improvement, gave to the fisheries and to ocean navigation a new craft, with a new name and characteristics peculiarly its own, the beautifully modelled, swift and graceful "schooner." With the exception of some disguise in the names of the narrators, the foregoing account of the early fisheries at 'Squam may be regarded as essen- tially correct, being citlier matters of history or statements of persons now living. In conclusion we present a brief account of a trip to Grand Bank in 1816 or 1817, resulting in the largest fare of fish ever landed on Cape Ann. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 43 This trip was made from Gloucester in the sch. Mary Elizabeth, one of the old-time Bankers, commanded by Capt. George Davis, of Annisquam. The Alary Elizabeth was owned by Robert Elwell of Gloucester, and was a new topsail schooner of one hundred and thirteen tons, built upon the Merrimac river just above the Haverhill bridge. She carried a crew of twelve men, in addition to the skipper, as follows : Benjamin Marble, Joseph Jones, James Sawyer, all of Fresh Water Cove ; Samuel Davis of Ferry Lane ; John Wharff, Enoch Center, of Fox Hill ; Samuel Wharff, William Bennett, Ben- jamin Curtis, near Dodge's Mill, Riverdale ; William Marsh, Robert and George Davis of Annisquam, the two latter sons of the skipper, Robert be- ing the cook, and George, now living at Annisquam in the eighty-sixth year of his age, being our informant in regard to the incidents of the trip. They started about the first of April and were gone ninety days. They fished with hand lines, on board the vessel, and caught seventeen thousand codfish in number. Having arrived on the Bank they made everything as snug as possible, taking down the topsail and topgallant yards and lashing them across the stern. Halibut were very numerous, and they could have soon loaded with them had they desired. They caught a great many of them, but only saved the fins and napes, which they salted in barrels, and fletched and smoked quite a lot of the best pieces overhead in the cabin. One day they caught a very large one, with a haddock in his mouth, the only haddock they saw during the trip. They had very good weather, met with no disaster, and arrived safely in Gloucester, and landed their fare at Fresh Water Cove, making 2,500 quintals dry fish, the crew realizing as their share $24 for each thousand fish caught. Our informant states that the water stood upon her lower deck when she left the Bank, but naturally, from the shrinkao-e of the fish and the pumping off of the pickle, she was considerable lighter when she reached port. Her outfits were principally ship-bread, beans, rice, a little flour, some beef and pork, molasses, tea and coffee, and some rum. Fish and beans and beef, with ship-bread, were the principal articles of diet, but on Sunday morning they would have fried pancakes — about half a bushel being required to go the rounds — as a sort of holiday treat, as they invariably refrained from fishing on Sunday. The Mary Elizabeth had the high quarter-deck peculiar to the Bankers, divided below into three com- partments, the forward part used for the storage of fishing gear, etc., the middle compartment as a pantry and kitchen, in which they cooked and ate, and the after part called the steerage, where they lived and slept. 44 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Homeward Bound. BY JAMES DAVIS. O heave up the anchor, the waist it lies low With the wei<;ht of our good finny freight in the hold; The wind from the east is begiiuuug to blow, Now heave up the anchor, my live lions bold; ily eyes they are aching for sight of the land. My heart it is sighing for sweet home once more ; Now lieave O, my hearties, and landward we'll stand, To meet the dear friends who are waiting on shore. Chorus. O heave up the anchor, my good fishers bold. And homeward we'll steer with our freight good as gold; Blow, breezes, and waft us the wide waters o'er, For dear ones are waiting for us on the shore. Out on the dark waters, for four weeks and more, "We've trawled and we've hauled, boys, day in and day out; Now dear ones are watching for us on the shore, And fears for our safety are whispered about; So heave up the anchor and set every sail. Blow, breezes, and speed us the wide waters o'er, Blow steady and strong till the home-port we hail, And gladden the hearts that are waiting on shore. — Chorus. O, Love will sail out, and Love will sail in, For beneath our rough jackets our hearts they beat warm, And bread and delights for our dear ones to win. We watch, and we work, and we battle the storm; But liappy tlie day when the skipper doth say, " Come, heave up the anchor, men, full is our store," And o'er the wide waters we speed on our way. To meet the dear friends who an; waiting on shore. — Chorus. And so we will sail, boys, blow high or l)low low, Sail landward or seaward, as duty may call. With a hi'art for hard fortunes, for never we know, Bound outward or inward, what luck may befall ; And we sail and wc; ride out on Georges' far bank. While the winds and the waters they rage and they roar, And between us and death there is only a plank, For the sake of the dear ones we've left on the shore. — Chorus. There's danger on land, and there's danger at sea, But there's hope at all partings of meeting again, For Love is around us wherever we he, And One then? goes with us who knows we are men; So we sail and we ride out upon the rough tide, Expecting that when our last sea voyage is o'er, We'll moor our okl barks, boys, in port sitie by side. And greet our dear friends on the heavenly shore. — Chorus, FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 45 Products of the Gloucester Fisheries. The following estimates of the fish productions of Gloucester at different periods during the past thirty-five years will give a good idea of the growth and changes in the business : Statement of fish products in 1847, collected by Mr. Addison Winter and furnished the "History of Gloucester," not including the results of the Win- ter dory fishing: 7,088,376 lbs. codfish, valued at $181,703 ; 3,379,776 lbs. halibut, $70,761 ; 735,506 lbs. hake, $12,174 ; 919,188 lbs. pollock, $16,556 ; 46,779 bbls. mackerel, $290,055 ; 337/4 bbls. tongues and sounds, $1873 ; 39,520 gals, oil, $16,232. Total value, $589,354. Number of vessels employed, 287, of which 126 were of less than forty tons burthen. Total tonnage, 12,354; number of men employed, 16S1 ; boys, 186. Fish products for 1859, exclusive of the herring, shell and shore fisheries : 59,664^ bbls. mackerel, valued at $705,833 ; 114,047 qtls. codfish, $416,271 ; 4,500,000 lbs. halibut, $135,000 ; 1,400 bbls. oil, $19,600. Total value, $1,276,704. The other fish products probably brought the value to nearly one and a half million dollars. Number of vessels, 322 ; tonnage, 23,882 ; number of men employed, 3,434 ; boys, 34. i865^from State Census — value of mackerel catch, 154,938 bbls., $2,190,- 562 ; codfish, etc., 113,025 qtls., $706,426; oil, $90,420; fresh fish, $360,- 000 ; tongues and sounds, 3,000 bbls., $25,000 ; herring, $200,000 ; bait, 1,400 bbls., $75,000 ; lobsters, $3,450. Total value, $3,650, 852. Number of vessels, 353 ; tonnage, 25,170 ; number of men, 4,700. Capital invested, $1,901,700 ; value of salt consumed, $232,275. Products for 1873 — Custom House estimate — 86,544 bbls. mackerel, of a value of $1,125,000 ; 460,000 qtls. codfish, $2,070,000 ; 5,000 bbls. herring, $23,000; 25,000 qtls. other fish, $50,000; 9,000,000 lbs. fresh fish, $310,- 000; 275,000 gals, oil, $165,000; shell fish, $13,000; 7,000 tons fish ma- nure, $25,000 ; miscellaneous, $15,000. Total value, $3,801,000, against $3'437»ooo in 1872. Products of 1875, carefully prepared from actual returns obtained by George H. Procter: 177,473 qtls. Bank codfish, of a value of $998,628; 185,758 qtls. Georges do., $1,021,669; 2,462,364 lbs. Georges halibut, $172,365; 7,248,413 lbs. Bank do., $507,389; 4,257 qtls. hake, $12,774; 2,349 qtls. cusk, $7,047 ; 9,417 qtls. pollock, $32,964; 38,292 bbls. herring, $153,168 ; shore fish, fresh, $89,738, cured, $135,697, oil, $8,945 ; 18,172^ bbls. No. I mackerel, $327,112, 7,065^^ bbls. No. 2, $184,780, 21,763 bbls. No. 3, $174,104, 4,039^ bbls. No. 4, $24,105 ; 3,175 bbls. herring, $13,494; 163 bbls. pickled codfish and 4.o}( bbls. swordfish, $1,097 ; 410^ bbls. trout and 75^ bbls. fins and napes, $4,042; 21^ bbls. salmon and 205 bbls. 46 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. tongues and sounds, $2,282 ; shell fish, $10,000; other fish, $8,000; fish oil other than shore, $100,000. Total value, $3,909,500. In 1867 there were 220 Gloucester vessels engaged in the Bay St. Law- rence mackerel fishery, and only 50 off shore. Products since 1875, excluding hake, pollock, cusk, shell fish and oil : 1876 — Georges codfish, 26,975,000 lbs.; Bank do., 18,627,000 lbs. ; Bank halibut, 11,453,000 lbs.; Georges do., 3,005,100 lbs.; mackerel, 95,422 bbls.; herring, 35.800 bbls. 1877 — Georges codfish, 23,755,000 lbs.; Bank do., 16,865,000 lbs.; Bank halibut, 14,319,000 lbs.; Georges do., 1,814.000 lbs.; fietched do., 850,000 lbs. ; Greenland do., 100,000 lbs.; mackerel, 49,044 bbls.; herring, 28,500 bbls. 86 Gloucester vessels fished for mackerel in the Bay St. Lawrence this year. 1878 — Georges codfish, 24,158,000 lbs.; Bank do., 12,202,500 lbs.; Bank halibut, 10,914,500 lbs.; Georges do., 524,100 lbs.; Greenland do., fletched, 120,000 lbs.; mackerel, 55,742 bbls.; herring, 27,000 bbls. This was the year when the herring fleet was driven away from the shores of Newfound- land. 125 fares, about 30,000 bbls., sea-packed mackerel, were received from the Bay St. Lawrence. 1879 — Georges codfish, 23,144,000 lbs.; Bank do., 13,247,000 lbs.; shore do., 3,742,000 lbs.; Bank halibut, 11,717,400 lbs.; Georges do., 995,500 lbs.; Greenland do., fletched, 500,000 lbs.; mackerel, 48,643 bbls.; herring, 20,000 bbls. 429 vessels were employed, of which 338 hailed from Glouc- ester ; 104 followed Georges all the season, and 82 the Bank cod and hali- but fisheries. 25 vessels made Bay St. Lawrence trips for mackerel. 1880 — Georges codfish, 27,511,000 lbs.; Bank do., 20,247,000 lbs.; shore do., 1,721,000 lbs.; Bank halibut, 7,940,000 lbs.; Georges do., 1,125.450 lbs.; Greenland do., fletched 80,000 lbs.; mackerel, 1165793 bbls.; herring, 30,000 bbls. The fleet numbered 441 vessels, of which 334 were owned in Glouc- ester. 107 followed the Georges fishery exclusively, and 90 confined their operations to the Bank cod and halibut fisheries, and 17 made Bay St. Lawrence trips, bringing some 3,505 bbls. mackerel. 1881 — Georges codfish, 22,510,000 lbs.; Bank do., 20,955,280 lbs.; shore do., 3,245,360 lbs.; Bank halibut, 7,178,800 lbs.; Georges do., 1,087,400 lbs.; fletched do., 25,000 lbs.; Greenland do., fletched, 428,290 lbs.; mackerel, 163,- 851 bbls.; frozen herring, 13,318,000. The fleet numbered 437 vessels, of which 343 were owned in Gloucester. 62 followed the Georges fishery ex clusively, 26 Western Bank fishery, 10 Grand Bank codfishery, 25 Bank hal- ibuting, and 29 shore and Bay of Fundy codfishery. Only 2 vessels visited the Bay St. Lawrence for mackerel, and their catch was less than 50 bbls. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 47 Eeturn of the Dories. BY CELLIS. The above picture shows the return of some of the shore fishermen from a trip ofT shore, where they have seined a goodly quantity of pogies or mack- erel, which they are now about to unload from their dories and take care of. The baskets have been filled all ready to be conveyed to the store- house. The children are enjoying the sight and are probably asking all the questions which their little brains can conjecture. The vast expanse of water, with the numerous sea birds, add life and beauty to the scene, which is in decided contrast to that presented when the storm-clouds lower and old ocean is lashed into fury. The lighthouse, whose cheerful beams by night guide the mariner on his course over the pathless deep, stands as a faithful sentinel, and the little cottage near by with the smoke rising from its chimney, is suggestive of peace and contentment. Taken as a whole the picture is a cheerful one, and shows the bright side of the fishermen's life. 48 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Quick Passages, ^c\\. John D. Gri^d/i, Capt. Gould, left Chatham on Wednesday, Oct. 31, 1877, for New York, discharged cargo and was back the following Monday with 6,200 bushels of corn, bound to Danversport. Sch. Anson Siimson, Capt. Sloman, made the passage from Sandy Hook to Matanzas in 18 days, in 1877. Sch. Tim Pickering, of Salem, made the voyage from New York to Salem and back in 9 days, in 1877, 5 days of the time being spent in Salem and Gloucester. Bark Charles Stciuart made the passage from Trapani to this port in 43 days, in 1878, being 2)2) days from Gibralter. Sch. Hcnnin Babson made the passage from Canso to Gottenberg in a few hours over 16 days, in 1876. Sch. Centennial, Capt. Philip Johnson, made the passage from Gloucester to Port Mulgrave, a distance of 4S8 miles, in 1880 in 45 hours. The same year sch. Henry Wilson, Capt. James O. Nauss, made the run from Cape Jack to Georgetown, P. E. I., a distance of 40 miles, in 4 hours, and sch. David A. Story, Capt. Joseph Ryan, made the passage from Gloucester to Grand Menan, a distance of 225 miles, in 18 hours. In i86o ship Golden Gate made the pasage from Liverpool, Eng., to San Francisco, in 102 days ; in 1 880-1, ship British General made the same passage in 105 days, being 15 days from the equator into port. In 188 1 sch. Alice, of Swan's Island, made the run from Boston to Eastport in 27 hours, and sch. William H. Jordan, of Taunton, made the passage from Baltimore to Providence in 56 hours. Steamer Adtniral, from New York to Boston, made a run of 9 miles in 27 minutes, and a passage from Glouces- ter to Boston in i hour, 50 minutes. In November, 1881, sch. Lit/u Am- nurmann, of Perth .Vmboy, N. J., Capt. John L. Stiles, made the passage FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 49 from Boston to Philadelphia in three clays. Sch. Lizzie W. Mat/teson, Capt. McKay, of Provincetown, in October, i8Si, made the passage from Boston to Cape Haytien in 8 days, discharged cargo, loaded and returned to Bos- ton, making the round trip inside of 32 days, said to be the quickest time on record. ^c\\. JenJiie A. Stiibbs, Capt. Stubbs, made the run from Sandy Hook to Turk's Island, in 1881, in 145 hours, actual time. Sch. Lottie K. Friend, Capt William H. Collins, sailed from New York on Saturday even- ing, April 30, 1880, at (yVi o'clock, and arrived at Gloucester at 2 o'clock the following Monday morning, making the passage in 3i)'< hours; the pre- vious Winter the Lottie K. Friend made the passage from Phillips' wharf, Salem, to New York, in 31 hours. In the Summer of 18S0 several of the Gloucester fishing vessels had an opportunity for a race with crack Boston yachts, under favorable circum- stances: July 27, sch. A/ice M. Williams, Capt. Dennis C. Murphy, fell in with the yacht Actae off Cape Sable; the yacht put on all her light sails, and Capt. Murphy spread his riding sail and all the dory sails he could raise, and kept company with the yacht until he reached Eastern Point, when he came into port, the Actae proceeding to Boston. Aug. 5, sch. Isaac A. Chapman, Capt. Chas. R. Crew, fell in with the yacht Taroiinta; both craft spread every inch of canvas, and in an hour and a half beating to windward the yacht was left fully one-half mile to leeward. In September the sch. Mary Odell, Capt. McClain, out-sailed one of the crack Boston yachts, and parties who witnessed the race were so well pleased with her sailing quali- ties that they made an offer for the Odell on the spot, and she was sold to go to Savannah as a pilot boat. SONG OF THE WINTER FISHERMAN. BY R. CALDKR. Up ! up witli your sails to the bending mast, Sheet them home witli a hearty will ; Let the rude caress of the wintry blast Evei'y fold of the canvas till. Now sail away o'er the treacherous main. Where the storm-king builds his throne, "Where the finny treasures of his domain We will gather and call our own. Wliere the towering iceberg's crystal dome Is lost in the drifting snow. And the waves dash up their milky foam From the gloomy depths below. Away where the bright Aurora's beams Flash over the starry sky, Lighting the sea with its golden gleams, Where the daring fishers lie. Oh, kings and rulers the land may own— We envy not the great ; The ocean free is our regal throne. The " deck" is our Chair of State. Oh, here we are free on the ocean's breast As the deer on his native heath; And wlien the storm is over we rest On the billows— or underneath. What matter to us, when the spirit's fled, Where the body finds a tomb — In the cliurch-yard with our kindred dead, Or 'neath the ocean's foam? Here's a noble craft to meet the blast Where'er fate bids us roam, And hearts to greet, when danger's past. Our loving ones at home. 50 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. First Trips. The first codfishing trips to Georges were made in 1S21, and the fijst cod- fishin^ trips to the Bay St. Lawrence the same year. The Georges haUbut fishery was inaugurated in 1830. The first salt herring trip to Newfoundland was made in 1S37 or 1838 by Capt. James W. Pattillo, in the pinkey Tiger. The Newfoundland fresh herrino- fishery was inaugurated in 1854 by sch. Flying Cloud, Capt. Henry O. Smith. The first frozen herring marketed in New York was in 1857, by sch. E. C. Smith, Capt. Sylvanus Smith. The first cargo of herring ever shipped from Gloucester to a foreign port were sent to Gottenberg in sch. Niilli Secundiis, in 1876. The first Greenland halibut trip was made in 1866, by sch. John Atwood, of Provincetown, chartered by Messrs. John F. Wonson & Co., Dodd, Tarr & Co., and Mr. George J. Marsh. She sailed June 29, commanded by Capt. G. P. Pomeroy of New London, Conn., with Capt. Averill L. York of this city as fishing master, and arrived home Oct. 14, selling her fletched halibut at 9 cts. per pound, and stocking $5,500. Sch. Caleb S. Eaton, Capt. John S. McQuin, made a Greenland trip in 1869 and again in 1870. The first and only fishing trip to Iceland from this port was made by Capt. John S. McQuin, in sch. Membrino Chief, in 1873. Sch. Notice, Capt. Knud Markuson, made a mackerel-seining trip on the coast of Norway, in 1878. The importation of fish 10 the West Indies was revived by Capt. Charles A. Romans in 1878. Mackerel catching was first pursued by small boats about 1800. The mode of catching by drifting and "throwing bait" did not become general until after 1812. The jig hook was invented by Mr. Abraham Lurvey of Pio-eon Cove, in 1816. Fly lines did not come into use until about 1823, Bait mills were not used until 1820, when they were made of nails driven in strai"-ht lines across wooden cylinders and then sharpened. The first bait mill with knives was made by Mr. Gorham Burnham in 1822, and the knives were first placed in spiral form in 1823. The first trip for mackerel to cure was made by sch. President, Capt. Simeon Burnham, in 18 18. Mackerel were first caught on Georges in 1822, by Capt. William Marshall. The first mackereling trip from Gloucester to the Bay St. Lawrence was made by Capt. Charles P. Wood in ■~,q\\. Mariner, '\\\ 1830. ^c\\. Eliza Jane, {Z^.^^X.. Stephen Brown, made a Bay mackereling trip the same season, and two of the crew who made the trip, Messrs. John Ilodgkins and John N. Day of Riverdale, are still living. Sch. Clio, of East Salisbury, is said to have FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 51 made a similar trip in 1829. The first trawl was made and set across Brace's Cove in 1820, by Mr. John Rowe, still living at East Gloucester at the age of 75 years. The Fishery Clauses of the Washington Treaty went into effect July i, 1873 ; notice of a desire to terminate their provision may be given by either side after July i, 1883, and they will continue in force two years after such notice is given. Large Fish. A halibut weighing upwards of 600 lbs. is said to have been taken at New Ledge, 60 miles southeast of Portland, Me., in 1807. Twenty years later a dead halibut was picked up by two men near Damask Cove, at Boothbay, Me., that weighed when gutted and gilled, with head on, 637 lbs. This is the largest halibut of which we have any record. Dr. Storer mentions one taken off the South Shore three-quarters of a century ago, which weighed 420 lbs., dressed ; or probably 500 lbs. live weight. The largest halibut ever landed at Gloucester was brought in from Georges by sch. Etta E. Tanner, in 188 1, turning the scales at 380 lbs. ; it was purchased by Messrs. Stockbridge & Co., and attracted considerable attention. The same year sch. Charles Carroll took a Georges halibut weighing 358 lbs. ; in 187 1 sch. John Dove took one weighing 347 lbs., and seven halibut taken on the trip turned the scales at 1,732 lbs. The largest Bank halibut of which we have any knowledge weighed 377 lbs., and was taken by sch. Wachusett in 1880. In 1877 sch. City of Gloucester took a Bank halibut weighing 336 lbs., and sch. William Thompson one weighing 296 lbs. The largest shore halibut on record was taken on Poole's Ledge, about six miles east- southeast of Thacher's Island, about 1873, by J. B. Goldsmith and Peter Leman, two Rockport fishermen ; it was as wide as the stern place of the dory, weighed when dressed 347 lbs., and sold for $21.60. In 1877 Mr. Elbridge Gerry took off Eastern Point a halibut weighing 320 lbs. The 52 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. smallest halibut of which we have heard was brought in by a Gloucester vessel in 1880, and sent by mail to Mr. E. G. Blackford, the fish culturist, of New York ; its weight was 20 ounces. The Portsmouth fishermen have a tradition of a monster codfish caught by Samuel Haley, of Smutty Nose Island, Isles of Shoals, which weighed when dressed and dried 113 lbs. In 1878 Capt. George H. Martin of Gloucester took oflf Cape Cod a codfish weighing 1 1 1 lbs. dressed, and the next year captured one in Ipswich Bay which measured 5 feet 2 inches in length and weighed 90 lbs. when landed, and probably 100 lbs. when taken from the water. In 1879 two codfish were received in the Portsmouth market each of which weighed 108 lbs. Storer speaks of a codfish taken in the Spring of 1807 at New Ledge, 60 miles southeast of Portland, Me., which weighed 107 lbs. The New York "Journal'* of April 3, 1793, reports a codfish "lately sold in the Newburyport market," which was 5^ feet in length and weighed 98 lbs. One of 97 lbs. was caught off Portsmouth in 1827, and one of 94 lbs., "undressed," by the Swampscott fishermen in 1857. In February, 1823, the Marblehead fishermen sent to John Q. Adams, Secre- tary of State, frozen with great care and packed in ice, a codfish weighing 84 lbs. In 1881 the sch. Morrill Boy, Capt. Russell Gill, took on one trip net fishing 319 codfish, weighing 9,570 lbs., or averaging 30 lbs. each. A lobster 38 inches in length and weighing 15 lbs. was taken at New Bedford in the Fall of 1881 ; a few months earlier a lobster weighing 13 lbs. was taken at Liverpool, N. S., and sold for 25 cents. A horse mackerel weighing 545 lbs. was landed at Portland, Me., in the Summer of 1881. A bass weighing 79 lbs. was taken near Portsmouth, N. H., in August, 1881 ; it was two hours from the time it was hooked before it was landed, in a fourteen foot boat, which was half full of water before the fish was secured. A 445 lb. turtle was taken in the weirs at Orleans, Mass., in August, 188 1. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. IZ Gloucester Harbor, 1830. Above is given a view of the harbor taken from off the beach at the Cut in 1830, which will be readily recognized by many who peruse these pages. The old windmill which then occupied a position where the Pavilion Hotel now stands, was for many years an important landmark in entering the harbor. It was erected in 1814 by Mr. Ignatius Webber, a successful ship- master, who retired from seafaring pursuits in 1807, and for three years subsequently was connected with Messrs. Aaron and Henry Plumer in car- rying on the ropewalk on Western avenue, which was built by Capt. Webber and Aaron Plumer in 1803. The ropewalk was sold at auction about 1810 to Mr, John Somes, Jr., for $4,550. The windmill was removed to Com- mercial street, near the Fort, when the Pavilion was erected, and was so badly injured by fire July 5th, 1877, that it was sold and removed. The ropewalk is plainly discernible in the foreground, and many a fine run, when a lad, have we had barefooted over its smooth floor. There are many no- ticeable changes in that vicinity, especially on the hill, which now shows some very handsome dwelling houses. 54 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. U. S. Fish Commission. SUMMER HEADQUARTERS IN GLOUCESTER. The Summer of 1878 was memorable for the selection of this city as the Summer headquarters of the U. S. Fish Commission. The scientific corps comprising the Commission arrived here July 9, Prof. Baird and his clerical force taking up their residence at the Kirby cottages on Western avenue, and a large building on Fort Wharf was leased for an office, laboratory, etc. The laboratory work was under the the special charge of Prof. Goode of the Commission and Prof. Verrill of Yale College, with Dr. Bean and Messrs. Richard Rathburn and Warren Upham as assistants. On the i8th of July the steamer Speedwell, under command of Captain Beardslee, arrived, and from that time until Sept. 30, with a brief interruption for repairs on the steamer, dredging expeditions were made off the coast, Capt. H. C. Ches- ter, formerly of the Polaris, having charge of the dredging machinery. With the departure of the Speedwell, at the end of September, the regular Summer work of the Commission was practically completed. Aside from the investigations pursued by the scientists, and the valuable collections secured on the dredging expeditions, the visit of the Fish Com- mission to Gloucester served to create an interest in its field of operations among the Gloucester fishermen, from which great benefit has been derived. Several of the larger fishing vessels were provided with tanks and alcohol for the preservation of such novel specimens as might be brought up on their lines and trawls, and a lively emulation was manifested in forwarding the interests of the Commission. This branch of the work was continued after the departure of Prof. Baird and his corps, the numerous contributions being weekly announced in the columns of the local papers until the middle of November, 1880, when the number of separate contributions had reached 924, including many thousands of specimens, of which a very large number were either new to science, very rare, or hitherto unheard of in American waters. During the season a series of investigations was made by Dr. W. G. Far- low, as to the cause of the reddening of codfish cured in Summer, which renders it liable to decomposition and unfit for the market. After a full inquiry Dr. Farlow came to the conclusion that the trouble was occasioned by a minute red alga, specimens of which were found in the Cadiz salt used for curing fish, and in accordance with his recommendation a more general use has since been made of Trapani salt, which was found to be free from this alga. Through the efforts of Prof. Baird, Gloucester was made a storm signal FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 55 station, during the Summer of 1878, and the warning signals have proved of great advantage to mariners. On the 25lh of July the Tallapoosa visited Gloucester, having on board the Secretary of the Navy, Hon. R. W. Thompson, the Chief Naval Con- structor, Chief Engineer, Paymaster General, and other naval officers. The steamer remained in port two days, the visitors making a dredging trip on the Speedwell. One of the most valuable results at the Gloucester station was the dem- onstration of the fact that codfish, haddock, herring, and other deep sea fish could be artificially propagated as readily as shad, whitefish, and other deni- zens of our rivers and lakes. Assistant Commissioner Miiner, Capt. Ches- ter and Messrs. Frank N. Clark and Robert E. Hall had charge of the cod-hatching experiments, which were entered upon after the departure of their associates. Various devices were tried, until the proper conditions were realized, and several millions of codfish were hatched out and turned into the harbor, where they could be readily observed around the wharves the following Summer, having made a good growth. It was also found that herring, haddock, and pollock could be artificially multiplied at will. The results of the experiments were all that could have been expected, and much valuable information was secured that will be of great advantage if the work is ever attempted on a large scale. The fish-hatching establishment was broken up in the early part of Janu- ary, 1879, but the Commission retained its laboratory for the reception and preparation of specimens brought in by Gloucester fishing vessels until the Summer of 1881. Mr. Earle remained in charge of the work in 1879, ^"^ was succeeded by Mr. A. Howard Clark in 1880. Since the laboratory was closed in 1881, Capt. Stephen J. Martin has been the local representative of the Commission, keeping a record of fishing arrivals and securing other information necessary to the prosecution of its work. Around Cape Ann. In 1606, we have seen, our harbor was named Le Beau Port, and sin- cerely. Harbors differ as men do. Harbors are human and something like women ; they have their own times for dainty and delicate attire. To know them, you must study them, under daylight, under twilight ; at sunrise and sunset ; under the full harvest moon ; at low tide and high tide ; in a storm and after it is over ; then will you find some mood to admire, new beauty come to sight. Our harbor, like every other, sulks sometimes, one must allow. A dog-day's fog has hung over it, or wrung itself dry into it, to-day. S6 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Open as the highway to all farers, many kinds of craft share its favor. The deeply laden collier with its sober mien ; the lumber-coaster with her deck- load suggesting the heart of pine forests in Maine ; the stranger ship with salt from Spain ; the sloop or schooner yacht with every grace a marvel and every line a picture, — those lilies of the sea, which toil not, neither do they spin ; the tug-boat eying every sail for a summons ; the fisherman with her seine-boat ready for action, idle after toil ; the ferry-boat going her way so often as to have it by heart ; the light, clumsy wood-coaster from the prov- inces, sturdily maintaining her look of indifference to the finer company around her ; a single skiff shooting among the dories and boats ; all point- ing different ways \ some with sails partly set, expectant ; some with minds made up, their anchors resolutely down, and all either grieving or sulking over the uncertain weather. One hint of farewell from the setting sun, and what a change! The somber collier and coaster look careless and happy, and the yachts share the gold that falls upon them with every homely sister, till twilight creeps and creeps up every mast, like a miser, for every glint of it. The woods along the western shore grow like a deepening mystery. The tide is down, and the weed-hung rocks seem darkly to desire the night. One gleam is in the western sky, the light of which little pools of tide among the rocks sue for and obtain, by some bridge unseen. To see the summer day come into the harbor, one must rise early. The early evening most men know ; but the early morning — what is it ? How many of us know it ? How many love it ? One star is skipper and crew of the whole heavens, and, weary with its watch, "turns in," not curious to see what the day is like. The wind is sleeping. A boat here and there puts off to some vessel. " Schooner ahoy ! " says a voice from the shore, and she ahoys. Sail and hull and rope and block are duplicated in the tide below. That was a yawn of the awaking wind. Notes of preparation deepen. Sail after sail is swayed up. Anchors break their hold ; then comes the quickened clink, clink, of the windlass ; the jib is hoisted, and the southwest wind, no longer napping, fills it and a hundred other sails that make their way out of the harbor in the morning sunlight, to and fro. The first schooner-rigged craft that ever swam, it is claimed, was built by Andrew Robinson, in 1713, and named the Schooner. It was a handy craft for rig, but, even down to fifty years ago, a clumsy body. Cape Ann vessels are mostly built at Essex, a few miles from Gloucester ; up a river or crooked creek, the builders construct and launch their faithful work for all sorts of weather to try. So they were building thirty years ago, when one, more venturesome, suddenly departed from the models of the day, sharpening the bow and hollowing the run. What talk among the fishermen! Who would go in her? What a of a rake! What a sheer! She was manned, FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 57 though ; became successful, and very soon others were on the stocks modeled after the Romp, the pet of the fleet. Six sloops, one boat and one shallop composed the Cape Ann fleet in 1693 ; now it has nearly five hundred sail, of almost twenty-eight thousand tons, and Gloucester is the largest fishing port in the land. Its fleet is manned by men of every clime. A tide of young men, mainly from the Provinces, sets steadily toward this port. Many have the characteristic recklessness of the sailor, and earnings of weeks are spent between sunset and sunrise. There is among them no sailor cut of clothes, and ashore they follow the prevailing fashions down to lager beer. All haunts are prepared for Jack, and he is prepared for all haunts. As in all other callings thrift follows prudence and industry, though he seems to lie open to the changes and chances of luck. You will see his cottage commanding the finest sea view, for on the heights lie the cheapest lots. Alas! that the waiting wife can look harborward on every coming sail, often to see the flag "half-mast" — for whom ? Here are no labor strikes. The sailor brings in a fare of fish, perhaps all he has caught, by themselves ; they are weighed off, the vessel is put to rights, and he goes up to the counting-room for his check. The whole value of the fish is reckoned by the vessel-owner or his clerk ; then is deducted cost of ice and bait bought ; then one-quarter of one per cent, for the Wid- ows' and Orphans' Fund ; one-half the remainder belongs to the owner, the other to him. From his part is then deducted charges for wood-sawing and splitting, for water, medicine-chest, condensed milk, and any charge for la- bor on the vessel which belonged to him to do, but which has been hired done. His check is then handed him, and he presents it in person, or it finds its devious way to the bank by other — perhaps not cleaner — hands. One of the most exciting scenes imaginable is that of a fleet of hundreds making the port in a storm. In a northeast gale they must beat in. All day long, by twos and threes, they come. It is luff, bear away, or tack ship to avoid a smash. Crack, snap, goes a jib-boom off. Crack, snap, there is one main-boom the less. Hoarse voices of the skippers howl in entreaty or command above the howling gale, and the shore is lined with listening look ers-on . — ' * Century Magazine. ' ' 58 FISHERMEJSrS OWN BOOK. Schooner Sultana Towed by a Whale. On the 1 6th of December, 1874, while schooner Sultana, Capt. Peterson, of this port, was at anchor on Grand Bank, there was a sudden motion felt by those on board the vessel, and it was evident that the craft was being carried through the water by some unseen and unknown motive power. Looking forward, it was observed that the cable was drawn taut, and that some "monster of the deep" was attached thereto, and drawing the vessel along at the rate of twelve knots an hour. Soon they obtained positive evidence, as a mammoth whale came to the surface to blow, having the an- chor of the vessel either hooked into his jaw or blow-hole. There was also another whale which swam near, evidently greatly astonished at the predic- ament of his companion. The men on board of the dories, which had just returned from visiting their trawls, had barely time to make fast their painter ere the vessel started. Another dory, with two men, was at some distance, also visiting their trawls. The captain stood ready with axe in hand, in case of emergency, and allowed the whale to tow them some distance j but not wishing to lose sight of the men in the dory, was obliged to cut the ca- ble— otherwise he might have succeeded in capturing the whale. Whether or not his whaleship succeeded in getting rid of the anchor and tow-line is not known, as no account has yet come to hand of his being fallen in with. It was rather a novel method of being towed. We have heard of but one similar instance among the fishing fleet — that of sch. C. If. Price being towed by a whale a day and a half, some nine years ago, while on Grand Bank, when the fluke of the anchor broke and she was released. The above spirited picture gives a good idea of the Sultana in tow. It was drawn by Rory McDonald, steward of the vessel. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 59 Loss of the Schooner Henrietta Greenleaf. Eour Men Drowned in their Berths — The Remaifider of the Crezu Take to their Dories — Adrift in an Open Dory, with Scanty Clothing, amid Sleet and Cold, without Oars, for Forty-Five Hoicrs — The Dories Part Compa?iy — One Rescued by Sch. Lizzie K. Clark — The Other Never Heard From. The new sch, Henrietta Greenleaf \cit Gloucester Thursday, April 6, 1876, for a Grand Bank trip; and this was her first and last trip. She was com- manded by Capt. William H. Greenleaf, who was also part owner, and from him we obtained the following particulars : On Friday night was to the southward of La Have Bank, and had fine weather with a six knot south-southwest breeze. The watch on deck were George Olsen and Philip McCloud, and the remainder of the men were be- low, asleep. Shortly before three o'clock the watch called all hands to handle sail, and all turned out. Capt. Greenleaf was the first one on deck, and when he took the wheel the vessel was masts down in the water. The squall was the most terrific he ever experienced, and came so suddenly that there was no escape from it. All hands were ordered to the weather side, and the rigging was at once cut away in order to let the masts break off, and thus ease the vessel ; but of no avail, and it was evident that she was fast sinking, and if they would save their lives they must get out of her as soon as possible. There was no time even to secure oars, water or food, and all the men, except the watch, had only their pants, shirts and stockings on. Thus illy provided, they proceeded to launch the dories, when it was found that four of the crew were missing, and these had been drowned in their berths, having been unable to reach the deck on account of the deluge of water which had overtaken them in their attempt. The names of these un- fortunate men were Franklin Greenleaf, brother of the master, 25 years of age; Alfred Short, a native of Olsenburg, Norway, who had followed fishing from this port several years; James Peters, of Prospect, N. S.; George Connors, brother-in-law of Capt. Greenleaf, 15 years of age. The loss of these men threw a gloom over the remainder of the crew; but there was no time for repining; they must work quickly, and at about half- past three they left the vessel, with the wind blowing hard and a rough sea running. The dories kept company all day Saturday, and the winds were variable, with snow squalls and cold, biting sleet, which made their situation extremely uncomfortable, and they suffered greatly. They were frequently wet with the water shipped by the dories, and it required constant effort 6o FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. with a bucket, fortunately on board, to keep them free. Having no oars, they tore the raiUngs off the dories, and were also fortunate enough to pick up the vessel's wheel-box, which they made paddles of, and by dint of al- most superhuman exertions, were enabled to keep their frail crafts afloat. At eight o'clock, Saturday evening, the dories parted company, being unable to keep together any longer. The wind was then blowing strong from north-northwest, and continued until Sunday noon, when it moderated grad- ually until evening. At five in the afternoon. Freeman Crawford, one of the men, succumbed to the terrible fatigue and died, and his companions felt that if not soon rescued, they too must soon follow him. He was a native of Westport, Maine, 25 years of age. Shortly after midnight, through the dim hazy light, they saw a sail draw- ing near. They succeeded in attracting attention, and the vessel proved the Lizzie K. Clark, Capt. Thomas Hodgdon, of this port. It was but the work of a few moments for the captain and his crew to respond to the cries of distress, which were borne upon their ears in the midnight, and imagine their surprise when they learned that the sufferers were their own acquaint- ances. With kindly care they lifted their poor suffering shipmates on board the vessel and did everything possible for men to do for their comfort. The Clark laid to until daylight, in hopes to pick up the other dory, but was un- successful, and Capt. Hodgdon cruised all day Monday, leaving no efforts untried in order to save his brother fishermen ; but all to no avail, and the condition of the rescued men being such as to require medical skill, he sailed for Halifax, where he arrived on Tuesday. Here the men were the recipi- ents of every attention ; money, clothing and kind words were freely offered, and the American Consul, Judge Jackson, was indefatigable in his efforts to benefit them. Capt. Bennett of the steamer Chase offered them a free pass to Portland, and was unremitting in his attentions. Capt. Merrill of the Boston & Maine Railroad also passed them over his road to Boston, and all whom they met showed none but kindly feelings. The body of Crawford was taken on shore and buried. The names of the men rescued were Capt. Greenleaf, Lawrence Hardi- man, Philip McCloud, George Olsen and Charles Cook. Those in the other dory, which was never heard from, were Joseph Gardner, Liverpool, N. S., 29 years of age ; George Rowe, East Gloucester, 28 years ; Bernard Jewett, Westport, 27 years; Charles Pattie, Westport, and John S. Tobbie of Nor- way, 28 years. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 6i Gill-Net Godfishing in Ipswich Bay. The Winter of 1880-8 1 will be memorable in local fishing annals as wit- nessing the first successful attempt at net-fishing for cod in our waters, a method that promises to make as marked a change in the shore fishery as was wrought by the introduction of trawl fishing a few years previously. This method of fishing has long been followed by the Newfoundland fisher- men, and it is said that the Norwegians take half the number and two-thirds the weight of their immense catch of codfish in this manner. Impressed with the importance of the saving made in the cost of bait, and of time consumed in procuring bait, Prof. Baird decided in the Summer of 1878, when the Summer quarters of the Fish Commission were located in Gloucester, to experiment as to the practicability of introducing the Norwe- gian methods in our waters. Accordingly, he procured a set of Norwegian gill nets, which attracted considerable attention at the laboratory of the Commission at Fort Wharf, from their novel construction and curious glass floats. When the Winter school of codfish set in, in the Fall of 1878, exper- iments were made with these nets on the "Old Man's Pasture," but it was found that the nets were too frail for the large cod which frequent our coast in Winter, and for the strong current and rocky bottom along our shores. The result of the experiment, however, was such as to indicate that net- fishing might be made practicable, with properly constructed nets, and Prof. Baird continued his investigation of the method, and on the occasion of the International Fisheries Exhibit at Berlin in the Spring of 1880 dele- gated Capt Joseph W. Collins of Gloucester to make a careful study of the European methods of deep sea fishing, the result of which has been pub- lished by the Government for the information of the American fishermen. Meanwhile the Norwegian seines remained at the Gloucester headquarters of the Fish Commission, with the understanding that they were at the ser- vice of any responsible master who desired to experiment with them. In the Fall of 1880 the scarcity of bait interfered with the successful pros- ecution of the shore fishery, and at the suggestion of Capt. Stephen J. Mar- tin, an attache of the Commission, his son, Capt. George H. Martin, decided to make a trial of net fishing in the schooner Northeni Eagle of Gloucester. Securing the nets belonging to the Commission, and procuring others of improved construction, the Northern Eagle made a thorough trial of this method of fishing for shore cod in Ipswich Bay in the Winter of 1880-81, with such success that before the season closed quite a number of the shore fleet provided themselves with similar outfits. The Northern Eagle was supplied with tliree dories, each requiring three nets, which were set at night 62 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. and hauled the next morning. The experiment proved a success from the start. For the first three nights the catch was 4,000, 6,000 and 7,000 lbs. respectively, although the weather was unfavorable and the trawl fishermen were securing only about half the amount taken by the Northern Eagle. In eight days' fishing this schooner took 40,000 lbs. of large fish, and on one trip, ending Jan. 11, 1881, she took a fare of 35,000 lbs., of which 8,000 lbs. were taken in one morning. Two trawlers, absent the same length of time, took 4,000 and 8,000 lbs. respectively. The next trip she was absent four days and took 35,000 lbs., of which over one-half were caught in a sin- gle day.* From Nov. 27, 1880, to Jan. 20, 1881, Capt. Martin took 110,000 lbs. cod, none of the trawlers exceeding one-third of that amount in the same time. Later in the season three netters arrived at Portsmouth in one day, one with 28,000 lbs. and the others with 10,000 lbs. each of large cod- fish, while the trawlers had much smaller fares. Another day sch. Defiance took with her nets 12,000 lbs. steak codfish, and was high line of a fleet of twenty-seven vessels, one with twenty trawls out securing only fourteen fish, another 800 lbs., and a number of others not exceeding 2,000 lbs. each. The nets used by the Ipswich Bay fishermen are made of strong Scotch flax twine, twelve-thread, and are of nine-inch mesh (414 inches square). Those used by Capt. Martin were 50 fathoms long and 3 fathoms deep, while other vessels, later in the season, used nets 100 fathoms long and 2 fathoms deep. The floats were of glass, fifty of them being attached to a fifty-fathom net. Bricks were used as sinkers, one being attached to the foot of the net directly beneath each of the floats. These fifty-fathom nets cost about $18 each, and a fourteen-pound trawl-anchor was attached to each end of a gang of three nets. They were mostly set in the northern part of the Bay, but a few miles from shore, where the current was not strong, one man in a dory being able to set or "underrun" three nets, fastened together at the top and bottom. The advantages of this method are found in the larger size of the fish taken, the saving in the cost of bait, the saving of the labor required to bait trawls, etc. Capt. Collins is of the opinion that this method may be profita- bly employed on the Grand and Western Banks and Banquereau, especially on the shoaler parts of these grounds, where the nets could be easily "under- run." This would obviate the necessity of leaving the Bank before a fare had been secured, as is frequently done, to procure a fresh supply of bait. We present four plates illustrating the methods of gill-net codfishing: Plate V shows the Norwegian method of setting the nets at the bottom of the sea, i being the nets, 2 the rocks used for mooring, 3 the buoy, 4 the buoy-line, 5 glass floats attached to the buoy line to keep the slack from ♦On this day 9c-h. Christie Campbell ot Portsmoiitli sot ten trawls of 1,000 hooks each close to the nets, and caught about 2,000 lbs. of tish to the 1S,000 ll)s. taken in tiie nets. PLATE V. PLATE XI. rljr\.lll. ^Vll. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 63 sinking when there is no current, and 6 the watch-floats, to show the posi- tion of the buoy when it is drawn under the water by the tide. Plate VI shows the manner in which the nets are set at different depths to ascertain where the fish may be found, i being the nets, 2 the foot-lines holding the nets to the bottom, 3 the stone moorings, 4 the buoy-line, and 5 the buoy. Plate XI shows the way in which the gill-nets were set for underrunnino- in Ipswich Bay. i is the end of a gang of nets, 2 the anchor or underrun- ning line, 3 the anchor, 4 the buoy-line, 5 the buoy. In plate XII the fishermen may be seen in their dories underrunning the nets. By this process one man can secure the catch of a gang of nets, for which work an entire boat's crew of six or eight men is required in the Nor- wegian fishery. Under favorable circumstances one man can set a gang of nets by letting the boat drift with the wind or tide and throwing them over as it moves along, but as a general rule two men can accomplish this much better. When setting for underrunning the anchor is first thrown over and 25 fathoms of line paid out, when the buoy-line is bent to it. The buoy and line are then thrown over, with the remainder of the anchor line, the end of the latter being made fast to the nets, which are the next to follow. A mid- dle buoy is attached to the center of the gang. When the nets are all out the other anchor-line, with the buoy-line attached, is paid out, and last of all the anchor is thrown over. In underruning, the fisherman goes to one of the buoys on the end of his gang of nets, takes it in his dory, and throws it out on the other side, hauls in the buoy-line, allowing it to run out on the other side, and when the anchor or underrunning line is reached, takes it across the dory and hauls along towards the nets. These are underrun by pulling them in one side of the dory, as seen in plate XII, removing the fish, and allowing the nets to pass over the other side into the water, the anchors, which are not disturbed, holding them in position until the work is accomplished. 64 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. A Day at the Beach. The spirited illustration on tlie opposite page tells its own story, and the scene is an extremely pleasant one to gaze upon. Many who will peruse the "Fishermen's Own Book" will readily call to mind such a festive occa- sion, in which they were among the happy participants, either at Coffin's Beach, Good Harbor Beach, Half Moon, or Niles'. The first-named is a favorite of ours, and where we have passed many pleasant hours of Summer, Starting from town in a sail-boat similar to that delineated in the picture, it proves a most delightful trip to sail across the harbor, go through the canal at the Cut, then follow on until the draw at the railroad bridge allows a safe transit, and from thence sail down the Annisquam River, past cozy Summer houses and white tents — the homes of the merry campers, who joyfully greet us as we sail along. With a fair tide and good breeze the passage is quickly made, and we run into Ipswich Bay, coming to anchor off the long white beach, which is so inviting that one longs to wade into the waters which lave the shore and run over the smooth sandy surface spread out for miles. The scene is one of enchanting beauty — the wide expanse of water in the foreground, with the white sails dancing up and down with the billows, and the hillsides dotted with Summer houses — that belonging to Mr. George J. Marsh, so charmingly attractive, commanding particular no- tice, sitting as it does on the very edge of the water, with its solid rocky foundations, its cool and cozy verandas, and its hospitable and restful ap- pearance. But let us return to our party. We must get them ashore, just as in the picture. The boys are wild with delight, and the girls not much better. See how one waves his hat as he stands with his trousers stripped up. He is impatient for the party in the boat to land and join him in his sports. One youngster is fanning the fire with his hat, while another is tugging some wood to keep the blaze agoing. The four girls will have to be brought ashore in the young man's arms — and they are not at all averse to such a landing. The old lobster-trap on the sand looks natural, and the dinner pot, kettle and basket are suggestive of the chowder and lunch a little later. The fishing and rambling, not forgetting the visit to the sand dunes, the bathing, wading, sailing, and that dinner, with the prodigious appetites, are among the pleasing episodes of the day, and when twilight gathers, once more the boat is entered, and with a fair tide and light breexe she skims homeward amid song and mirth from the party who have thus spent a de- lightful Summer day at the beach. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 65 66 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. %\\ '^SUFicmo riant, List of Lost Men and Vessels of the Port of Gloucester, from 1874 to 1881, Inclusive ; Also, a Table of Losses from 1830 to 1881, Inclusive, Covering a Period of Fifty-Two Years. The "Fishermen's Memorial and Record Book" contains a detailed re- port of the losses of vessels and mariners belonging to this port from 1S30 to 1873 inclusive. In addition to the losses of 1863, published therein, there was one vessel which was not recorded, the sch. SUCCESS, Capt. William H. Parsons, lost in the mackerel fishery on the Nova Scotia shore. She was owned by Mr. David G. Allen, 47 tons, and valued at $2,500; in- sured for $1,200 in the Gloucester Mutual Fishing Insurance Co. Crew saved. Herewith we present a list of the losses since 1873, completing the record for fifty-two years past. In that time 419 Gloucester vessels, of the value of $1,810,710, and insured for $1,355,418, have been lost, and 2,249 Glouc- ester mariners have perished at sea, making the average annual loss 8 ves- sels and 43 lives. 1874. Total loss, 10 vessels and 68 lives. Lost tonnage, 633.17. Value, $49,- 100. Insurance, $44,975. Eighteen of the lost seamen left widows, and children to the number of 37. 2 vessels were lost in the Newfoundland fishery, 4 in the Grand Bank fishery, i on Western Bank, i in the Shore Winter fishery, i in the Bay St. Lawrence, and i in the Menhaden fishery. Only 2 lives were lost in the Georges fishery this year. Sch. LAURA A. DODD, 94.36 tons, owned by Leighton & Co., lost on FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 67 Miquelon Island, in February, on the passage to Newfoundland. Crew saved. Value, $7,000 ; insurance, $6,000. Sch. MARY G. DENNIS, 68 tons, owned by Dennis & Ayer and Capt. Randall McDonald, lost in Long Island Sound on the passage from New- foundland for New York. Crew saved. Value, $6,500 ; insurance, $5,000. Sch. B. H. SMITH, 65.26 tons, owned by Clark & Somes, lost on Grand Bank Feb. 11. Value, $7,000; insurance, $6,000. Crew list — Charles Johnson, master ; David Anderson, Matthew Walker, Lewis Dickson, Chas. Jackson, Samuel Johnson, John Carroll, Robert Nelson, Samuel Peterson, John Nelson, Josiah Howard, and one man name unknown. Sch. JOHN CORLISS, 72.54 tons, owned by Walen & Allen, lost near Barrington, N. S., on the passage home from Grand Bank, March 17. Crew saved. Value, $6,200; insurance, $5,800. Sch. ROBERT BRUCE, 44 tons, owned by James Mansfield & Sons, lost at Cape La Have Nov. 12, on the passage home from Grand Bank. Crew saved. Value, $2,000 ; insurance, $1,750. Sch. G. G. KIDDER, 66.32 tons, owned by Leonard Walen, lost on Grand Bank in November. Value, $5,200 ; insurance, $4,550. Crew list — Thomas Downie, master ; Luke White and his son Thomas, John Coolin, James Merchant, William Jackson, John Vickary, John Smith, George Beat- tis, John McDonald, James McDonald, Rory J. McDonald, Allan Mehlman. Sch. WHITE FAWN, 64.49 tons, owned by George Friend & Co., lost on Western Bank in March. Value, $6, too; insurance, $5,400. Crew list — Daniel Nickerson, master ; Mark Haskell, Henry Perry, Benjamin A. Gray, Woodbury Nickerson, Asa R. Nickerson, Walter Hopps, George Gray, Henry C. Murphy, James Murray, Thomas Monroe, David Commiskey. Sch. WESTERN LIGHT, 20.53 tons, owned by Peter Bolter, engaged in the Winter shore fishery, lost on the Maine coast in January. Crew saved. Value, $600 ; uninsured. Sch. CARRIE FRANCES, 8S.67 tons, owned by James G. Tarr & Bro.. engaged in Bay St. Lawrence mackerel fishery, lost on Malpec bar Aug. 6, Crew saved. Value, $7,500 ; insurance; $6,000. Sch. SARAH M. SAUNDERS, 50 tons, owned by Leighton & Co., en- gaged in the menhaden fishery, sunk off Dennisport May 20. Value, $1,000 insurance, $875. Lost Overboard. — Gamaliel Swain from sch. S/iihh, and Capt. Neil Mc- Kenzie and John DeVoh from sch. George B. Lori/tg, on Grand Bank, Nov. 8. Archibald Kennedy from sch. Fits J. Babson, Jan. 11, and John Carpen- ter from sch. Ocean Belle, Feb. 10, on Western Bank. Alexander McDon- ald from sch. Oceanus, Nov. 21, and Charles McDonald from sch. Enola C, Dec. 15, in the Winter shore fishery. Frederic Rhodes from sch. FreJ P. Frye'xn Gloucester harbor, Oct. 17, in the shore mackerel fishery. George 68 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. M. Bryant from sch. Hattie B. West, March 13, and Joseph H. Bird from sch. Express, Nov, 23, on Georges. Lost in Dories. — Patrick Lynch and James Mcintosh from sch. J. F. Allen, Jan. 20; Michael McDonald and Harvey Whitman from sch. Carrie P. Morton, June 13 ; Capt. Henry Crowell and Rufus Spinney from sch. William V. Hutehings, in October ; Charles Lennox from sch. ffereward, Aug. 15 ; John Hanley and Stuart Hadley from sch. Everett Steele, Dec. 8 ; Benjamin Griffiths and Neil McLane from sch. Clara B. Chapman, Sept. 14; all on Grand Bank. David Henderson from sch. Edward A. Horton, Feb. 26 ; Hiram Saunderson and Harry Anderson from sch. Notice, April 17; Murdoch Martell and Thomas White from sch. C. B. Manning, May 30 ; Alonzo Roberts from sch. Sarah C. Pyle, April 20 ; William Phalen and Michael Boudrout from sch. Mary Louisa, in May; Charles McPherson and Charles Keefe from sch. Morning Star, Aug. 5 ; all on Western Bank. 1875- 16 vessels and 123 lives were lost this year. The loss of tonnage was 1,050.91. Value of vessels lost, $88,500. Insurance, $81,726. 10 vessels and 91 men were lost in the Grand and Western Bank fisheries, 5 vessels and 27 lives in the Georges fishery, i vessel in the mackerel fishery, 4 lives in the shore fishery and i in the herring trade. Sch. DAVID BURN HAM, 20, 64.57 tons, owned by Brainard Low & Co., lost on the Banks in January. Value, $5,600 ; insurance, $5,000 on vessel and outfits. Crew list — Alfred Daggett, master ; William L. Reeves, L. H. Hawson, Patrick Powers, James A. Bushey, Frederic Lindsay, George W. Stuart, Archibald McDonald, William Coolin, Michael Curtiss, Peter H. Miller, Charles Wilson. Sch. JOSEPH CHANDLER, 69.94 tons, owned by Leonard Walen, lost on the Banks in January. Value, $6,000 ; insurance, $6,050 on vessel and outfits. Crew list — Frank McRae, master ; Charles Gunnison. Hugh Ken- nedy, F. A. Beaton, Daniel McDonald, Joel McCaleb, Charles Anderson, Allan McMullen, Alex. Campbell, Henry Mosier, James McDonald, Duncan Mclntire. Sch. SARAH H. CRESSY, 63.03 tons, owned by Leighton & Co., lost on the Banks in Februarj'. Value, $4,600 ; insurance, $4,525 on vessel and outfits. Crew list — Daniel McFadden, master ; Allen McKinnon, William Freeman, Thomas Joy, Calvin McPhail, K. J. McKenzie, Charles F. Sin- clair, Samuel McLean, Malcom Morrison, Alex. Grant, John Maguire, John Kelly. Sch. J. C. CALL, 78.42 tons, owned by Leighton &: Co., lost on the pas- sage to the Banks in February. Value, $8,800 ; insurance, $7,700. Crew list — Robert S, Baker, master; Martin Madison, Pius McPhee, David Dum- FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 69 phy, Joseph Bouchy, Hendrick Jensen, John Donovan, Andrew Peterson, Anthony Cash, Henry O'Neil, Richard Bramble, Christian Peterson. Sch. PHARSALIA, 76.96 tons, owned by George Steele, lost on the Banks in November. Value, $12,000; insurance, $10,000. Crew list — Samuel A^ Keene, master ; A. W. Getner, J. Peterson, M. Johnson, Oscar Wilson, Charles Smith, Martin Peterson, Theodore Reed, Louis L. Baile, John Lewis, Howard Steele, John W. Strahan. Sch. BLOOMINGDALE, 59.67 tons, owned by Walen & Allen and em- ployed in the Bank fishery, lost at Cape Breton, June 11. Crew saved. Value, $2,500; insurance, $2,188, with $800 additional on outfits. Sch. MONADNOCK, 74.49 tons, owned by Poole & Cunningham, lost at Magdalen Islands in June. Crew saved. Value, $7,900 ; insurance, with outfits, $8,000. Sch. HATTIE M. LYONS, (i(i 70 tons, owned by D. C. & H. Babson, lost in Bank fishery at Cape Breton, Aug. 19. Crew saved. Value, $4,900 ; insurance, $4,200, with $800 on outfits. Sch. JOHN W. DODGE, 83.07 tons, owned by James A. Stetson, lost: near Yarmouth, N. S., on the passage home from the Banks, Nov. 6. Crew saved. Value, $3,000; insurance, $2,200. Sch. ABBY M. HEATH, 58.98 tons, owned by Poole & Cunningham,, abandoned on the homeward passage from the Banks in December. Value,. $4,500; insurance, $2,875. Sch. WILLIAM H. THURSTON, 54.58 tons, owned by David Low & Co., employed in Georges fishery, lost on Gull Island, N. S., in February.. Crew saved. Value, $3,000; insurance, $2,500. Sch. J. O. FRIEND, Jr., 5981 tons, owned by Sayward Brothers, run. down and sunk on Georges, May 5. Crew saved. Value, $5,000 ; insur- ance, $4,375 o'"* vessel and $400 on outfits. Sch. MONTANA, 62.75 tons, owned by Rowe & Jordan, employed in^ Georges fishery, lost near Cape St. Mary's, May 10. Value, $4,800; insur- ance, $4,275, with $400 on outfits. Sch. H. B. STANWOOD, 63.83 tons, owned by Pettingell & Cunning- ham, lost on Georges in March. Value, $4,900 ; insurance, $4,300. Crew list — Lauchlin McLean, master ; Samuel Erickson, David Wooster, Albert Faulk, James McLean, Daniel A. McLeod, John McKay, James McKenziCj. Charles McLean, Norman McLean, Neil McDonald, Daniel McLeod. Sch. WILLIAM C. ENDICOTT, 61.21 tons, owned by William C. Wonr son, lost on Georges in March. Value, $5,000 ; insurance, including outfits, $4,863. Crew list — John Jones, master; Frederic Smith, James Johnson, C. Gunderson, E. Hamlin, Frank Nelson, Andrew Johnson, Peter Olsen, James Mahar, John Perow. Sch. BELLE OF THE BAY, 52.90 tons, owned by Leighton & Co., era- 70 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. ployed in the Southern mackerel fishery, run down and sunk off Block Isl- and, June 7. Crew saved. Value, $6,000; insurance, $4,875. Lost Overboard, etc. — The following persons were lost overboard on Georges: James Haynes fron\ sch. Mary E. Daniels, March 3; Edmund Coolin from sch. B. F. Somes, March 4 ; John Wilson from sch. Etta Gotf, April 19; Michael Pender from sch. Finance, May 14; Harrison T. Clark from sch. John Q. Adams, in October. August Anderson from sch. El Dorado, on Middle Bank, March 16 ; Mi- chael Shea from sch. Elisha Crowell, in Provincetown harbor, Oct. 28 ; Charles Anderson from sch. C. P. Thompsofi, on the passage to Fortune Bay. The following persons were lost in the Bank fishery, most of them while out in dories to visit their trawls : Angus Harrigan and William Edwards from sch. William Parsons, 2d, Jan. 15 ; Rory McDonald from sch. Knight Templar, Jan. 17 ; Pierce Howard from sch. El Dorado, Feb. 14; William H. Smith from sch. William A. Pew, in Liverpool (N. S.) harbor, in Febru- ary; Blanchard Campbell from sch, N H. Phillips, March 18; John Mar- shall and Patrick Manning from sch. Knight Tetnplar, April 6 ; John Wilson from sch. Etta Gott, April 19 ; Pius Mclntire and Hugh Gilmore from sch. Wachusett, May 3 ; John J. Powers and Norman McLeod from sch. Chal- lenge, Sept. 23 ; George F. Wilson from sch. Gertie E. Foster, Sept. 29 ; James Greneben from sc\\. James Bliss, Sept. 22 ; John Johnston and John Peterson, Oct. 21, and Henry Morine, Nov. 2, from sch. Aberdeen; Morris Bryant from sch. Moro Castle, Oct. 26 ; Joseph Morey, W^illiam Gallivan, John McDonald and Henry Stello from sch. Epes Tarr, Oct. 27 ; Thomas Stevens and Peter Johnson from sch. Alfred JValen, Nov. 7 ; Charles Hymes from sch. Andrew Leighton, Nov, 11 ; Nicholas Devereaux and Edward Mc- Carty from sch. Peter D. Smith, Nov. 14; Thomas Morrissey and Edward Collins from sch. Fitz J. Babson, in November ; Frederic Peterson from sch. Onward, m November; Charles Fogg and John Dennen from sch. Le- vanter, on Middle Bank, Nov. 23. 1876. 27 vessels, i fishing boat and 212 men were lost this year. The vessels covered a tonnage of 1,691.44 tons, and were valued at $150,000, with $116,222 insurance. Of the lost seaman, 54 left widows, and 112 children were made fatherless. 167 men went down in their vessels, 21 were lost over- board, and 24 were lost in dories while visiting their trawls. 9 vessels were lost on Grand Bank, 6 on La Have Bank, 3 on Georges, 3 in the Bay St. Lawrence, 3 in the Winter shore fishery, and i each in the Western Bank, shore mackerel and herring fisheries. 12 vessels and 90 men were lost in a scries of gales extending from Dec. 9 to 16. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 71 Sch. HENRIETTA GREENLEAF, 91.22 tons, owned by Leighton & Co. and Capt. William H. Greenleaf, capsized and sunk on passage to Grand Bank, April 8. Value, $10,000; insurance, $8,000. The captain and four of the crew were subsequently picked up in a dory, but the follow- ing were lost: Franklin Greenleaf, James Peters, Alfred Short, George Connors, Joseph Gardner, Bernard Jewett, Charles Pattie, John S. Tobie, George S. Rowe and Freeman Crawford. The four first named were drowned in their berths , the last-mentioned died of exposure in the dory which was picked up, and the others were never heard from after the dories parted company the evening after the disaster. Sch. JANET MIDDLETON, 66.43 tons, owned by Smith & Oakes, lost on Grand Bank in April or May. Value, $7,550 ; insurance, $6,057. Crew list — William Wentzel, master, and his brother, name unknown • Charles Reeves, Caleb Wheaton, John McFadden, Simon Landry, Jerry Saunders, John Russell, Walter S. Williams, Samuel P. Remick, John McFarland. Sch. JAMES L. SHUTE, 105.57 tons, owned by Shute & Merchant, also lost on Grand Bank in April or May. Value, $13,000; insurance, $10,275. Crew list — George H. Norwood, master ; Percy H. Norwood, Felix DeCost, Charles B. Turner, Edwin P. Turner, George W. Fyle, Robert S. Mills, John Cody, William Sampson, Michael Trueby, Paul Veno, Henry Cook, William O'Brien, John W. Porter. Sch. WALTER M. FALT, 67.46 tons, owned by Leighton & Co., lost on Grand Bank in September. Wreck seen dismasted and water-logged. Crew never heard from. Value, $8,800; insurance, $7,100. Crew list — Bennett Perry, master; John P. Colby, James Keyes, John Ginevan, Thomas Da- vidson, Patrick Dugan, James Wheeler, John Phalan, Charles L. Austin, Thomas Burke, George Williams, Patrick Busteed. Sch. WILLIAM T. MERCHANT, 76.76 tons, owned by Shute & Mer- chant, lost on Grand Bank in December. Value, $5,800 ; insurance, $5,075, with $1,000 additional on outfits. Crew list — Angus Anderson, master; Barney Frazier, Charles Frazier, brothers ; John Barry, Robert Miles, Alex. Babbin, Samuel Thurber, Charles Anderson, B. W. Alby, John McKay, Joseph Gosby, Moses Stafford. Sch. D. E. WOODBURY, 65.25 tons, owned by Smith «& Gott, lost on Bank trip, in December. Value, $5,200; insurance, $4,55°, with $700 on outfits. Crew list-^Franklin D. Pinkham, master ; David S. Corson, An- drew M. Anderson, William Olsen, Oliver Olsen, Andrew Hanson, John Brant, Edward Sperling, James S. McLeare, and one man name unknown. Sch. JOB JOHNSON, 64.07 tons, owned by Joseph O. Procter, run down and sunk on Grand Bank in July. Crew saved. Value, $6,350 ; insurance, $5,182. Sch. DANIEL A. BURNHAM, 72.35 tons, owned by Leonard Walen, 72 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. capsized and abandoned in Grand Bank fishery, Dec. lo. Crew taken off. Value, $6,500 ; insurance, $5,500. Sch. GETTYSBURG, 70.32 tons, owned by Cunningham & Thompson, employed in Bank fishing, abandoned in December. Crew taken off and landed at Plymouth, Eng. Value, $5,400; insurance, $4,350. Sch. J. F. ALLEN, 62.63 tons, owned by B. Haddocks & Co., lost on Western Bank in October. Value, $4,625 ; insurance on vessel and outfits, $5,025. Crew list — John Campbell, master; William McNare, Joseph Brown, James Brown, Alpheus Campbell, Woodbury Lewis, Angus McDonald, Smith McDonald, William Rogers, Thomas Russell. Sch. KEARSARGE, 59.03 tons, owned by John Pew & Son, lost on Georges in April. Value, $4,500; insurance, $1,500. Crew list — Solomon Burchell, master ; John Haffey, Patrick Dorsey, Joseph Fritz, Frank Hep- son, Joseph Fritz, Jr., Joseph Sawyer, John Francis, Joseph Enos, Murdock Smith, Charles King. Sch. SARATOGA, 74.96 tons, owned by George Steele, lost on Georges in May. Value, $10,000; insurance, $8,800. Crew list — John McMillan, master; John Hiltz, John D. Carter, William Mackay, Edward McGuire, Albert Walker, Andrew J. Woodman, F. E. Lewis, Jr., John Murphy, Charles Richards, William B. Walker. Sch. LANCET, 56.76 tons, owned by Joseph O. Procter, engaged in the Georges fishery, abandoned on Georges Dec. 10. One of the crew, John Kirby, washed overboard and drowned. Value, $3,000 ; insurance, $2,500. Sch. HOWARD STEELE, 60.37 tons, owned by George Steele, lost on La Have Bank in December. Value, $5,150; insurance, including outfits, $5,125. Crew list — Edward Murphy, master; William Silvey, Patrick Cos- tello, Barnard P. Scanlan, George Melroy, Peter Stapleton, Edward Walsh, Thomas Ready, Peter Collins, James McQuillan, Daniel Curtis. Sch. JOHN S. TYLER, 63 tons, owned by Sidney Friend & Bro., lost on La Have Bank in December. Value, $4,600 ; insurance on vessel and outfits, $4,425. Crew list — Arthur O'Neal, master; Felix O'Neal, Murdoch McCloud, Alexander McCloud, his son, Edward Berry, William Laney, George Allen, Louis Wilson, William Sullivan, Henry Maddox. Sch. J. F. HUNTRESS, 63.73 tons, owned by Samuel Haskell, lost on La Have Bank in December. Value, $5,900; insurance, $5,163 on vessel and $400 on outfits. Crew list — Richard Rose, master; George L. Hen- drickson, Frank M. Anderson, John M. Johnson, Charles J. Anderson, An- drew Anderson, Harry Beck, Peter J. Olsen, Thomas Thompson, John Beck. Sch. MODENA B. JERAULD, 70.34 tons, owned by D. C. & H. Bab- son, lost on La Have Bank in December. Value, $5,300 ; insurance, $3,900. Crew list — Charles P. Mitchell, master ; Edward Haines, John C. Haines, brothers ; Michael Keefe, Freeman Snow, William Snow, his brother. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 73 Edward Herring, B. D. Joyce, Lewis D. Martin, Emanuel Rose, Daniel Gardner. Sch. ROBERT EMMETT, 45.25 tons, owned by Charles Parkhurst, lost on La Have Bank in December. Value, $4,500; uninsured. Crew list — Joseph Grey, master ; John E. Saunders, Seth S. Colby, Samuel Spinney, Alex. Boyd, Edward Dodge, Samuel Tyng, William Michaels, Thomas Tarreo. Sch. WYOMING, 55.21 tons, owned by McKenzie, Hardy & Co., lost on La Have Bank in December. Value, $5,500 ; insurance, $4,732. Crew list — Henry Nauss, master, and his brother Arthur ; James Jeffrey, Warren Williams, Thomas Haney, Charles Forbes, Alex. Thompson, John Haskins, George Crittenden, Joseph Zink. Sch. COL. ELLSWORTH, 82.45 tons, owned by Capt. Oliver F. How- ard and engaged in the Bay St. Lawrence mackerel fishery, lost at the Mag- dalen Islands, Aug. 20. Crew saved. Value, $5,500; insurance, $4,800. Sch. RELIANCE, 46.49 tons, owned by Walen & Allen, also employed in Bay mackereling, lost near Canso, Sept. 21. Crew saved. Value, $3,600 ; insurance, $2,550. Sch. TIBER, 44.70 tons, also owned by Walen & Allen, another of the Bay St. Lawrence fleet, wrecked at Louisburg, Sept. 29. Crew saved. Value, $1,775 ; insurance, $850. Sch. CHALLENGE, 36.16 tons, owned by Eben H. and Franklin Griffin, wrecked on the Maine coast in the shore mackerel fishery, July 6. Crew saved. Value, $1,000; uninsured. Sch. JOHN STORY, Jr., 27.48 tons, owned by Capt. Charles H. Orne and engaged in the Winter shore fishery, run down and sunk off Eastern Point, Jan. 27. Crew saved. Value, $800; insurance, $700. Sch. GLENWOOD, 62.44 tons, owned by Rowe & Jordan, also employed in the shore fishery, run into and sunk off Highland Light, Feb. 19. Crew saved. Value, $6,000; insurance, $4,113. Sch. MAZEPPA, 47.57 tons, owned by Capt. Oilman Roberts, lost at Brace's Cove in the shore fishery, Nov. 2. Crew saved. Value, $1,000; insurance, $700. Sch. ELLEN FRANCES, 55.44 tons, owned by B. Maddocks & Co., lost on the passage from Souris, P. E. I., with a load of potatoes, in December. Value, $2,450; insurance, $2,144 on vessel and $1,000 on cargo. Crew lost. Commanded by Capt. John Lunergan of Beverly, with a crew of four men, names unknown. Boat BONANZA, owned by Capt. John Carter, was wrecked in the off- shore fishery, off Plymouth, May 23. Crew saved. Value, $600 ; uninsured. Sch. GEORGE PEABODY, of Salem, chartered by Capt. George W' 74 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Plumer of this city, was wrecked in the Bay St. Lawrence in October, and sold for $1,500. She is not included in our figures. Lost Overboard. — Louis Beck from sch. Sarah C. Pyle, Jan. 4 ; Capt. Maurice Walen from sch. Marathon, on Georges, Feb. 22 ; Capt. Robert N. Mackey on the passage from Fortune Bay, Feb. 14 ; Dennis Lyon from sch. Nathaniel Webster, Feb. 24; Capt. Martin Nelson from sch. Arizona, on Georges, Feb. 24 ; S. Augustus Webb from sch, John S. Presson, on Grand Bank, Feb. 26 ; Nathaniel Gillis from sch. David Crockett and Nelson Mitch- ell from sch. Edwin C. Dolliver, on Grand Bank March 11 ; John O'Brien from sch. Joseph O., on Georges, March 26 ; George Carpenter from sch. Robert Emmett, on Georges, April 10; N. T. Chatto from sch. Bloomer, off Portsmouth, July 24; Alfred Meyers from sch. Edward E. Webster, on Grand Bank, July 4 ; Richard Tibbetts from sch. Charles P. Barrett, on Middle Bank, Oct. 12 ; James Sigsworth, Frank Dunn and Daniel McNeil from sch. F. A. Smith, on Grand Bank, Oct. 16 ; Michael Morgan from sch. Victor, on Grand Bank, in December ; Joseph Teddy and Charles Cook from sch. Ruth Groves, on Georges, Dec. 1 1 ; George Miller from sch. Howard on Grand Bank, Dec. 10. Lost in Dories. — Charles H. Fisher and Chester W. Denton from sch. Polar Wave, Jan. 19; John G. Smith and John Davis from sch. Restless, in January ; all on Western Bank. Herbert Gorman, mate of sch. Flash, at Newfoundland, Feb. 24. Daniel Brynnelson and Stephen Stone from sch. Alfred Walen, on La Have Bank, March 17 ; Capt. John McCloud from sch. Addison G. Procter, Feb. 8 ; William Norton and Albert Sulkey from sch. Frederic Gerring, Jr., Feb. 28 ; James Horton and Thomas Kennedy from sch. Edwin C. Dolliver, March 3 ; George Patience and Charles An- derson from sch. Fitz J. Babson and John McMillan and John McAuley from sch.y; F. Allen, April 18; David Shearer and William Diggers from sch. Hrewdrd, June 27 ; Charles Olsen and Charles Strimm from sch. Aber- d:en, in August ; Nicholas Surratt from sch. Shiloh, Sept. 20 ; Angus Mc- Kay and George Party from sch. Epes Tarr, Sept. 27 ; Charles Haley from sch. Charles P. Thompson, Oct. 6 ; all on Grand Bank. 1877. This was a year of general depression in the fishing industry, but the losses were comparatively light. 7 vessels were lost in the fishing busi- ness and I in the coasting trade, their tonnage being 722.33, and their value about $45,000. Insurance about $22,000. Number of lives lost in the fisheries, 38. Sch. MAY QUEEN, 53.56 tons, owned by Capt. Isaac P. Peterson, wrecked in shore fishery on Coney Island, Jan. 2. Crew saved after seven hours' extreme peril and suffering. Value, $3,400; insurance, $2,975. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 75 Sch. ELIZA JANE, 46.43 tons, owned by James Mansfield & Sons, lost near Shelburne, N. S., Jan. 23. Crew saved. Value, $2,400 3 insurance, $2,400. Sch. GEN. GRANT, 86.11 tons, owned by John Pew & Son, lest at New- foundland in January. Crew saved. Value, $5,550; insurance, $2 500. Sch, MARY BURNHAM, 65.71 tons, owned by Harvey Knowlton, Jr., lost on La Have Bank in January. Value, $4,712; insurance, $4,623. Crew list — Alexander Lyle, master ; James Howard, John Willow; David S. Merchant, Thomas Lauray, Lawrence McVarish, Randall McVarish, Alex- ander McVarish, James Campbell, Robert King, Edward Martin. Sch. CLARA B. CHAPMAN, 68.19 tons, owned by Dennis & Ayer, lost at Sandy Point in May. Crew saved. Value, $5,114; insurance, $4,975- Wreck sold for $1,000, Sch. ANN MARIA, 41.78 tons, owned by Gardner K. and Howard Wonson, and employed in the Georges fishery, lost on Newburyport bar July I. Crew saved with considerable difficulty. Value, $1,050; insur- ance, $928. Sch. BELLE, 23.15 tons, owned by George R. Gates and others, lost near Portsmouth, N. H., in the shore fishery, Aug. 17. Crew saved. Val- ue, $750 ; insurance, $600. Three-masted sch G. P. POMEROY, 337.40 tons, lost with all her crew on the passage from Brunswick, Ga., for Bath, Me., with a cargo of ship timber, in an April gale. About two-thirds owned in Gloucester and one- third in Manchester, Beverly, Boston and Salem. Commanded by Capt. Francis A. Bryant of Gloucester. $1,500 insurance in the Gloucester Fire Insurance Co., and other small amounts elsewhere. Lost Overboard. — Capt. Daniel M. Gray from sch. B. F. Somes, March 13 ; John Kennedy from sch, Adelia Hartwell, March 26 ; Manuel Veada from sch. Dictator, Oct. 6 ; and Hans Antone Olsen from sch. Arizona, Nov. 2, all in Georges fishery. Neil McPhee from sch. Highflyer, in New York harbor, in May. Walter H. Merchant from sch. Etta Gott, in the Bay St. Lawrence, Sept. 22. Capsized in Dories. — Alphonso Babson and Gorham Parsons in Ips- wich Bay, March 13. Andrew Anderson off Eastern Point, May 7. Harry Miller, of sch. Ehen B. Phillips, in Gloucester harbor, Oct. 10. George B. Michael and William Burnham from sch. Eben B. Phillips, March 18 ; John Daniels and Edward Spencer, of sch, Frederic Gerring, Jr., March 27 ;, Ed- ward Coles and Howard Powers from sch. Edward E. Webster, and James Murphy from sch. Eben Parsons, April 12 ; Harry Richardson from sch. Lizzie K. Clark, May 21 ; Lemuel Parsons and John Holmes from sch. Co- rinna H Bishop, May 30 ; Neil Johnson and Charles Culvert from sch, Marion, June 3 ; Adolph Jackson and Matthew Huntwell from sch. Andrew 76 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Leighfon, Sept. 26 ; and Daniel McDonald and Albert Mizner from sch. G. P. Whitman, Nov. 4, all on the Banks. Capt. Joseph Campbell killed by falling from aloft on board sch. Gertie E. Eoster, on the Banks, Nov. 6. 1878. The fishing losses for this year numbered 11 vessels, 795.90 tons, valued at $60,794 and insured for $48,767, and 55 lives. Two Gloucester coasting vessels were lost this year, making the total number of vessels 13, tonnage 907.57, value $64,794, insurance $49,967, lives 56. Sch. CARRIE P. MORTON, 84.19 tons, owned by Walen & Allen, lost on Grand Bank in January or February. Value, $7,200 ; insurance, $6,300. Crew list — Antone S. Downs, master ; Joseph Gay, Angus McLean, Jesse McLoud, Anthony Holthes, Augustus Frazier, Emanuel Enos, Charles Burke, Lawrence Powers, James Lundry, John Rose, David Atwater, Sam- uel Bragg, LeVanze. Sch. JULIA WOOD, 92.89 tons, owned by James Mansfield & Sons, wrecked near Liverpool, N. S., in April. Crew saved. Value, $9,000 ; in- surance, $7,878. Wreck sold for $700. Sch. ORONOCO, 48.21 tons, owned by John Pew & Son, lost on Straits- mouth Island, July 5. Crew saved. Value, $2,000; insurance, $1,050. Wreck sold for $16.50. Sch. LILIAN GERTRUDE, 58.06 tons, owned by Daniel Sayward and others, lost on Mt. Desert Rock, July 12. Crew saved. Loss, $5,500; insurance, $4,454. Sch. LIZZIE & NAM ART, 94.09 tons, owned by George Laturen, mas- ter, and Almon Mason of Pigeon Cove, lost near Matinicus, Aug. 31. Crew saved. Value, $7,000 ; insurance, $6,000. Wreck sold for $50. Sch. MARY LOUISE, 68.15 tons, owned by Daniel Sayward and others and employed in the Georges fishery, run down and sunk 60 miles east of Boston Light, Sept. i. Crew saved. Value, $5,475 ; insurance, $4,592. Sch. RIVAL, 53.88 tons, owned by Sylvanus Smith, lost at the Magdalen Islands, in September. Crew saved. Value, $2,054; insurance, $1,798. Wreck sold for $430. Sch. RIVERDALE, 61.41 tons, owned by Maddocks & Co., run into and sunk off Thacher's Island, Nov. 23. Crew rescued. Value, $4,240 ; insur- ance, $3,423. Sch. CUNARD, 74.65 tons, owned by James G. Tarr & Bro., lost on the Banks in November or December. Value, $6,000 ; insurance, $3,600. Crew list — Garrett Galvin, master, Philip Hennesy, John H. Reynolds, Joseph Lockwood, Andrew Crowell, James and John Harding, brothers, John Ryan, FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 77 Allen C. Brian, John Drury, Daniel McLeod, James Tobin, and two others shipped at Port MulgTave, whose names are unknown. Sch. NIMBUS, 60.30 tons, owned by Leonard Walen, wrecked on Cape Negro, in December. Value, $4,470; insurance, $3,911, with $1,000 addi- tional on outfits. Two of the crew, Augustus Long and Andrew Robinson, were drowned. Sch. MOSES ADAMS, 99.87 tons, owned by Samuel Lane & Bro., aban- doned at sea, Dec. 21. Crew rescued with considerable difficulty. Value, $5,155 ; insurance, $4,761. Sch. MODENA, 61.48 tons, owned by Bennett Griffin, lost in coasting trade off Cape Cod, June 21. Crew saved. Value, $1,000; uninsured. Sch. SAM'L WONSON, 50.19 tons, owned by B. Haskell & Sons and employed in coasting trade, wrecked in Liscomb harbor, N. S., Dec. 20. Crew saved. Value, $3,000; insurance, $1,200. Lost Overboard. — James McQuarrie from sch. Moses Adams, on passage from Newfoundland, Jan. 21. John Manuel from sch. Polar Wave, March 12, and Joseph Smith from sch. Andrew Leig/iton, Sept. 22, in the Bank fishery. Thomas Smith from sch. Dictator, March 20, and Samuel K. Pearce from sch. Mary Story, Oct. 13, on Georges. Capt. Philip Conley from sch. Smuggler, on the passage from Grand Menan, Dec. 19. William Martin from sch. Hyperion, off Milk Island, Nov. 18. Lost Overboard by Collision. — Thomas Kirby from sch. Racer in col- lision with sch. Electric Flash, in April ; Willis Bateman from sch. Edivard E. Webster in collision with sch. Hereward, on the Banks, in May ; Nelson M. Doane and William Post from sch. Sarah C. Fyle in collision with an unknown bark, off Thacher's Island, June i. Capsized in Dories. — Alex. McGinnis from sch. Centennial, Jan. 20 ; John Peterson and Augustus Peterson from sch. A?idrew Leighton, March 22 ; Judson W. Allen from sch. Knight Templar, April 8 ; Sylvester Mitch- ell and Albert Eldridge from sch. Ossipee, Aug. 22 ; all in the Bank fishery. Thomas King from sch. Annie C. Norwood, and John Dakin from sch, Ellen H Fo7vers, Dec. 19, in the shore fisher}^ Lost in Dories. — Angus McKenzie and Allen Grant from sch. John S. Fresson, Feb. 18, and William Tate and Charles Russell from sch. Josie M. Calderwood, Oct. 9, on the Banks ; William Cole and Lemuel Hagan from sch. Alary F. Chisholm, on La Have Bank, Dec. 19. Capt. H. A. Bearse of the coasting schooner Hattie N. Gove was knocked overboard and drowned in New London harbor, Dec. 2. 1879. This was the most disastrous year ever experienced in the Gloucester fish- eries, so far as loss of life is concerned, although the number of vessels lost 78 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. was less than in 1873. In 1879, 249 Gloucester fishermen sailed from port never to return. The number of vessels lost was 29. Of these, 15 were lost in the terrible gale of Feb. 20 and 21, 13 on Georges and 2 on the Banks, leaving 57 widows and 140 fatherless children to bewail their loss. This terrible calamity appealed forcibly to the sympathies of the benevolent, and contributions for the relief of the destitute were received from all parts of the land to the amount of $28,216.72. 4 vessels and 37 lives were lost in an October gale. The loss of tonnage in 1879 ^^^ 1,893.36. Value, $111,056. Insurance, $90,582. Besides the losses in the February gale, during the year 5 vessels were lost in the Bank fishery, 3 in the mackerel fishery, 2 on freighting voy- ages, and I each squiding, shore fishing, baiting, and on La Have Bank. The losses in the February gale were as follows : ON THE BANKS. Sch. EDWIN C. DOLLIVER, 87.07 tons, owned by Walen & Allen, abandoned Feb. 26. Crew taken ojff. Value, $7,000 ; insurance, $5,800. Sch. GWENDOLEN, 82.41 tons, owned by Cunningham & Thompson. Value, $7,154; insurance, $6,010. Crew list — Zadock Hawkins, master; Lyman H. Morey, steward ; Edward Landry, Richard Hurley, Alex. Mc- Kenzie, John McKay, Michael Donahoe, William Nelson, Augustus Crow- ell, John McGuire, James Calwell, Daniel McDonald, William Chute, Wil- liam C. Wilson. ON GEORGES. Sch. ANNIE HOOPER, 69.27 tons, owned by B. Maddocks & Co. Value, $3,485 ; insurance, $3,112. Crew list — Patrick Foley, master; Sam- uel Shano, steward ; Joseph Smith, David Hogan, Manuel Smith, Stephen Halley, Jackson Clark, Fitz E. Oakes, Michael Hart, William Fisher alias Anderson, Peter Peterson. Sch. ANNIE LINWOOD, 59.09 tons, owned by Rowe & Jordan. Value, $3,725; insurance, $3,322. Crew list — Thomas Council, master; Patrick O'Brien, Frederic J. Knowles, Daniel D. Morrison, John Silva, Frank Fer- ris, John Smith, John Lawrence, Angus McDonald, August Mitchell and one man whose name is unknown. Sch. GEORGE B. LORING, 58.50 tons, owned by George Norwood & Son. Value, $2,119 ; insurance, $1,917. Crew list — George W. Lane, mas- ter ; Joseph M. Lane, brother to master; Reuben H. Ellis, Morris Riley, Ambrose Thebedo, James M. Boynton, George Whitman, James White, George Yates, Edward P. Townsend. Sch. JACOB BACON, 66.44 to"s, owned by Cunningham & Thompson. Value, $5,186; insurance, $4,600. Crew list — Christian Anderson, master; Richard Carroll, James Powers, Charles Fox alias Johnson, Patrick SuUi- FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 79 van, James Bowie, Conrad Carleson, Frank White, John Sherman, Edward F. Jameson, John Wilson, and Hugh Hennan, steward. Sch. JOHN DOVE, 59.02 tons, owned by Smith & Oakes. Value, $3,193 ; insurance, $2,857. Crew list — Lewis Caliste, master ; Alex. Girrior, John Coughlin, Theophilus V. Porter, Samuel \^'est, William Delroy, Joseph Enos, Benjamin Decoste, Charles Campbell, and Edward and Benjamin Levange, brothers. Sch. JOSHUA S. SANBORN, 63.89 tons, owned by David Low & Co. Value, $2,795 ; insurance, $2,008. Crew list — George Gray, master; Wil- liam Carter, John H. Holmes, Michael Allen, Edward Walton, John J. Wil- liams, James Burge, Roland D. Blodgett, Bertram Blake, John A. Howard, Charles Claherty. Sch. LOTTIE F. BABSON, 61.96 tons, owned by D. C. & H. Babson. Value, $2,505; insurance, $1,096. Crew list — Seward Reynolds, master ; Robert Reynolds, brother to master; John Graves, Lorenzo Chute, John Batson, Daniel Tatton, George Pooler, Samuel Thompson, Joseph Boone, James Boshey, and Fred. Hall, steward. Sch. MARY CARLISLE, 66.78 tons, owned by Andrew Leighton. Val- ue, $3,425; insurance, $3,060. Crew list — Joseph Scott, master; John L. Ingersoll, Ralph Irving, Philip Vibert, Cyrus Young, William Merchant, Alex. Cogill, Oliver Thompson, Alex. McMaster, Peter McKinnon, George Matthews. Sch. MARY LOW, 63.97 tons, owned by David Low & Co. Value, $2,930; insurance, $2,126. Crew list — James F. Dunton, master; John Tarr ; Phillippe Deveaux, Elkanah Nason, Ariel P. Burnham, Paul Theba- deau, Joseph King, Fred. Kenniston, Frank Silva, Joseph White, Peter Jennison. Sch. MAUD & EFFIE, 85.23 tons, owned by Willard G. Pool. Value, $S>735 ; insurance, $4,581. Crew list — John Mclsaac, master; Michael Mclsaac, his brother, Joseph Nowlan, their brother-in-law ; Edward Gordon, Roland McDonald, Allen McDonald of East Boston; Joseph Rogers, Joseph McAskell ; Edward Shearman, the latter's brother-in-law; Andrew Swinson, Neal Beaton, William McMaster, William Frazier, Roderic Steele. Sch. MORNING STAR, 52.92 tons, owned by Joseph O. Procter, Jr. Value, $1,895; insurance, $1,721. Crew list — John B. Spanks, master; David B. Gorman, William W. Shelton, Antone Aveney, David Jones, F. H. Stimpson, John Black, James Roberts, Charles Ibey, Michael Muldoon. Sch. OTIS D. DANA, 64.28 tons, owned by Pettingell & Cunningham. Value, $3,335 ; insurance, $2,981. Crew list — William Willoughby, master ; Archibald McCatheren, Boley Bushey, John Carvey, George C. Stearns, Charles Netherwood, John Atwood, Frederic Hill, Paul A. Peterson, and Charles Mason, steward. 8o FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Sch. SEA QUEEN, 61.47 tons, owned by Andrew Leighton. Value, $3,242; insurance, $2,900, Crew' list — Charles Wilson, master; Nicholas M. Thompson, Peter Trumbull, A. W. Peterson, Olof Jensen, Neils Han- son, Axel Olssen, John Anderson, William Brown, August Peterson. OTHER LOSSES. Sch. IDA E. BAKER, 63.69 tons, owned by George Norwood 5: Son, lost on Western Bank in April. Value, $4,380 ; insurance, $3,783. Crew list — M. H. Adams, master; John Benson, Robert Mclnies, Joseph McDon- ald, George Major, Frank Oscar, William T. Long, Charles Johnson, Charles White, John McNair, Hugh McCormack, John Jerriwa. Sch. WILLIAM THOMPSON, 84.15 tons, owned by Cunningham & Thompson, lost on a Bank halibuting trip in April. Value, $7,200 ; insur- ance, $6,057. Crew list — Christian Olsen, master; Dennis Thelning, Chas. Anderson, Chresten Johnson, Samuel Nordahl, John P. Johnson, Andrew Hanson, Martin Soderstrum, Carl Leweau, Martin Anderson alias Johnson, Julius Manguson, Elias Fladen, Martin Johnson, and Charles S. Olsen, brother of the master. Sch. N. H. PHILLIPS, 66.93 tons, owned by William McDonald and others, lost on Banquereau in October. Value, $4,500 ; insurance, $3,862. Crew list — William McDonald, master ; John Welch, John McKinnon, Al- bion Bowden, John McDonald, Charles Crawler, Neal McDonald, Michael Mclnnis, John Steele, John and Richard Tobin, brothers, Duncan Mclsaac, Clifton Thompson. Sch. HARVEY C. MACKAY, 64.77 tons, owned by William Parsons, 2d, & Co., lost on a Bank codfishing trip in October. Value, $3,595 ; in- surance, $3,071. Crew list — Frank Nolan, master; George Holly, W. H. Bartlett, William Higgins, Charles W. Hunt, Everett Campbell, Augustus Campbell, Frank Crowell, Frank Hobbs, and a young man named Morton. Sch. ANDREW LEIGHTON, 83.56 tons, owned by Cunningham & Thompson, lost on La Have Bank in October. Value, $6,800 ; insurance, $5,698. Crew list — Oscar W. Alden, master ; Andrew McDonald. Samuel Grassy, Oscar Wistar, Frank Nelson, Martin Hogan, Charles Berg, Martin Strahan, Adolph Nelson, Frank Veaneau, Frank Flake, John Boudrout, Andrew Olsen, Henry Johnson. Sch. CITY OF GLOUCESTER, 6S.64 tons, owned by Rowe & Jordan, bound on a Bank trip, lost off Chatliam, June i. Crew saved. Value, $4,665; insurance, $4,146. Sch. ALICE M. LI'^W'IS, 66.82 tons, owned by Capt. Jesse I^ewis, lost in the Southern mackerel fishery at Townsend Inlet, April 14. Crew saved. Value, $3,560 ; insurance, $2,678. Sch. GEORGE S. LOW, 61.69 tons, owned by David Low «i Co., lost FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 8i in the Southern mackerel fishery near Tovvnsend Inlet, May ii. Crew saved. Value, $3,000; insurance, $2,200. Sch. CARRIE F. BUTLER, 68.35 tons, owned by William Parsons, wrecked at Rustico, Oct. 31. Crew saved. Value, $2,000; insurance, $1,500. Sch. O. S. BAILEY, 58.22 tons, owned by Hardy Brothers and others, abandoned at sea on passage from Dominica for Boston, Nov. 22. Crew rescued. Value, $6,000; insurance, $4,700. Sch. TRENTON, 41.72 tons, owned by David Low & Co., wrecked near Deer Island, May 11. Crew saved. Value, $1,250; insurance, $500. Sch. CADET, 60.38 tons, owned by B. Haskell & Sons and employed in the squid fishery, wrecked at Langlaid, N. S., Aug. 14. Crew saved. Val- ue, $2,500; insurance, $1,600. Sch. RIVAL, 53.88 tons, owned by Sylvanus Smith, wrecked at Rye Beach in the Winter shore fishery, Feb. 24. Crew saved. Value, $1,810; insurance, $1,534. Sch. SPARKLING WAVE, 48.66 tons, owned by Wonson Brothers, wrecked in the bait fishery on Shovelful Shoal, May 15. Crew saved. Value, $1,475 ') insurance, $1,253. Lost Overboard. — John Clancy knocked overboard from sch. ,5". R. Lane, Feb. 8, and Michael O'Malley fell overboard from sch. Edward A. Horton, Feb. 19, in Winter shore fishery. Daniel McDougal washed overboard from sch. J. J. Clark about 70 miles off Highland Light, March 6. George Hunson jumped overboard from sch. Jamestown in the harbor, April 16. Michael Tobin washed from bowsprit of sch. John Stnith, Aug. 29, on Georges. Capsized in Dories. — Charles and Clarence Myers, brothers, from sch. Oceaniis, in Winter shore fishery, Jan. 28. Andrew Johnson from sch. Wil- liam H. Oakes, in February ; George Ryan from sch. William H. Foye, March 2 ; Lewis Thompson, Gordon Scott and William Nickerson from sch. Herbert M. Rogers, March 10; James McDonald, George Perkins, Da- vid B. Tinker and Joseph Goslin from sch. Hattie S. Clark, and Thomas Williams of sch. Ernest F. Norwood, March 25 (while going ashore at Bliss Harbor, N. B.) ; David Morrison from sch. Mary F. Chisholm, in August; John and Malcom McCloud and James Publicover from sch. Laura N^elson, Dec. 26 ; all in the Bank fisheries. Robert McDonald and Joseph Chis- holm from sch. Highflyer, on Jeffrey's, Dec. i. Lost in Dories. — William Andrews and Nicholas Colberg from sch. Al- ice G. Wonson, Jan. 29 ; John Olsen and Charles Hanson from sch. Andrew Leighton, March 18 ; Arthur Hennan and Thomas Davidson from sch. Gath- erer, March 31 all on the Banks. 82 FISHERMEJSrS OWN BOOK. 1880. 4 schooners and 3 boats, of a tonnage of 300.44, valued at $21,000 and insured for $15,972, were lost this year. The number of lives lost was 52. I schooner was lost in the Bank halibut fishery, i in the Winter shore fish- ery, I on Georges and i on Cashe's. i fishing boat was lost on Eastern Point, I on the coast of Maine, and i was run down and sunk in Ipswich Bay. Sch. ANNIE C. NORWOOD, 60.05 tons, owned by George Norwood & Son, lost on Cashe's, March 23. Value, $3,610; insurance, $3,310. Crew list — Joseph M. Hurst, master ; Joseph Garrett, William Isaac, William Fardy, David Roberts, Patrick Neal, James Anderson, George Crawford, William Holland, Charles Higgins, Thomas Orne, Lawrence Nelson, Ed- ward W. Wilson, Charles Armstrong. Sch. NATHANIEL WEBSTER, 76.04 tons, owned by D. C. & H. Bab- son, lost on a Bank halibuting trip, in November. Value, $6,000 ; insur- ance, $5,000. Crew list — Robert C. Grant, master; Hector Mclsaac, Chas. Bennett, Charles Hubley, John Frazier, James Grant, Isaiah Horton, John McDonald, John Peoples, Dominick Mclsaac, John I. Wilson, John Mc- Mullen, Silas McLellan, and a Mr. Jacobs. Sch. OCEAN BELLE, 67.02 tons, owned by Sylvanus Smith, sprung aleak and sank on Georges, March 26. Crew taken off. Value, $3,192; insurance, $2,992. Sch. WINIFRED J. KING, 63.61 tons, owned by Capt. John King, wrecked in the Winter shore fishery at Brace's Cove, Feb. 3. Crew saved. Value, $4,670 ; insurance, $4,470. Boat BEE, 8.13 tons, owned by William Tarr, lost on Eastern Point, Nov. 19. Crew saved. Value, $300 ; insurance, $200. Boat HARP, 10.88 tons, owned by William N. Mace and William P. Den- nis, lost on Green Island, Me., March 27. Crew saved. Uninsured. Boat I TELL YE, 14.71 tons, owned by George J. Tarr & Co., run down and sunk in Boston Bay, Oct. 27. Value, $2,000; no insurance. Lost Overboard. — Emery Hooper washed from foreboom of sch. Seth StockbrUge, on Grand Bank, in March ; Frank Williams fell overboard from sch. E. L. Rowe, April 17 ; Capt. Daniel Rowe, 2d, knocked overboard in Boston Bay from sch. yiv/^/^ <5^•y«//^ (by collision). May 12; Edward Day washed overboard from sch. Frederic Gerring, Jr., on the Banks, Sept. 9 ; Thomas Anderson washed overboard from sch. Epes Tarr, on Grand iiank, Nov. 7. Capsizkd in Dories. — Patrick Harrigan and Allen McGinnis from sch. Augusta H. Johnson, Jan. 3 ; William Malloy, John Raymond and Jerry Simmons from sch. Plymouth Rock, Jan. 7 ; Stephen Johnson and Augustus Hendrickson from sch. Isaac A. Chapman, Feb. 11 ; Capt. James Nickerson FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 83 and James Downing from sch. Bellerophon, in February ; Augustus Ander- son from sch. David A. Story, Aug. 10; all in the Bank fisheries. Died in Dory. — George Nelson from sch. Polar Wave, on Banquereau, March 28. Lost in Dories in the Fog. — Matthew McDonald and Joseph Merchant from sch. David A. Story, on the Banks, in February; John Higgins and David McDonald from sch. Marion, on Western Bank, March 28 ; Joseph Coffee and Charles E. Seebloom from sch. Epes Tarr, on Western Bank, April 18 ; William Geary and John Landry from sch. Schuyler Colfax, on the Banks, Aug. 21. 1881. 8 vessels and 56 lives were lost this year. The loss of tonnage was 511. 51. Value, $31,000. Insurance, $20,493. Besides these losses, the ANSON STIMSON of Rockport, a fine schooner of 224,31 tons burthen, belonging to the Pigeon Hill Granite Company, was wrecked on Brigantine Shoal bar, N. J., Jan. 6, on the passage from San Domingo for New York,, her master, Capt. Albion Sloman, having died at sea, and the crew of six men being down with chills and fever, leaving only the mate and cook tO' work the vessel. The Gloucester losses were : 4 in the Bank fisheries, i in, the shore and i in the mackereling fisheries, and i engaged in coasting, as> follows : Sch. CARRIE S. DAGLE, 74.53 tons, owned by William Parsons, 2d,, & Co., lost on Western Bank, April 15. Value, $4,000; insurance, $3,375. Crew list — Richard Richardson, master ; John F. Deveau, C. A. Bergman,. Jeffrey Bushey, Thomas Milford, Edward Jedrey, John McDonald, Asahel Landro, George W. Kinch, Eli Thibadeau, Hugh York, Coleman Jennings. Sch. GUY CUNNINGHAM, 87.84 tons, owned by Cunningham & Thompson, lost on Grand Bank in August or September. Value, $7,000 ; insurance, $5,985. Crew list — Daniel O'Brien, master ; John C. Hanson, Frank Shivrie, John Proctor, Niel Walker, Charles Johnson, John Burns,. Andrew Nelson, Peter Peterson, Andrew Serresten, Henry Gushing, Loc. McQuarrie, Chas. Baston, Sch. CLARA B. WARREN, 51.67 tons, owned by Mr. William J. Nourse,. wrecked near Catch Harbor, N. S., Aug. 8, while returning from, a Bank, trip. Crew saved. Value, $3,000. Sch. THRESHER, 80.10 tons, owned by Daniel Allen & Son, engaged: in the Bank fisheries, stranded and burned at Cape Sable, Sept. 24. Crew sav»ed. Value, $6,500; insurance, $5,500. Wreck sold for %2>^. Sch. HIGHFLYER, 53.73 tons, owned by Benjamin Low, wrecked at Carver's Harbor, Me., with a cargo of frozen herring on board, Jan. 10. Crew saved. Value, $2,500; insurance, $1,500. 84 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Sch. VANGUARD, 40.47 tons, owned by Edward Contillon, Samuel G. Pool and William H. Gardner, engaged in net-codfishing in Ipswich Bay, wrecked off Rye Beach, March 19. Crew saved. Value, $1,800; insur- ance, $900. Sch. LIZZIE K. CLARK, 72.19 tons, owned by Clark & Somes, bound South on a mackereling trip, capsized and sunk about twenty miles southeast of Barnegat, March 25. Crew saved. Value, $5,000; insurance, $3,323. Sch. LADY FRANKLIN, 50.98 tons, owned by Capt. Elias Olson and engaged in freighting paving stones, sunk off Stanwood's Point in Anni- squam river, July 11. Wreck sold for $150. Lost Overboard. — John White washed overboard from sch. Willie M. Stevens, and John Weston from sch. Martha C, in January ; John Roper from mainboom of sch. Lizzie, Feb. 2, and William Riley, washed overboard from sch. Ocean King, Feb. 22 ; Capt. Robert Ehler of sch. Carthage, caught by foot-rope on mainboom and drawn overboard, off Monhegan, Nov. 27 ; all in the Bank fisheries. Capt. Horace Merry from mainboom of sch. George P. Rust, off the Isle au Haute, April i, and Michael Sampson washed overboard from sch. Mary E. Daniels, April 26, in the Georges fishery. Edward Nickerson fell overboard from sch. Hattie N. Reed, in Portland harbor, July 21, in the mackerel fishery. John A. Johnson from sch. Her- :man Babson, in September, on the return trip from Greenland. William Rooney, cook of sch. Addie Efnma, fell overboard in the Bay of Fundy, Nov. 28. Capsized in Dories. — Charles Bell from sch. Bellerophon, on Banque- reau, Jan. 28. Elias and Peter Landry, brothers, from sch. Fleur de Lis (shore fishing), in attempting to cross Newburyport bar, March 16. Benja- min O'Hara and William L. Grant from sch. Mist, March 8 ; Lewis Dulong and Charles Richards from sch. Webster Sanborn, June 23 ; John Guthrie and Laughlin Kennedy from sch. Zenobia, Aug. 2 ; George M. Sigsworth from sch. Victor, Aug. 12 ; John Frost from sch. Plymouth Rock, Nov. 12 ; Albert McKennon from sch. Wachusett, in November; all on Grand Bank. Joseph Avenue, in November, and Henry Burke, John Hayes, Archie Mc- Donald and Barnard Glenn, Dec. 23, from sch. Smuggler, engaged in the shore fisheries. Capt. Warren Guptill, of Gloucester, master of sch. Ella of Boston, was lost with that vessel on the passage from Boston for Baracoa, in September ; William Harrison Card of Newcastle, N. H., engaged for some fifteen years in the Gloucester fisheries, was mate of the Ella. Robert Swain was lost overboard from sch. Orient of Gloucester, on the passage from Baracoa for New York, .in January. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 8S TABLE OF LOSSES FOR 52 YEARS. Year. Vessels. Tonnage. Value. Insurance. Lives. 1830 3 ^5,600 $3,100 7 1832 1 1,000 1833 1 1,000 1834 1 1,500 4 1836 1 1,000 1837 5 • 10,100 4,300 21 1838 4 7,100 3,000 1,4 1839 2 3,S00 3.150 4 1840 2 3,800 1,400 6 1841 2 2,725 150 8 1842 3 2,000 i.no 1843 3 6,000 2,000 [10 7 1844 3 4,800 1,500 1845 4 4.500 2,350 8 184« 3 4,900 3,600 15 1847 3 6,200 4,450 1849 2 3,500 2,200 10 1850 4 12,500 10,300 31 1851 9 25,300 21,800 32 1852 13 41,200 37,100 ;40 1853 3 ' 10,000 8,S00 1854 4 14,600 12.650 ;26 1855 7 20,900 16,100 1 *"-' 21 1856 6 14,400 11.475 l2 1857 5 11,500 7,750 9 1858 7 18,700 8.537 '42 1859 6 21,900 16.475 36 1860 7 26,350 20,494 74 1861 15 54,250 43.900 44 1862 19 66,500 •53,225 162 1863 10 40,700 8,300 6 1864 13 98,900 59,625 84 1865 8 504.93 40,300 82.400 11 1866 15 1,055.00 114.250 82.095 26 1867 11 '844.57 82,675 59,069 66 1868 4 2S2.27 35,000 28,150 39 1869 16 858.81 83,450 54,887 65 1870 13 788.15 75,200 59,907 97 1871 20 1,035.93 90,560 78,253 140 1872 12 576.68 55,400 49,121 63 1873 31 1,624.55 118,700 100,918 174 1874 10 633.17 49,100 44,975 68 1875 16 1,050.91 96,000 81,326 123 1876 27 1,075.46 150.000 116.222 212 1877 8 722.33 45,000 22.000 39 1878 13 907.57 64,794 49.967 56 1879 29 1,893.36 111,056 90,582 249 1880 7 300.44 21,000 15,972 52 1881 8 419 511.51 31,000 $1,810,710 20,493 $1,355,418 56 2,249 86 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Welcome Home. A ROMANCE IN A FISHERMAN'S LIFE. BY M. W. C. "You will not be angry, clear Janie, if I leave to-night? There's no way out of it for me. I can go with a light enough heart if only you'll tell me you do not mind." "Nay, I'll not be angry, David, only grieved, deeply grieved. I do mind, for you know I had counted on your being here the 3d — " The sweet voice faltered here ; the blue eyes that had been so laughter- clear and bright, an hour since, grew blurred with bitter tears under the long curled hazel lashes. "The 3d — Wednesday — is the day we wedded six years ago, David; you remember how often we have said we would spend that day together here in our own home." "Ay, Janet > but you would not have me shirk a trust?" David Colburn's clear soul looked through his shining eyes as he spoke these words. One could see that his resolve was fixed : there would be no more faltering now for him. "The fishing schooner .S'«<^Z4y-j5//v/ leaves port to-night; her own- ers do not believe the master, Bradley, to be trusty, and they want a man on board who can lend a hand, thwart any evil designs on their property, or even take command if need be. That man whom they select in confi- dence is I. Now, Janet, shall I go? You say the word." FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 87 David Colburn looked his young wife steadily in the face. One could see that he had small doubt what that word would be. " I say the word ? I have this to say, God love thee and keep thee, dear David, wherever thou art. Ay! and He will! He will!" She put her faithful arms about his neck ; her truthful eyes looked into his. "But now tell me, in plain words, you are not angry; say just the words and I'll go with a lighter heart, Janet." Again that strong, sure smile. "Not angry; no! I never shall be angry with you, David, so long as I know you are doing right. And now," she went on, after a moment's pause, "now let us go and see Dolly, Dora and Davie." An hour later David Colburn had bade good-bye with " God bless thee " to his wife and his three darling little ones, and his wife's triumphant "God keep thee, my husband," still sounded soothingly in his ears as he walked down to the wharf where the waiting schooner Sfiow-Bird lay. And Janet, for all her brave words and her sure faith — for all her stern principle — carried a sore heart that night. She went about her duties calm- ly, but her step was slow. David was gone. They had counted on living their wedding day over again together, to make that one day's perfect hap- piness in their newly built cottage give all its sweets to them over again in talk and loving memory — but now David was gone ! She was kneeling at dusk on the hearth, toasting bread for the children's supper. Suddenly a heavy step sounded from the walk, then came a quick knock and the door was flung rudely open. " Ho ! Janet. Janet Colburn ! Are ye there } " With a startled cry the young frightened wife sprang up, letting her toast- ing fork and her bread fall back upon the fire. "Kenneth Foster!" she exclaimed, falling back a step as the light fell on and revealed her visitor's face. "Ay, it is I ! Your memory is good, Janet, just as mine is. And you are all alone. I came to see how you look in widow's tears. You'll make a fine widow, Janet. There's many a man will be seeking for your hand when the year's out. The widow Colburn's hand ! " The fair face of the listening woman had grown deadly white during the uttering of this man's wild words. She held her children tight to her, gath- ering strength from their soft touch as she answered — her voice, too, was gentle, if weak — " I am alone here with my children, as you see, Mr. Foster. My husband left me to-night. I ask you to leave me till he comes back ; you can say what you wish to him then." "Till he comes back!" Kenneth Foster repeated her words, and then 88 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. he broke into a loud and brutal laugh. "Do you know when your husband will come back to you, Mistress Colburn? It will be when you have finished this life and gone into a different world. There will be other seas and other skies, other men and other women about you in the world where you will meet David Colburn, and you will have to wait long!" The young wife smiled serenely through the calm pallor of her face. "Wherever he may be it will be well with him, you may be sure of that," she said. "Even if it be at the bottom of the sea? " retorted Kenneth. "Well, well. Mistress Janet, I bide my time. You refused me once, when I asked you to be my wife ; be sure I shall not ask you now when you are a widow ! " Before she could interrupt him he went on in a wild whirl of raging words. "Who was it sent your husband out in that craft? The owners, ay! but /moved them to it. It was my work ; and if, some fine morning, the crew wake to find themselves sinking, with a wild sea rushing in, and no help near, why, that will be my work, too!" Was the man mad that he should say this thing? What was it he meant? Was it truth — had he meant to scuttle the vessel — or was it only a threat? Most likely only that ; a threat to frighten her— her, a helpless, lonely woman. She pointed to the door. "You have forgotten God!" was her grand reply. "My husband is in the hands of One whom even the seas obey. God will watch over him. Now go!" He smiled a wicked smile. "I wish you a good evening. Mistress Col- burn. Meanwhile, your bread is burning. You had better take it up, for you know you can't burn your bread and eat it too." He shut the door and went out into the clear night ; too clear and calm and sweet for such a man as he to enjoy, walking among its vines and nod- ding flowers, looking up into its blue heaven to the far mystery of its stars. Meanwhile, she who was left in the little consecrated home, holding the darling heads of her children to her breast, watched and waited and prayed through lonely hours. "If that man's story were true — but no! it was not true — it was a threat, a trumped-up story — prompted by jealous rage." "O David!" she cried, "the very storms are kind to thee ; they pass thee by, not harming one so kind and good." But she watched the sea, the clouds, the heavens, as she had never done before. She waited for news that came not : and then a morning came when she awoke to find the rain pouring, the wind tearing, the sea plunging and the black sky wracked with stormy clouds. "David," she moaned, falling on her knees, "David, where art thou? O, my husband, will the sea take thee, leaving me uncomforted?" But the sea had no answer for her. The husband on whom she called FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK 89 was far away. Not drowned ; ah, no ! Not buried under any mountain wave, cold food for fishes. He had seen lonely hours — night and day when at his work his thoughts were with his dear ones left at home ; in his dreams, too, he was ever with them. His comrades chided him for his lack of sociability; he had no heart for mirth. His greatest pleasure was in the reading of his Bible and in singing the tender songs Janet loved. Those songs were always tender, always telling of love and home. For there have been some stirring sea-songs written — written by men who were never on the sea — but they are not the songs sailors sing. The sea-beaten, homesick sailor does not turn to "A Life on the Ocean Wave" for consolation when he thinks of the faces he leaves behind the curtain of the home window. "The sea, the sea, the open seal I am where I wculd ever be ; * * * * * » T love, O how I love to ride On the tierce, foaming, bui'sting tide," are heartless mocker}', an unmeaning gibberish, to the man who has fought for very life, with death behind him, in the sleet and hail and crashing ice on Georges, or in the polar seas. For him the homely ballad of "Wapping Old Stairs" tells a dearer story. Molly, who says she'll be true and promises, "Your breeches I'll mend, and your grog, too, I'll make," is the dearest sweetheart, and her blue eyes shine across the night and storm. Meanwhile, Janet watched and prayed. With her children she braved the wind and storm, and went to the water-side to be near ///;«. She stretched her arms out, and her hot tears fell on the rocks where she stood. "O sea!" she sobbed, "Spare him! he loved you always ; he has trusted you in your wildest anger, in your darkest moods ; spare him now!'' Bye-and-bye came rumors, brought by an old fisherman, of a schooner drifting at the mercy of the storm — a disabled craft, which the gale pre- vented rendering assistance, and when it was over she was not to be seen, and it was doubtful if she ever returned to port. Bye-and-bye other news came that it was the Snow-Bird — but there were good men on board of her, and there was hope that she might yet be heard from. And Janet heard. O God, pity the tortured hearts of woman at such times as these. She went from fisherman to fisherman, as they got into port. They turned away, shivering, from her sad eyes. "Was there no way to help those drowning men out there? Could noth- ing be done.-" Must they stand idle, watching, while vessel and men went down before their eyes ? " Poor wife! And there were others, too, other hearts trembling, other 90 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. eyes of women weeping, other lips of wives and daughters calling on dear names. The night came on with a gale, and the last that Janet saw or heard was that the vessel supposed to be the Snow-Bird had been blown off and was drifting out of sight. "She's doomed!" an old fisherman said, turning away from the darkening view. "She'll go down ! there's no help for it." Janet heard ; she looked about her with a sickly, piteous smile, as though asking for help for her own misery ; then she fell down in a lifeless heap on the wet stones. Kindly hands lifted her up and strong arms bore her home. On her bed she lay for long hours, her children by her side. She lay in a sort of stupor — she saw the blaze of the fire, she heard voices and footsteps coming and going, through the night. But her mind was torpid — she only realized one fear, that David was lost, and she — "He called me a widow," "she rambled on feebly. "He said I was a widow. What is a widow 1 Is it a woman whose heart is broken t Then I am one ! Oh ! " She put her hand to her brow, and then a merciful sleep came over her, and she dreamed a sweet dream — that David had returned. She awoke! The storm had clearetl away and the morning sun was steal- ing into the bed-room window. Some one said the Snmv Bird had just FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 91 come to anchor. Her heart gave one happy rebound, and she arose and soon dressed herself and the children, and looking out, saw the well-known vessel swinging at her anchor of¥ the Point, with her mainsail swaying in the light morning breeze. She also saw a well-known form rowing ashore in a dory which some kind neighbor had tendered him the use of. Grasping the baby in her arms, with the other little one by her side, and Davie running on ahead, she hastens down the pathway to the beach to meet her husband, for it was he ! It seemed to her that he had really come back from another world. He cries out, "Janet, my wife! my good wife!" And then she knew that it was no dream, for she was in his arms. His dear face was pressed close to hers, and she was so happy. "David, my husband!" and he answered, "God is good; here are wife and children. What more can I want?" And they walked up to the little cottage — this united family — and David explained how the Captain and part of the crew put into an out-of-the-way port, and sold most of the trip and nearly all the moveable articles on the vessel and pocketed the money and decamped — how he, in pursuance to instructions from the owner, then took possession and started home ; how, when twenty-four hours out from port, during a fresh breeze, they found her leaking badly ; how the leak increased as the storm grew worse, and it seemed as if they must go to the bottom ; how his faithful men pumped and strove to stop the leak, and when it seemed as if their efforts were fruitless, and they must disappear beneath the seething waters, they found three holes which had been bored through the vessel's bottom and had been partially filled with a substance which the action of the water had set free ; how these holes were stopped and the staunch vessel, being freed from the water, was herself again, and they got her safely into port. The plot had been revealed to Kenneth Foster, and he was hoping that it would be successful, and when he found that it was not, and David Col- burn had come back — he left the town and never returned. His cowardly heart failed him — he could not look honest David Colburn and his faithful wife in the face, after what had transpired. And David was well remembered by the owners of the Snow-Bird. They reckoned rightly. Without his efforts the vessel would have been lost. They therefore gave him a bill of sale of one-third of her, and remembered the crew with a handsome sum, and David for many years pursued his call- ing in this vessel, making good returns. And Janet was one of the happiest little women in all the town. 92 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. The Fisher-Boy in the Storm. The above spirited picture illustrates a narrative given by an English fisherman. At that time he resided in one of the fishing towns on that coast, and the lad, fourteen years of age, the only son of his widowed mother, got so well used to managing his father's boat, that in the event of not being able to get any one to accompany him, he would, in pleasant weather, run off on the grounds alone and catch his fare of fish. One day he started out with the rest of the boats, and running off farther than most of them, succeeded in catching an extra fare. Just as he was about getting ready to run in, a terrible storm suddenly came on. The other boats being nearer in, ran for the land and escaped the worst of it ; but he, poor fellow, having to get underway alone, was exposed to the full fury of the storm. Anxious eyes watched his coming, and some of the fishermen volunteered to go out after him. The little fellow lost his hat, but not his courage. With a fair wind he kept her well before it, minding well his helm, as his father had taught him. The lightning's livid flashes and the roar of the thunder were not calculated to make his situation very agree- able ; but he heeded them not, and carried her bravely in, clearing the bar and running her safely up to the landing place. Here he was met by his anxious mother, who clasped her darling to her breast, thanking God for his safe return. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 93 Halibut Fishing Among the Ice Floes. BY J. W. COLLINS. It is not unusual, after a Winter of exceptional severity, for large masses of field ice to drift across the eastern fishing banks, especially Banquereau and the Grand Bank. This was especially the case in the Springs of 1875 and 1876, when, for several weeks, a large portion of the fishing grounds frequented by the halibut fishermen was inaccessible to them. Many singu- lar adventures were experienced by the crews of the ice-beleaguered vessels, which still form the subject of conversation among the fishermen. The inconvenience and peril, which was felt very severely at first by the fisher- men, was, however, more than counterbalanced ; for there can be no ques- tion but what these floes of drifting ice hastened the discovery of the " Deep Water " halibut grounds, which have since that time yielded such a rich har- vest. At any rate, the practice of fishing in deep water on the Banks by the halibut fleet dates from the time and circumstances which are here described, though one or two vessels had made previous trials. The writer was in the sch. Howard in the Spring of 1875, and the account here given of events connected with the appearance of the immense ice floe, and also of icebergs, upon the Grand Bank, is principally taken from a letter describing some of the incidents of that occasion. We were detained from sailing on our second trip that winter (1874-5) by easterly winds for two weeks or more, and when we reached the Grand Bank, about the middle of March, the whole of the Bank north of lat. 44 deg. 25 min. N., was covered with heavy masses of field ice. About the time we arrived on the ground the fish left, probably being driven by the ice floes which slowly moved southward, reaching at one time as far south as lat. 43 deg. 40 min. N., in the middle of the Bank, and causing the fish- ermen much anxiety and more or less loss of gear, by unexpectedly drifting on their anchored vessels during the night. On one occasion a number of vessels tried to skirt the ice and get around it, so as to reach the northwest part of the Bank, but towards night of the day on which the attempt was made, a northeast gale and heavy snowstorm came on, and we all lay to under the lee of the ice, which made the sea quite smooth. The next day we found the floe had been driven so far south by the gale that we did not again attempt to get by to the northwest of it, but eight vessels having met together at the southern edge of the ice, all of the skippers went on board of the sch. Augusta H.Johnson to talk over the situation. After deliberating 94 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. awhile, each returned to his own vessel, and while some of us ran to the southward, others laid by, waiting for the ice to recede to the northward. We ran down to lat. 43 deg. 30 niin. N. and long, 50 deg. 30 inin. W., but could find no fish. We were there some'da3'S before the weather permitted us to try, and after we hauled our gear w'e got underway, with a southerly wind, and ran for the western edge of the Bank, intending to strike it north of lat. 44 deg. N. A careful lookout for ice was kept. That evening we spoke the sch. Edwin C. Dolliver at anchor in seventy fathoms, and lay by her for the night. The next morning we made sail, spoke the Dolliver again, and also the schs. Chester R. Zaiorence a.nd Restless. The first two were lying at anchor in sixty to seventy fathoms of water, and the Restless lay in forty- nine fathoms. Neither of them caught any halibut. The ice, driven by the southerly wind, had at this time drifted back to about 45 deg. N. lat, and we worked to the westward in company with sev- eral other schooners, among which were the Restless, E(huin C. Dolliver^ Alfred JValen, N H. Phillips diudjohn S. Presson; all of them setting trawls under sail in the day, and anchoring and setting their gear at night. In this manner the fleet beat slowly to the westward against a moderate breeze, for several days, trying for fish in water varying from forty-eight to seventy fathoms in depth, but catching nothing. The water was so intensely cold that the frozen baits on the trawls would scarcely thaw when set in fifty fathoms of water, or less, and we were almost forced to believe that the fish had all been driven entirely off of the Bank by the great ice field, and the straggling icebergs. The latter were occasionally seen in the deep water off the edge of the Bank. One day we passed by a large berg, about a third of a mile distant from it. On one end of it a sharp pinnacle, resembling the spire of a church, ran up to a height of seventy-five or eighty feet ; the middle was quite low, but the other end rose in a bunch or hummock about twenty feet above the water. The sunlight, playing on this huge mass of ice, throwing lights and shalows here and there, causing the peaks to glitter and gleam for a mo- ment, then darken to a greenish tint, and its constantly changing aspect as we sailed by it, made it an interesting and impressive sight. But the thought that it, or some of its fellows, might drive down on us some foggy and windy night, when we were at anchor, caused us to look upon it with a sense of dread and apprehension instead of the admiration we might have felt in watching such an object under different circumstances.* On the last day of March we all set our trawls as usual — some of the ves- *A f<'W wooks lator it was a common occurronco for Ihc lialibiit catcliors to sliift llioir position to avoid fomiiif!; in collision with ictlx-rfrs. On some occasions the vessels were obiised to move a short distance two or three times in one nip^lit. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 95 sels being at anchor and others under sail — but no fish were caught by any of the fleet, and before dark all of the schooners which had been at anchor got underway. The wind was north-northeast, blowing a fresh breeze, and, knowing the ice was not far off in a northerly direction, no one would have cared to remain anchored, even had there been greater inducement to do so. We were then on nearly the extreme northwest peak of the Grand Bank, and the question was where to go next, for I do not think it occurred to any one then to try in deeper water than we had previously set in. Sch. Edivin C. Dolliver went back to the eastward again, but others of the fleet hung around, speaking with each other, the skippers evidently uncertain in what direction to steer. Having spoken the sch. Carrie P. Morton, which came driving along from the eastward, just at dark, and learned that no fish had been caught by the vessels farther east, I decided to "hold our ground" till morning. We accordingly hove to alongside of the Alfred IValen, which was also lying to. As day broke on the following morning (All Fools' Day) we saw a schooner at anchor and ran down to her in company with the Walen. Finding the anchored vessel was the Restless, we hove to, and Captain Thompson and I, each of us accompanied by three or four men of our respective crews, went aboard of her for a "gam"* with the skipper and crew. She was anchored in eighty-three fathoms of water, and her crew were just setting their trawls when we ran down to her. The skipper of the Restless said he broke out his anchor the evening before and let her drift until the latter part of the night, when, finding deep water, he let it go again. We stayed on board of the Restless until some of her dories returned from hauling, about 10 A. M., when, seeing that they were getting fair fishing on the gear that was in the deepest water, we both returned to our own vessels, and set under sail out- side of the Restless. We were in one hundred and fifteen fathoms, which was then thought to be a great depth to fish in, but the IValen went still farther out, in one hun- dred and thirty-five fathoms. We caught about 4,000 pounds of halibut on a short set, and anchored ; and the JValen, as I afterwards learned, got 8,000 pounds or more, and also came to anchor. In the meantime ichs.John S. Presson, William T. Merchant, Lizzie K. Clark of Gloucester, and the George Peabody of Salem, made their appearance on the scene of action,t and anchored at no great distance to the northwest and southeast of us. The Lizzie K. Clark had a fair berth (about two miles) to the north-nortli- *A ttn-in in uso among whalemen (and by ex-whaleraan on fishing vessels), signifying a chat Ixitween the masters and crews of dillerent vessels. Sometimes a tete-a-tcte betwoeu chums on the same vessel is called "gamming." fOur position was 41 djg. 45 min. N. latitude, and 53 di!g. 53 min. W. longitude. 96 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. west. The afternoon was fine, with a moderate and decreasing northeast wind, and current setting to the northwest or north-northwest. Knowing full well that the first vessel arriving home with a trip would be likely to strike a high market, and of course wishing to be the first, we set twenty skates of trawl — the whole string— in the evening, not dreaming that there was any ice in a southerly direction from us. The next morning was fine and calm, but cool. We had our breakfast before daylight, and just as day was breaking an ice "glin" was noticed in the southern board, and when it grew lighter an immense field of ice could be seen drifting toward us with the current, which still ran north-northwest. Of course, the first thing to be thought of was to get our gear, if possible, or, at least, as much of it as we could. We hoisted the dories out and started at once. One of the crew had had a fainting fit the evening before, which made him quite ill, and I was therefore obliged to go in a dory in his stead. Before leaving the vessel I gave the men orders to get all the gear they could, and if the ice came on them to cut and go aboard. The trawl that we went to haul was off the starboard quarter, four points abaft the beam. We pulled for the outer end, and, on reaching it, began to haul as though our lives depended on our efforts. We succeeded in getting a skate and a half of trawl — about 500 fathoms — in the boat, when we saw the flag in the rigging of our schooner, which we knew was a signal for us to return to the vessel, as the ice was nearing her fast. We instantly cut the trawl, took our oars, and pulled with all our might to reach the vessel before the ice did. Another dory which was near us started about the same time, and we both met the ice about six hundred feet astern of our schooner. When the ice passed the vessel the men on board had the presence of mind to throw a buoy, to which a line was fast- ened, on one of the leeward cakes of the floe. This buoy we got hold of and made it fast to the bow of the head dory, securing the bow of the other boat close to the stern of the front one. The current was running at least two knots, and the buoy line being under the ice near the buoy, we had a hard struggle for some time to make any progress toward the vessel, and to get the line on top of the ice. The men on the vessel held a strain on the line, while we jumped out of the head dory onto the ice, sometimes hauling the boats over the larger cakes, and again siioving the smaller pieces clear of the dories and line. The ice was broken into sections of all sizes, from a piece of a few pounds weight to one fifty feet in diameter and six to ten feet thick. In this manner we worked, tugged and pulled, never resting for a moment, until at last we had the line clear and above the ice, when it became a comparatively easy matter to reach the vessel. After getting on deck we found one of the George Peabodys and one of FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 97 the Wil/iam T. Merchant's dories aboard of our vessel, while one of our dories, which had held on to the trawl too long, had to seek a refuge on board of the Lizzie K. Clark. After our dories were taken in we had a bet- ter chance to view the scene, which certainly had a decidedly arctic appear- ance. As far as the eye could extend from aloft, in a southern and eastern direction, an almost unbroken mass of drifting field ice was all that could be seen. Here and there, however, a small streak or pond of water added a little diversity to the otherwise monotonous appearance of the frozen ocean. All of the forenoon and the first hours of the afternoon the ice kept drift- ing by us, being carried along with the current. But our anchor held fast, though the strain was great on our cable as the heavy masses of ice came up against the bows and went grinding, gritting and groaning along the ves- sel's side. After a while a moderately sized open space was seen ahead, and as it approached us the men belonging to the Peabody and Merchant anxiously watched it, being very desirous to reach their respective vessels, which were not far off. In this they succeeded. • A moderate breeze sprang up in the afternoon, and the Lizzie K. Clark, getting into one of the clear streaks, got underway and worked up abreast of us, when she forced her way through the ice, passing close alongside, dropping our dory, which came aboard all right. Meanwhile, we had hove short on our cable, and seeing an open place to windward, were all ready to break out our anchor as soon as the opening came near enough to us. We waited only a short time before we got under- way, after which we stood back and forth along the weather edge of the ice, watching for the trawl buoys to make their appearance, and as fast as they did, sent a dory to haul the trawl. This area of clear water was of considerable extent, and, since the current did not run so swiftly as before, we had a very good chance to work. How- ever, the ice was down on us again before we got all the gear, but the men stuck to it, and, as there was a fine sailing breeze, the vessel could force her way through the floe quite well. It was nine o'clock in the evening when the last dory came aboard — the others had finished hauling their gear before dark. The ice was all around this boat during the evening, but we kept near to her, though it required close calculation to keep the run of her in the darkness. The men in her got the whole of their gear, and, notwith- standing the unfavorable appearance of things in the morning, we lost only one skate of trawl. When, at last, all hands were safely on board, and we were seated at the supper table, the incidents and anxieties of the day be- came the subjects of an animated conversation, and each one had a yarn to spin in relation to his experience during the day. 98 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. In the meantime, the crews of the other vessels had not -been idle, for, taking advantage of any favorable circumstance, they had endeavored, like ourselves, to haul their trawls. Three of the Alfred Waleti's crew had a narrow escape from what promised much suffering, if not death. They were Philip Merchant, William Furley and Thomas Olsen. When the area of clear water, that I have before spoken of, came along, they started out to get their trawl, the vessel still remaining at anchor. They were caught in the ice, and although they held on to the trawl, which was the only thing they could do, the floe carried them adrift, and their chances to reach their vessel again were looking slim, when, late in the afternoon, the Lizzie K. Clark spoke the Walen^ and the skipper of the latter requested Captain Murphy (as his — Murphy's — vessel was under sail) to go to their assistance. The Clark immediately kept off, but as she had to force her way through the ice, it was just growing dark when she reached the drifting boat, and past nine o'clock when she got back to the IValcn. The dory was nearly three miles from the Walen when picked up, and such a timely rescue must have been gratefully appreciated by men fatigued, hungry and chilled to the marrow. After the Clark reached the Walen she made fast to the stern of the lat- ter with a long warp for the night, the only instance of one vessel lying fast to another on the Grand Bank I ever knew of, and I think the only one on record.* We kept under sail during the night succeeding the day of which I have been writing, and held our position by observing the riding lights of the other vessels. The following morning we anchored. We had foggy weather after this for the three days we stayed there, which made trawling somewhat dangerous ; for, although the main floe had passed by, detached pieces and long narrow streaks of ice kept coming along, and, oftentimes, when the dories were caught to leeward of these, the men had great difficulty in work- ing their way through or over them. Frequently the boats had to be hauled, over the ice for a distance of one or two hundred yards. This trouble was increased by the denseness of the fog, which shut out from view all but the nearest objects, and tlie fisherman leaving the side of his vessel felt that the thick mist, which hung like a pall over the face of the sea, rendered his task more perilous and uncertain than ever before, hiding as it might a vast floe of ice which would carry him away with it to drift helplessly until he succumbed to cold and hunger. Fortunately, however, no more serious ad- venture occurred than that already mentioned, though the men comprising tiie crews of the entire fleet did not hesitate to brave the unknown perils incident to the occasion. 'The ice mudi; tln' \v:itcr us smooth :is ii mill poml. FISHERMEN'S O WN BOOK, 99 All of the vessels secured good fares of halibut, and some made large stocks. The rough experience of some of the fleet in the ice was apparent on their return home, when it could be seen that the planking at the water's edge was badly chafed and cut, in some cases necessitating repairs. A funny incident occurred one evening on board of our vessel, during the fog-mull to which allusion has been made, when a man of undoubted pluck and hardihood literally got scared at his own shadow. Sometime during the day the fog had lifted for a short time, disclosing to our view a number of French brigs and barques slowly working their way along the ice towards St. Pierre. The fog soon shut down again, and the moonless and starless night was as black as pitch. Having obtained a good catch of halibut in the afternoon, we were busily engaged in dressing them until quite late in the evening. Owing to the darkness a light had to be held for each "scrub- gang" so that the "scrubber" could be sure that the fish were properly cleaned. I was holding the lantern for one gang, standing inboard and close to the scrubber, who, busily employed in his work, stood in a stooping position facing aft. Suddenly he straightened up and (possibly with the French vessels in mind)Lcast a quick look out on the port side into the dense fog, upon which his shadow, reflected from the light behind him, stood out like a huge dark spectre. "Keep off! keep off !" he shouted, with a voice like a Stentor, while the hearty laugh of the rest of the party immediately followed his last cry. We knew at once what he had seen, and he comprehended the situation, too, as soon as he had a chance to think. "What are you hailing your shadow for, Tom?" some one asked. " Did you think it was going to run you down ?" "My God!" he exclaimed in reply, "I thought it was a Frenchman, and it seemed to me that the jibboom was, going to be run down my throat." lOO FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. LIST OF VESSELS BELONGING TO THE PORT OF GLOUCESTER IN 1850. COMPILED BY WILLIAM BABSOX. B.VEQUES. Xame. Tons. Name. Tons. Argo 53 Dolidiin 63 "Name. Tons. Atalanta 74 D. P. King 73 Bronda 350 Atlantic 50 Eldorado 60 Galileo 2(50 Augusta 42 Eli 55 Izt'tte 275 Augusta Parker (iO Eiiza A. Procter 80 Massasoit 206 Avon 55 Eliza A. Steele 77 Avon G4 Ellen 60 BRIGS. Baltie 65 Emelinc 61 lialtiniore 32 Enterprise 64 Amazon 202 Banvurd (i2 Everett 30 Afjcuora 202 B.-lle 71 Excelsior 60 Boston KiO Bellona 5.S Exchange 61 Carter Braxton 150 n. J I. Corliss 7« Excliange 40 Eagle 150 Bonavcuturc 35 Eair Plav 31 Grampus 210 Bonnv Moat 15 Elag of Truce 43 Julia llelen 1()0 Rriljiant 52 Flirt 80 Niger 20!t CajM- Ann 64 Florida 67 Pleiades 2.S5 Caiiitol 5S Forest 86 Sarah Ann VX] Centurion 56 Franklin 80 A'ietorin 110 Cera 30 Garlan.l 130 "Weliingsley 212 Cham]jion 64 Gazelle 72 Cliariotte Ann 6>S Gazelle 62 SLOOPS. C'berokec 70 (Jem 30 Clarion 70 Gen. AVashington 65 Venus 73 Clcnieiiiiue I). Stacy 75 (icorge Ivlward 42 lleroine 65 Clinlou 5() (Jeorgianna (i5 Columbia 65 (Jrace Darlini^ 72 SCHOONERS. Congress 73 11. A. llolbrook 66 Constitution 6S Halcyon 37 Abigail 5fi CoMNuy (15 llani'iil.al (!0 Abigail Brown 75 CoU\oV 57 Helen Maria 63 Alabama (1!) Collage 45 Ilenrv 80 Alexander 80 Cvgnet (il Herald 45 America 27 Daniel 1). Smith 4!> Hibernia 50 Ann Maria (Hi Diana 70 Hosea MalloU 64 Areola 02 Diligent 48 llunlress 59 FISHERMEN'S O WN BOOK. LIST OF VESSELS- —Continued, Kame. Tons. Xcwie, Tons. Nanm. Tons. Imogen 66 Nautilus 69 Sarah Elwell 57 Iowa 76 Niagara 66 Science 62 Jnines Isaac 2S Nile 55 Signal 37 Jciiuy Liiul 7") (Jcean Queen 64 Sisters 44 John" 100 Oconee 73 Splendid 4S Josephine 56 Ohio 67 Star of Hope 88 J. P. Ober 7i) Oregon 6S St. Lawrence 63 July 54 Orion 66 Success 45 Laiioni m Orozimbo 62 Swampscott 3S Laurel 5() Pennsylvania OS Swan 45 Leader 5S Pilot ■ 67 Talisman 68 Leona 71 I'ocahontas 71 Theory 37 Lion 24 J'otomac 70 Thorn 65 Lucinda 55 Premium m Three Sisters 45 Lucv Ann 67 President 49 Tiber 65 Lucy A. ruleifer !S0 Princeton 60 Traverse 62 Lucy Wharf 5S Pi-<)tector 62 Tremont 64 Marion 38 Hanger 43 Tri-nton 71 jNIarv Eliza 70 R-aper 50 Union 68 Mary Eliza 5.-5 Redwing 24 Van 30 Mary S. Wonsou S4 Reliance 75 Victory 66 M'^taniora 57 Richmond 67 Virgin 62 Miriam 53 Rio del Norte " 60 Watchman 60 Molly 73 Ripple 35 Wavi! 80 Montrose 62 Robert Bruce 71 Wave 77 3Ioutezuma 76 Rockaway 61 Welcome Return 29 Mount Yernon 6S Romeo 60 Wm. P. DoUiver 80 Napoleon 52 Romp 76 Wm. Penn 66 Native 70 Sarah 67 Yorktowu 50 4 barques, 1101 tons, average 275 tons; 12 brigs, 2273 tons, average 189 Ji; 2 sloops, 128 tons; 16G schooners, 10,029 tons, average 60 >3 tons. Total vessels, 184; tonnage, 13,531 ; average tonnage, 73/2. Of these 184 vessels owned in Gloucester 32 years ago, although several are doubtless still in existence, only one, the Lucy Ann, is still owned here. The Lucy Ann is 46.54 tons, new measurement, was built in Essex in 1849, and is owned by Mr. Samuel Haskell. Very many of the readers of this volume will peruse the above list vvith joleasure, as the recalling of the names of these vessels will awaken many pleasing reminiscences when some of them were the "crack" vessels of their day, and the trips they made and the associations connected therewith, will recall the past with all its wealth of associations connected with the fisheries of that period. I02 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. THE PHANTOM BOAT, A Legend of Cape Ann. BY E. NORMAN GUNNISON. The tide comes in and the tide goes out, And the rollers break on the harbor bar, And up from the distance comes a sail, Gleaming white 'ueatli the morning star. Fishing tackle and boats on deck, Running rigging l>elayed and trim; Kaking spars — 'tis no battered wreck Sailing out in the distance dim. It draws not near, though the wind is fair ; The sheets are free, but it comes not nigh, But hangs, a point on the morning air, A pictured sail 'twixt the earth and sky. Fisherman, tell me why yonder boat Sails, and no nearer comes to shore; Nor in the distance grows remote — Not a ripple her bow breaks o'er. " Stranger, I reckon you aren't here long , Many a year has lier pennant flew — Old is the story — a worn out song — But her deck is trod by no mortal crew. Look a moment and see tlie flame Gleaming white over mast and spar — Herel take my glass, you can read the name Under her starn — 'tis the 'Alice Marr.' Alice Marr was a fair young girl, Long ago, in Glos'ter town ; Rippling ringlets and sunny curl. Rare red lips and a cheek of brown. That was Alice, the fisher's pride ; Lovers sought her, from near and far; She was -John Ackman's promised bride — He named his vessel the ' Alice Marr.' Thar's nothing sartin, stranger, in life; "We're gone to-morrow, though liere to-day. Anotlier v'yagc h1u> would be his wife — At least, so I've lieard tlie gossips say. Pork, potatoes and liard-tack stowed, Water in barrels and water in tanks, Nicely fixed for a three months' cruise, He sailed away for the fishing banks. ' For men must work and women must weep,' Men must work for tlieir daily bread; One month out— all well on board. Spoke by tlie ' Dart' of Marblehead, Months rolled on, and never a word ; Six mouths, twelve months — on the day That finished the year was a rumor heard Of the 'Alice Marr' in the outer bay. Boats put out, but they drew not near; Slowly, silently on she steered; 'Skipper Aekmau I hoi what cheer?' She liad vanished and disappeared. Ever as rolls tlie year around. Bringing again her sailing day. Rises her hull from the dejiths profound, And slowly cruises the outer baj'. Not a word of her master's fate, Only a glimmer of sail and spar; Not a word of her crew or mate — This is the ghost of the 'Alice Marr.' Still she watched down the peaceful bay, Still her eye scanned each gathering cloud, Years receded, and worn and gray, Her weikling dress was her f un'r'l shroud.'' This is no myth of the poet's pen. This is no mirage upon the blast. The boat i.s tliere, just the same as when Mine own eyes saw in the Sununcr past. Only the eye of faith can see, — Eyes are blinded — and this in brief — What is holden from you or me, Is seen by others who have belief. Still in tlie morning, cold and gray. Gazing afar the sea to scan. Looking out from the sheltered bay. Sec the phantuiii which haunts Cape Ann FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 103 MODEL OF TRAWLER OF I J A Trawling Trip. BY WALTER HILL. Gear Used — Porpoises — Frolic at Canso — On the FisJiing Grounds — Setting and Hauling the Trawls, and What We Find in Them — Changing Berth — An Uncommon Incident — Putting In for Bait. Let us imagine ourselves on board a trawler, well outside, and shaping a course E j4 S for Cape Sable, a distance of two hundred and fifteen miles. The lines which compose a trawl are made of cotton, and are in lengths of fifty fathoms, about the size of a lead pencil, and tarred to render them more durable. They are attached at equal distances to a buoy line, and are coiled in tubs or flour barrels cut down, and extend to about three hundred fathoms for each tub. Each dory will "set" about four to six tubs, so that it forms a pretty long string when extended in one direction. For halibut catching the hooks are attached at a distance of two and a half fathoms apart throughout the whole length of the trawl, but for codfishing the hooks are placed a fathom apart. The fishing is done in dories, and two men go in each dory. Our vessel's crew consists of fourteen all told — twelve men, cook, and "skipper" or captain. Much gear is necessary besides the trawl itself, viz., buoys, buoy-lines, anchors, flags, etc. But you will get a better idea of all this when we come to "make a set," by accompanying one of the dories yourself. 104 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Meanwhile, take a look at the hold. It is divided off into pens or com- partments, in which is stowed the salt necessary to cure the fish. \\\ a fresh halibut catcher these pens would be stowed with ice instead of salt. Now just step on deck again. Here is something that will interest you. Do you see that splashing far away on the horizon ? That is a school of porpoises, and they are coming this way. I'll take the harpoon and go out on the bowsprit, and should they cross our bows, try my luck. I'm not very expert with this weapon, but it may serve to kill time agreeably, if not a porpoise. Here they come, launching themselves along with dazzling ra- pidity. One might call them the very incarnation of vitality and action. I sometimes think, when I see them evidently enjoying life so intensely- launching themselves through the air by those magnificent twenty and thirty feet bounds — chasing and racing one another with lightning action — that it is their way of expressing their gratitude for being permitted to inhabit such a beautiful world of waters, and for being so admirably adapted to enjoy it. Whang! I missed that one! Quick! haul in the slack line and give me out the harpoon again. We are in the midst of the school now. Whiz I again. I've struck one this time. Pay out the slack line and heave the helm down ! Don't check him till the vessel's way is stopped, or he will snap the line. Now you may try him. There he comes alongside, disput- ing every inch and making some wicked plunges. We will get a running bowline over his tail and haul him aboard. There he comes in. How he lashes the deck, every nerve quivering with rage and excitement. The breeze has freshened.. We have left Cape Sable behind and are booming along the Nova Scotia shore at a good rate. We shall soon be in Canso, where we shall probably take what bait we require. The bait this time will consist of herring. These are taken by the resident fishermen, in nets, and brought alongside the vessel and sold at so much per hundred or barrel. It is more exciting work when we catch our own bait, especially if that bait happens to be squid. I shall not say much of the inevitable "frolic" we get upon the night before leaving for the Banks. What pretty girls we — ^get introduced to. And here, lest the better-halves of the married portion of my compagnons de voyage should become jealous, let me say that / saw no improper flirta- tions going on on their part. Not one of the benedicts under my eye danced more than twice with the same young lady. An old familiar, just dropped in, suggests I might possibly myself have been too much engrossed to ob- serve all that was passing around me. It is a base insinuation, and were he not a privileged character I should freezingly point him to the door. Leaving all these open questions behind, let us consider ourselves on the fishing grounds. Having decided on making a set, we round to and anchor in about forty fathoms of water. The hooks being baited up and all read}', FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 105 the dories are rigged out and the tubs of trawl, buoys, buoy-!ines, anchors, etc., are put into them. /\.s each dory gets ready she is rowed out in her regular place, which has been drawn for by lot, and the work of setting the trawls commences. Each takes a different direction from the vessel. Thus the vessel forms the centre and the trawls form radii of a circle, being set with a buoy and anchor at each end. A good flag is placed on the buoy at the outer end, which extends about a mile and a half from the vessel, and the dories then row aboard, and the trawls are left out till the following morning. At daylight all hands are called out to breakfast, immediately after which the dories are hoisted out, and row to the ends of their trawls, being guided by the flags when it is clear ; but when it is thick and foggy, which most frequently happens, finding the outer buoy is a matter of much difficulty, and the dories frequently lose themselves. However, being clear, it is all plane sailing to-day. There is some rivalry between the dories, as to which one shall bring most the fish or get done first ; but as the reader is to ac- company us, we will proceed leisurely so as to examine all the curios that come up. We've taken hold of the buoy, then, and having shipped the roller in the bows, commence hauling away. At last the anchor heaves in sight, after what you think a long haul, and here on the first hook is a good codfish, but I don't see much, more coming along. There, again, is a haddock. Take notice of those teeth-marks about him. A halibut has been endeavor- ing to swallow him. See what a scared look he has ! When hauling trawls I sometimes liken the expression of different fish to their counterparts on terra-firma. Thus, the haddock bears a strong resemblance to the sheep or lamb. Their large innocent eyes seem to look up appealingly as they come up alongside the dory. They accept their fate, too, with sheepish resigna- tion, and scarcely ever stir after being slatted oft" the hook into the dory. They are the prey of almost every other fish that swims, and altogether, must have a very hot time of it, indeed, down there. What have we coming here? A rock which is perfectly honey-combed — - " Porforated sore and drilled with holes." This work is accomplished by a species of boring bivalve, whose generic name I am unable to give, but if you could descend and take a submarine stroll, you would scarcely find a rock but was in the same state wherever these curious fellows are found. Curled into some of these holes, and clus- tered around the rock, in fantastic shapes, you observe numerous sandy tubes. These are inhabited by curious worms, known to the naturalist as annelids. They are widely distributed all over the fishing banks, wherever the bottom can be made available for building; their cells. There are vari- io6 FIS HE J^ MEN'S OWN BOOK. ous species. One kind does not build a cell at all, and is known as the naked annelid. But stop! I feel a halibut tugging away below. There he heaves in sight. Keep steady in the dory while I get my gaff in his head, and do not be alarmed when I heel the crank little craft over to take the big fellow in. After I get his head on the gunwale he slides into the bottom of the boat as easily as if he were helping himself in. I can see two or three codfish coming along next. One of them is a large one. Look how lazily that fifty-pounder rolls up alongside. He seems to accept the situation as if he had been expecting it. If he could speak he might give mouth (what a mouth !) to the following: " Here I come. Whip out your gaff and help me aboard without any fuss. I've been looking for this a long time past. I put all my affairs in order when I reached forty pounds weight, and have been ready to fulfil my destiny at any time since." How differently does that "snapper," or young codfish, appear to act. He darts about, as far as the hook will allow, and seems to have vitality enough for a dozen years to come. After he is unhooked he flutters about and won't be resigned. in any place, but seems to protest to the last against the fate which cuts him off in the pride of his youth. And who can believe but his view is the soundest, if it were practicable to let him alone? But what have we here? As I live, it's a turbot. You will make a deli- cious meal from this fellow, I'll warrant. We do not save them for market, there being apparently little demand for them in the States. If I were a gourmand, and had the means wherewith to gratify my appetite, I would offer his weight in silver for one of these paragons of all that is delicate and rich among fish flavors. Passing over numerous codfish, and an occasional halibut, we haul along till we come to a comparative stranger on the Grand Bank — would that he had been a stranger on Georges and some other Banks I've fished on — a dogfish. If you would cultivate angelic patience, or haply sound the depth of wickedness to which it would be possible to goad you, go out on Western Georges in Dog(fish) days and haul a trawl of one thousand hooks with a dogfish on every hook. Whichever course you adopt, if you succeed in fighting it out on that line to the end, will have brought you to the extreme limits of goodness, or to the border of Hades. Their skin is so rough that before you have unhooked fifty the probability is that your thumb and finger will be getting raw, to say nothing of the dexterity with which the green- eyed wretch comes back after having his jaw hauled half out with the hook, and swims around as if to intimate that you have been exhausting your pa- tience or your passion on him without disturbing his equilibrium in the least. The trawl is coming up from a ledge now, as you may see by the pretty FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK 107 diminutiv'e sprays of coral attached to some of tlie hooks. You will observe four or five varieties, but I have never yet been fortunate enough to haul up any of the kind valuable in commerce. Here's a queer looking object coming — a fish skeleton. It is a codfish with nothing but the skin and bones left. He has been eaten since he got on that hook, as clean as a whistle, not a grain of fiesh left if you'd give a guinea for it. Little insects that we call sand-fleas have accomplished this. There must be myriads of them, because in a couple of hours they will reduce a large codfish to the state in which we find this one, or, speaking mathematically, to his simplest terms. The fish, poor fellow, must feel very much like Gulliver when attacked by the Lilliputian army. They're too many for him. Thus we go on to the end of the trawl, where we "break out" the anchor and haul it up, together with the buoy-line and buoy, rowing to the vessel and pitching our fish on deck. These we "dress down," and as the aggre- gate catch is not large, we heave up the anchor and shift a few miles away where we "bring to" again, bait up the trawls, and then are done for the night, "till daylight doth appear." This time we get better fishing, and all the dories get a load. Sometimes an uncommon incident takes place. Such an one happened to the writer a short time since. We were in our dory, hauling away in the most unsuspecting manner, when a whale, without the slightest previous notice, came right up under the dory, gave a snort which startled us as though it had been an earthquake, and in a moment we were sliding ofif the back of the monster, half capsized. Luckily we both managed to grab the upper gunwale, and saved her from going wholly over, coming off with no worse damage than being swamped with water and losing half our fish. On foggy days a horn is blown at frequent intervals during the time the dories are hauling trawls, to enable them to judge of the whereabouts of the vessel. But withal, dories frequently lose themselves and row about for many hours without finding their vessels, and in such cases they are often picked up by passing vessels, after enduring great privations. Many a thrilling story might be told of narrow escapes from perils such as these, by our fishermen who follow up Bank fishing continuously. When the bait gets exhausted, or becomes too stale for the fish to relish it, we proceed to Newfoundland to procure another supply. On such occa- sions we sometimes have many leisure days, and to beguile time we arrange a dance on shore, which is kept up from dark till daylight. io8 FISHERMEJSrS OWN BOOK. MASSACHUSETTS MACKEREL CATCH FOR 74 YEARS. Massachu- Mass. Gloucester Eockport setts. Gloucester. YEAR. YEAR. Inspection. Inspection. Inspection. BBL8. BBLS. BBLS. BIJLS. BBLS. 1808 7,738 238 1845 202,302 48,711 1809 8,865 46 1846 188.261 41,513 1810 13,058 none 1847 2.54,917 40.006 1811 17,890 6 1848 317.101 53.500 1812 6,750 none 1849 231.8.56 45.579 1813 3,832 !tl 1850 242,572 49.993 3,916 1814 1,349 none 1851 329.441 81,()27 9.240 1815 16,394 72 1852 217.540 4S.012 5,345 1816 . 30.021 123 1853 130.423 36.196 4,523 1817 37.482 115 1854 1.34.S48 43,201 3,278 1818 47,210 154 1855 130..S50 73.102 5,740 1819 105.433 109 1856 214,017 6(i..")29 6,513 1820 120.602 217 1857 192.378 67.311 5,677 1821 111.009 2,176 1858 131. (iOl 5().4S!» 4,152 1822 150.294 2.S04 1859 99.,S45 ,59.664 3.0O4 1823 145,006 3.570 1860 244,703 97,992 5,-561 1824 180.636 6,303 1861 194.281 90.516 4,989 1825 254,381 9,359 1862 260 .KG3 116.238 6,100 1826 15S,740 11,668 1863 306.941 1.53,S92 5,671 1827 190.310 16,288 1864 273,3.55 154.938 4,970 1828 237,324 34,203 1865 252,775 141,576 5,746 1829 225,877 37,683 1866 231,390 114,053 7,562 1830 308,485 51.613 1867 210.712 113,917 6,479 1831 383,658 69,759 1868 179.492 75,517 5,260 1832 222,452 40,()74 1869 2.34,199 93,]2(i 5,!)(;2 1833 222.926 45,529 1870 31.S.520 ]2i)..5!)5 9,S00 1834 252.884 61.319 1871 2.-)9,414 107,008 6,940 1835 197,411 48.539 1872 l.Sl.!).-)6 (i7,;!!l5 3,()79 1836 177,056 43.937 1873 185.736 83,459 3,084 1.837 144,891 33.274 1874 258.:^>9 118,314 4.124 1838 110.740 24.2(i2 1875 130.017 51,040 1,742 1839 74.243 10,241 1S76 225.946 95,422 5,(il0 1840 50,490 8,,S70 1877 105.0<»7 49,044 1.478 1S41 55.137 8.559 1878 144.226 .55,741 975 1842 75.543 15.335 1879 1.55.298 4K,(;43 172 1,S43 64,451 16,328 1880 252,538 116,793 959 1844 86,181 17,455 1881 256,173 113,203 291 Owing to the practice of selling mackerel " out of pickle," to be packed and branded else- where, the Gloucester "inspection" for the past few years shows only a portion of the catch of our licet. The catch of the Gloucester fleet in 1881 was 163,851 bbls., the amount inspected only 113,203 bbls. 1880 catch, 129,680 bbls. Sfi^^SPs^ FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 109 The Fortune Bay Riot. The treaty of Washington opened the way to a satisfactory settlement of the Alabama Claims, so far as this country was concerned, Great Britain being called upon to pay over a handsome sum for the depredations of her cruisers upon American commerce during the War of the Rebellion. But the Treaty contained provisions concerning the Fisheries which have not resulted as satisfactorily, either to our own government or to the dependen- cies of Great Britain. Under these provisions the American market was thrown open to the products of provincial fishermen, free of duty, thus bringing their catch into active competition with ours, while American fish- ermen were permitted to fish in provincial waters, on equal terms with Brit- ish subjects, as they claim to their great detriment and loss. The Fishery provisons of the Treaty also contained a clause providing for a Commission, to sit at Halifax, and determine how much, if anything, the United States should pay for the valuable privileges vouchsafed her fishermen, over and above the value of the freedom of her markets to provincial-caught fish. The Commission met and heard evidence on both sides, and decided that the United States should pay the sum of $5,500,000, an amount, as the Americans claim and believe, larger than the total value of all the fish taken or to be taken by American fishermen within provincial waters during the twelve years that the Treaty is likely to remain in force. The money was, however, paid without controversy. The fishermen of Newfoundland were especially restive under what they regarded as the ceding away of their rights by the imperial government. They looked upon the shore herring fishery of their island as peculiarly their own property. It was their principal source of revenue, on which themselves and their families were dependent for bread, and if this fishery was taken away from them, or its value destroyed, starvation would stare them in the face. Accordingly, when a large American fleet appeared upon their coast, in the Winter of 1877-8, with improved apparatus for the catch- ing of herring, instead of purchasing a supply of the native fishermen, as had previously been the practice, they were greatly incensed, and resolved to defend what they felt to be their rights. The Gloucester fleet arrived in Fortune Bay about the middle of Decem- ber, and waited until the first week in January for the herring to strike in. They were provided with seines, and prepared to catch or buy fish, as cir- cumstances might warrant. The fleet comprised twenty-two first-class ves- sels, as follows : no FISHERMEN'S O WN BOOK. Schooner. Bonanza, Bunker Hill, Charles C. Warren, Crest of the Wave, Edward E. Webster, F. A. Smith, Fred. P. Frye, Herbert M. Rogers, Hereward, Isaac Rich, John W. Bray, Lizzie & Namari, Mary M., Maud & Effie, Maud B. Wetherell, Moro Castle, Moses Adams, Moses Knowlton, New England, Ontario, Wildfire, William E. McDonald, Tons. 137.06 100.77 108.87 71-38 98.80 77.10 85-37 77-65 90.1 1 92.18 83.41 94.09 101.62 85-23 107.90 88.85 90.87 II 1. 00 86.29 91.29 108.90 Oumer or Chirterer. Humphrey C. Allen. Walen & Allen. Peter Smith. William B. Coombs. Dennis & Ayer. Plumer and Friend. Brown, Seavey & Co. Rowe & Jordan. James Mansfield & Sons. Walen & Allen. John F. Wonson «Sz: Co. John Y. Wonson &: Co. Brown, Seavey & Co. Gardner and Poole. George Dennis & Co. Hardy & Allen. Samuel Lane & Bro. John Low. John Pew & Son. John Pew & Son. Andrew Leighton. ' Wm. Parsons, 2d, &: Co. 98-37 The herring struck into Fortune Bay on Sunday, Jan. 6, 1878, in such quantities that a few hours' seining would have sufficed to load the entire fleet. The schs. New England, Capt. Peter McAuley, and Ontario, Capt. John Dago, joined and set their seines, making a double seine about 2,400 feet long and 150 feet deep, which soon filled with herring, the catch being estimated at fully 2,000 barrels. This, with the operations of the other Gloucester schooners, maddened the Newfoundland fishermen, who had gathered in the vicinity to the number of two hundred or more, and they commenced to put off in boats, making warlike demonstrations and using threatening language, and commanding the American fishermen to desist from fishing. The seines of the O itario and Nciu England were seized by tlie mob, the fish let out, and the seines torn in pieces and carried away. The rioters next turned their attention to the sch. Moses Adams, Capt. Solomon Jacobs, whose seine had been set and filled, and whose crew were busily engaged in scooping the herring into boats and transferring them to their vessel. Three separate attempts were made to seize this seine, but Capt. Jacobs and his crew were provided with loaded revolvers, and by threatening to shoot the first man who dared to interfere with them, suc- ceeded in keeping the mob at bay until a partial cargo had been secured, when the Newfoundlanders tripped the seine and allowed the remainder of the herring to escape. Had they been allowed to continue fishing, they could have loaded their vessel and helped in supplying others. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. in In the evening the rioters had a jubilee, blowing horns, firing guns and shouting, as if celebrating a victory. This was taken as an indication that the same course would be pursued if further attempts were made to fish, and the other vessels were deterred from making the attempt. Next day the herring struck off shore, and finding it difficult to purchase cargoes, the fleet soon set sail for home, mostly in ballast, although a portion of the fleet se- cured partial cargoes, mostly by purchase. The following year (1879), in July, a similar occurrence on a smaller scale took place in Aspey Bay, Cape Breton. The schs. Bay State, Capt. Good- win, and Cadet, Capt. Anderson, arrived at Aspey Bay June 20, to await the schooling of the squid, when they proposed to engage in seining operations. They were told by the inhabitants that they would not be allowed to set their seines, but continued to await the appearance of the fish, hoping that they would not be interfered with. The squid struck in July 8th, but the threats of the local fishermen were so serious and determined that the Americans were obliged to refrain from fishing and come home without fares. Aug. 16, 1879, sch. Howard Holbrook, Capt. Daniel McFayden, of this port, while absent on a Bank trip, put into Trinity Bay, N. F., for the pur- pose of seining bait. Capt. McFayden was opposed by some thirty New- foundlanders, who threatened to destroy his seine and dories if he attempted to fish, the spokesman of the party, one Cooper, declaring that no one should set a seine for squid within three miles of the shore and live to haul it. On the 4th of August, 1880, as the sch. Mora Castle, Capt. Loren B. Nass, of this port, was lying in Conception Bay for the purpose of purchasing squid to complete a Bank voyage, some of the crew threw over jigs and com- menced to catch a few squid over the side of the vessel during the absence of the skipper. They were seen from the shore, and an angry crowd of na- tive fishermen put off, seized the schooner, raised her anchor, hoisted the mainsail and jib, and came near getting her ashore upon the rocks. Seeing the danger she was in, the mob took their departure, leaving the vessel in the hands of the crew. The sch. Victor, Capt. Joseph Bowie, was also compelled by superior numbers to relinquish fishing for squid, at the same time, under threats of having the cable cut, allowing the schooner to drift on the rocks. Efforts were also made, on two occasions in August, to pre- vent sch. Martha C, Capt. Charles Martin, from taking squid, but Capt. Martin put a bold face on the matter, returning threat for threat, and took what squid he wanted without molestation. Sch. Minnesota, of Provincetown, was also prevented from taking bait in the Summer of 1880. At this time negotiations were in progress to secure indemnity for the outrages upon American fishermen, with a prospect of Newfoundland having to pay the bills, and the local authorities felt that it was time something was done to show that such lawlessness was not sane- 112 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. tioned by those in authority. Accordingly, y?z',? j)'..50 1,902.00 2,077.00 1 ,430.56 Charles C. Warren, 4,(110.00 2,430.00 4,080.00 2, .501. 50 Crest of the Wave, 2.(il0.04 4,019.04 3,077.37 EihvanI K. Welrster, 1,754..50 4,054.50 2,001.44 F. A. Sniitli, 2,4it5.50 4,895.50 2,932.21 Fred. V. Frye, 2,1.50.00 450.00 3,700.00 1,997.50 IIerl>ert M. Rogers, 3,0r,fi.lS 1,120.00 5,870.30 2.180.70 Ilereward, 4.300.00 502.00 5,74s.00 4,392.15 Isaac I{ieh, 2,!»S().09 1,S3(;.00 2,491.09 1,-351.36 John W. Hray, 2,714.52 1,-525.45 3.5S0.07 1,397.16 IJ/zie Si \aniari. 3,13:!.(!5 5(i9.25 5,5(!4.40 3.013.17 Mary M., 2,1S0.53 200.00 5,4S0.53 3,327.12 Maud \- Ktlie, 3.333.13 954.00 4. 37!). 13 2,795.48 Maud ]{. Wetlierell, 3,7!>7..S4 2,007.50 2,530.:U 2.033.15 ]M()r.) Castle, 2,153.18 4.131.19 2.529.99 IMfises Adams, 2.(i07.30 1,021.25 8..5S(!.05 1,S63.60 Moses Knowltcm, 2,(101.00 305.00 5,350.(i0 2,769.00 New ICngland, 3,3.50.00 2,722.18 Ontario, 3,a50.00 2,995,74 Wildlin-. 1 ,5.30.07 0,309.82 1,798.89 William K. M.;Donald, 2,1.53.05 4,953.95 2,530.89 FISHERMEA 'S O WN BOOK. 113 ^?T^Z_ Importance of Fish Culture. Day after day this wonderful enterprise is meeting with greater and great- er encouragement. The fact of reproducing fish artificially is based upon the practical experiences of a Frenchman nearly a century ago, and although its success proved largely beyond his expectations, the world remained, as many people do to-day, skeptical as to the feasibility of the experiments _ As in all other important events discovered by accident, science was essen. tial to the thorough illustration in the matter of fish culture. The advances made within the last half century are simply bewildering. The brook trout was first propagated by artificial means ; now even salt-water fishes, includ- ing lobsters and oysters, are destined to yield to the manipulation of man, and have their number increased beyond the limits of calculation. Necessity, the admitted mother of invention, should have prompted the European scientists to make the greatest efforts, yet the facts are, it is to those of our young republic to whom the honors have been awarded for the great work, though surrounded by an abundance. Under the skilful direc- tion of Prof. S. F. Baird, the world renowned Seth Green, and others, the propagation of fish and inventions pertaining thereto, have won for these gentlemen notoriety unequalled by any pisciculturists of the world. Hatch- eries, transporting implements, acclimatizing of fish, fishways, and the like, have been perfected in the United States to such a degree that the European Fish Congress held a year ago in Germany awarded their most valuable prizes to gentlemen of our country. The State Fish Commissioners have 114 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. seconded their national official brethren by untiring energy and skill, which brings them under honorable notice by their colabarateurs abroad. The McDonald tishway is a monument which will perpetuate the name of its inventor. Eugene Blackford of New York has his name engraved upon the historical records of fish, with the Lntjanus blackfordii ; so might be enum- erated every one of these gentlemen who, without other consideration than the true manly sense of duty, have labored to protect and increase the fish supply of our country. Prof. Geek of VVurzburg, German}', a noted scien- tist, is now conij^iling a book upon this interesting subject, and has wisely placed himself in correspondence with our National and State Fish Commis- sioners with a view of getting reliable data and information which has been derived from their relative experiences. This is one of many instances com- plimentary to American fish culturists, but when their present efforts will have been matured by material results, more of them will come pouring in. Much has yet to be done to develop the plans of increased fish culture. The legislatures of the several States must make liberal appropriations, the people are to be educated to the importance of the enterprise, and then the whole world will marvel at what has and can be done. Oysters, which form so large a part of our food supply, must be artificially propagated. Scientists are already occupying themselves about it, and one or two have even devised apparatus for testing the subject. When this is made practi- cable, with what is being done towards the increase in the supply of fish, a fund of wealth will have been opened far greater than the gold fields of Australia or California. Only a few years ago German carp were introduced into the United States, yet at present their produce would represent edible fish to the extent of many tons. In less than ten years the whole country will be stocked with them. This will materially lessen the existing vandal- ism practiced in our lakes and streams, consequently assisting nature in the increase of fish in them. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 115 The Fisheries in the Olden Time. BY W. E. S. Upon visiting old Gloucester, my native place, recently, I was forcibly reminded, by way of contrast, of the ways and means by which the business was carried on in the years long, long ago, the days of our fathers and grandfathers, and even down to the time of my own boyhood's remembrance. The Grand Bank cod fishery was considered the "heavy business" in these old days. This was varied somewhat by occasional trips to Labrador, Bay Chaleur, etc. The pursuit of mackerel as a specialty had then hardly com- menced, and the curing and smoking of halibut for the trade was unknown. The crews of the Bankers would sometimes bring home a few fletched for family use, that were cured in the smoke of the cabin. Fitting away for the Banks was usually attended to along in March, and during April they were well on their way to their destination. Two trips, or fares, generally occupied the season ; a Fall fare was sometimes under- taken, but for this the chances were not considered favorable, by reason of bad weather for fishing and the equinoctial gales. The "old salts" would sometimes tell of intending to partake of their Christmas dinner before get- ting up anchor for home ; but I think that this feat was never accomplished, at any rate, " hardly ever." It was the custom to keep count of the number of fish caught, and a fare of thirty to forty thousand, or enough to "eat all their salt," was considered fair luck. An expert could estimate very nearly the amount a given num- ber of fish would weigh off when thoroughly cured. The fish were all caught "over the rail." I remember of hearing it said that French vessels were sometimes met with on the Banks, that were fish- ing with trawls. On the arrival of a Banker the first move was to ascertain the number of fish caught, by hailing from the rocks back of the old Fort, and after coming to anchor in the inner harbor commenced the "washino- out." The "pound," a frame, or raft of timber, loosely boarded over and around the sides, was made fast alongside ; into this the fish were thrown, and the pickle and undissolved salt washed off, thence taken to the shore in boats, they were piled in "water house" upon a stratum of brush, shav- ings, etc. After remaining in this condition a week or more, to allow the superfluous moisture to drain off, they were transferred to the flakes, where, with careful tending, they were cured and thoroughly dried for market, for- eign or domestic. ii6 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. For shipment to the West Indies, the Spanish main and other foreign ports, the fish were packed, under a powerful screw pressure, in large casks, made for the purpose, known as fish hogsheads. There were times after the close of our Revolution, and while Europe was involved in Napoleon's wars, that fish found a ready market and a high price on the continent. They were in great demand for army supplies. I have heard of fish being sold there at such times, for a French crown ($i.io) apiece. The fishing vessels were sometimes employed in Winter voyages to for- eign ports, carrying the proceeds of their Summer's work, returning with cargoes of foreign produce and money. Many of the fishermen would ship for their Winter's voyage, and thus employ their time for the year round. I have heard Uncle Sam Day, a veteran hand-liner, tell of going to the Banks in the Spring and Summer, working awliile at shoemaking in the Fall, and going a "wige" to Bilboa in the Winter. It was thus, that in ad- dition to their fishing experience, they became expert and able seamen, that could "hand, reef and steer" on board a man-of-war, with the same facility as they could haul a line over the rail. The sturdy fishermen of Glouces- ter, Beverly, Marblehead, and all along shore, have been well represented in our navy in the time of their country's need. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 117 Salmon Fishing at the Month of the Columbia River, Oregon. The season of the sahiion fisheries of the Columbia river commences in April, and is over by the end of Jul3^ The fish are taken in tide-water by nets and traps, in immense quantities, as they ascend the river fresh from the ocean. They are cured fresh, in one and two pound cans, and cured by pickle in barrels and half-barrels. The Columbia salmon is very fat, and of peculiarly fine flavor. Salmon fishing is also carried on at the mouths of the Rogue, Umpqua, Coquille, and Nehalem rivers, where the catches, however, serve principally to supply the home consumption. The salmon pack on the Pacific coast during the past season, 188 1, has been the largest ever known. The following, from the San Francisco Journal of Commerce, are the particulars : Columbia River, 540,000 cases ; Sacramento River (Spring), 140,000 do.; Sacramento River (Fall), 40,000 do.; Fraser River, 110,000 do.; miscellaneous — outside rivers, 30,000 do.; total, 860,000 cases. The total pack for the past four years has been as follows : 1881, 860,000 cases; 1880, 679,495 do.; 1879, 539,600 do.; 187S, 638,000 do. It is thus seen that 188 1 leaves all other years far in the shade, being nearly 27 per cent, higher than that of 1880, the greatest previous year. The first white men, as we learn from the "Astorian," who fished in the Columbia river to the extent of making a business of it, were Italians, who. ii8 FISHERMEN'S O WN BOOK. supplied the little market demand at Portland during the run, and salted down a few kegs for Winter use. In 1864 Mr. William Hume, a practical fisherman, started a cannery on the Sacramento river, California, and did a profitable business, but hearing that the Chinock or Columbia river salmon were of better quality than the fish of the Sacramento, came up in the Spring of 1866 to investigate. He at once secured a site at Eagle Cliff, on the Washington Territory side of the river, put up a small building, brought appliances and skilled men from his establishment on the Sacramento, and that season — 1866 — put up 4,000 cases of four dozen one-pound cans each. In this work he employed forty persons, ten of whom were fishermen. His success in catching and packing the fish, and his subsequent profitable sale of the pack, encouraged him and his partner (Mr. Hapgood, of California,) to double their facilities, and the next season they put up 8, 000 cases. In 1867 George W. Hume, who had been a sharer in the original venture, drew out and put up a cannery of his own, packing 10,000 cases. The next year William Hume and Hapgood and George Hume continued in the business, and Capt. John West, of Westport, put up a cannery, the total pack of the three establishments being 28,000 cases. The next season R. D. Hume, brother of William and George, set up a cannery at Cathlamet, and from that year — 1869 — the business has grown rapidly until now, when salmon packing is the largest industry, save wheat growing, in the Northwest, when more salmon is put up on the Columbia river than in all other localities in the world. The following table, showing the number of cases packed each year, the corresponding price of canned salmon, and the cost of fish on the river, will ■illustrate the progress and changes which sixteen years have made : Year. Total Product. Price. Cost of Fish. i866 4,000 $16.00 15 cents. 1867 l8,OQO 13.00 IS 1868 28,000 12.00 20 1869 100,000 10.00 20 1870 150,000 9.00 20 J871 200,000 7-50 22>^ J872 250,000 8.00 25 1873 250,000 7.00 25 1874 350,000 6.50 25 1875 375.000 5.60 25 1876 450,000 4-50 25 18,77 460,000 5.20 25 1878 460,000 5.00 25 1879 480,000 4.60 50 1880 530,000 4.80 50 1881 550,000 5 00 60 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 119 Between Cape Disappointment and the Cascades there are thirty five can- ning establishments and more than a dozen fishing stations. At each of these points there are houses of various kinds, canneries filled with expen- sive appliances, etc., etc. Ten steamboats and tugs, owned by the canners, run as tenders, and one large boat is run during the season by the O. R. & N. Co., merely to carry fish. There are 1,400 fishing boats and nets on the river. The total value of all property engaged in the salmon business is above $2,000,000, the largest individual interest being that of William Hume, $150,000. Fishing boats cost $250 each, and nets from $300 to $400 each. A boat will last ten years with ordinary usage. The boats are of Port Orford cedar and oak, with copper fastenings, and are made by builders at Astoria. Formerly all boats were made at San Francisco, but the Astoria merchants do better and cheaper work, and so have monopolized the business. More than fifty boats were built here this Summer. They are generally 24 feet long, 26 inches deep, and 6 feet 6 inches beam, sharp at both ends, narrowly decked on the ends and sides, furnished with center- boards, and can be rowed or sailed, as the winds serve. They are magnifi- cent sea boats, run easily, and will carry about four tons. The number of men directly employed in the fishing business during the busy season is about 7,500, of whom 4,000 are Chinese. It is impossible to give exact figures, because the figures continually change, but these esti- mates are based upon careful inquiry, and are approximately correct. In the actual work of fishing about 2,500 white men were engaged from April I to August I — four months. Half of these are masters of boats and the other half assistants or pullers. Independent fishermen who own their boats and nets and sell their catch to the canneries, receive 60 or 62 J-^ cents per fish. As a rule, however, the canneries own the outfits, for the use of which the fisherman gives one-third of his catch, receiving only 40 cents per fish from the cannery. Each fisherman employs and makes terms with his own boat puller, the usual rate for this service being a share in the catch, about the equivalent of $70 per month. One hundred dollars per month, after charges for boat and net and pay of boat puller are deducted, is considered only a fair return to the fisherman, and the average is rather above than below this estimate. Only white men engage in fishing, the greater proportion, however, being Italians, Fins, and other foreigners, men without families, who come to the river from San Francisco only during the fishing season. In the canneries all the responsible places are filled by white men, whose pay ranges from $50 to $150 per month, the average being about $65. About one thousand men are so employed. The greater part of the inside work is done by Chinamen, whose average pay is $1 per day and board. Four thousand are employed on the river. 120 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. On the Beach in a Storm, Is a suggestive picture, well calculated to awaken the sympathies. The women are the wives of fishermen, who are off on the waste of waters, seek- ing to make the harbor in the ^'iolence of the Summer gale. Night is fast settling down over the scene, and amid the gathering darkness the women, with hearts full of dread apprehensions, watch the little boats as they breast the waves, far out on the seething waters, ever and anon encouraging the active little fellow, who appears with his arms full of wood, to pile it on, and thus keep the fire burning brightly, as a beacon light, to guide their loved ones to safety when the night shuts down. They heed not the piercing winds, not the fury of the blasts — their hearts are out there with loved ones, and their prayer is that they may safely reach the harbor. Then, and then only, can they feel at rest. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Narrov/ Escape from Foundering. Sch. David A. Story, Capt. Joseph Ryan, left Gloucester, Nov. 12, 1880, with a favoring breeze, and had a magnificent nm, making the passage to Grand Menan, a distance of two hundred and twenty-five miles, in the re- markably short time of eighteen hours. After procuring a supply of bait she proceeded to Halifax, where she arrived on Sunday evening, and taking a supply of ice on board the next day, put to sea again on Tuesday evening, and arrived on St. Peter's Bank on Friday, the 19th. On Saturday one set of the trawls was made, the only set during the trip, and finding no fish, the vessel was got underway and moved farther to the eastward. No other op- portunity was presented to fish, as it was blowing heavily all the while, and Monday, the 2 2d, at about four o'clock in the afternoon, the schooner then having about three hundred fathoms of nine-inch cable out in ninet)^-five fathoms of water, she struck adrift. She was given another hundred fath- oms of cable, which failed to bring her up, the northwest wind blowing so furiously, and the tide running so strong, that she floated her cable and an- chor and drifted before the wind and tide. The signal lights could not be kept burning a great while at a time in such a gale, but everything was made as snug as possible, and leaving the regular watch of two men on deck, the rest of the crew retired, six being quartered in the cabin and six in the fore- castle. About half-past two o'clock on the morning of Tuesday, the 23d, finding that the cable needed parceling, one of the watch went below to call the captain, leaving only one man, Lyman Murray, on deck. Just at this time the vessel was struck by a tremendous sea, knocking her down, with her masts level in the water. Murray saw the sea coming, and running to the 122 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. leeward of the foremast, clung to the iron around the stovepipe, which was attached to the deck, where he was found insensible when the rest of the crew were able to get on deck, with his leg broken, and splinters of the shattered spars driven through his boot and into the leg. The house and forecastle companion-ways were stove, and a flood of water pouring into the cabin and forecastle prevented the egress of the men who were imprisoned there. One man succeeded in getting out of the cabin and walked along on the side of the house, holding on to the weather rail. Fortunately, in about a minute and a half the vessel wore round and righted, and the rest of the crew were released from their duress, when a scene of desolation met their gaze. In capsizing, the cable had parted, involving the loss of four hundred and fifteen fathoms thereof, with an anchor ; the fore-boom was broken into two pieces, and the fore-gaff into three, a piece of the latter being found forward of the foremast, and another portion across the bowsprit ; the signal light was in pieces at the foremast head ; the saddle and all the apparatus around the mast was destroyed ; the foresail was badly split and the riding-sail blown away ; the schooner's six dories were washed away or smashed to pieces on the deck ; and the gurry-pens and everything movable on deck was destroyed. Below, the fires and lights were extinguished by the water, all the open stores and cooking gear were destroyed, and the bedding and clothing of the crew completely soaked. As soon as possible steps were taken to clear away the wreck, two of the men setting their wounded com- panion's leg while the others were clearing the deck. An attempt was made to lay her to, which was ineffectual, as they could not balance-reef the main- sail, and she was run before the wind for about four hours. While thus running she was boarded by another, though smaller, sea, and Capt. Ryan had a narrow escape from being washed overboard, saving himself by cling- ing to a reef-point in the foresail. The weather was very severe, and with no opportunity to dry their clothes, the crew had a hard time of it for the ensuing week, while endeavoring to make a port. They arrived at Canso at noon on Wednesday, Dec. ist, where they landed their injured shipmate, and after making a few necessary repairs proceeded to Halifax, and thence home. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 123 Hammerhead Shark— The Shark's Mouth— Shark Fishina;. The above engraving illustrates a species of shark of the genus Zygccna. The head is flat with the orbits extending laterally in a most extraordinary manner, flexible and doubled on themselves in the foetus, but standing out at right angles and to a greater distance as age advances. On the end of these lateral processes are the large eyes. Appleton's Encyclopcedia states that "this strange form of head is found in no other vertebrate, and only in some dipterous insects {diopsis, 6^ar Of the scras as they broke on the Ma,^ni(>lia shore; A few minutes later, as thi-ough the water we plough. The rock shows itself upon the i)ort how. Our hearts were made light as out of dangt>r we passed. At least for the present, and were near hanu^ at last. Passing Ten Pound Island, we shockt into the cove. And do\Mi goes tlu' anchor of tlie W. II. (iove. Bight i>roud an' we of llie staunch little lx)at. Which tliiiMigh so tcrrihle a night kept us safely afloat. lA't those wlio cat fish and gi\>wl at the price, Take a ti'ii) offshoii', sliovcl snow and i>ound ice; On<' good sliiiking uj) in old Hoston Hay, And they'll ne'er more lind fault with tislicrmcu's iiay." FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 137 "^ Truthful and Startling Accounts Of Tough T/?)ies, Narroiu Escapes, Disasters, Plucky Doings, Thrilling Nar- ratives, Perilous Positions, and Other Noteworthy Happenings to the Fish- ermen While in Pursuit of Their Calling. Lost in the Fog. — Seven Days Adrift in a Dory on Grand Bank, without Food. — Two of the crew of sch. Marathon of this port, George M. Roberts of Yarmouth, N. S., and James Austin of LiveriDOol, N. S., left that vessel on Grand Bank, at half-past four on the afternoon of Oct. 7, 1874, to visit their trawls. Soon after, it commenced to breeze up and a thick fog shut in. A dory, in which were two of the crew, was paid out from the vessel to their assistance, but the warp proved too short, and the fog became so thick that they soon lost sight of each other. They could hear the shouts of their companions, but all efforts to reach them proved unavailing. It soon commenced raining, and the two men made up their minds to do the best they could through the night, in hopes to find their vessel in the morning. 138 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Fortunately there were three trawl tubs on board, and two of these were made fast to the painter of the dory, and did most excellent service as drogues, keeping her head to the sea. The night passed drearily, and they were glad enough when morning dawned ; but the fog still continued to en- velop them, and they concluded to row to the westward. It cleared up occasionally, but they saw no vessel, and night came on again. The next day was also foggy, and they laid to the drogue all day, drifting to the east- ward. Took watch and watch this night, in hopes to catch a glimpse of some light from a passing vessel, but their hopes were disappointed. It rained during the night, and they were fortunate enough to catch a good supply of water in their remaining tub ; of this they drank sparingly, and it served to appease the fearful pangs of thirst and hunger. On the third day they rowed to the northwest in hopes to get into the track of the steamers. The fog still continued, and no vessel was seen, and they passed another night in suspense. The men were by this time getting discouraged, more especially Mr. Austin, who had contracted a severe cold the first night out, and was troubled with such severe shaking of his limbs that he could not sleep. The morning of the fourth day was clear, and it continued moderate through the day. This gave them courage, and although quite weak, they rowed to the westward, keeping an anxious lookout for some welcome sail, and doing their best to keep up each other's courage. A shark came along- side during the day, and they endeavored to catch him, as they would gladly have partaken of anything eatable, but were unsuccessful. When the sun went down that night, the poor fellows felt their hearts sink within them, and they thought their chances of being picked up were rather slim. Roberts was enabled to pass some of the weary hours in sleep, but this boon, for the most part, was denied his companion. The fifth day was fogg)', and they rowed a couple of hours, but felt so used up that they gave up pulling, and another dreary night dragged its slow hours along. The sixth day they let the dory drift. Saw the sun once or twice, but no signs of any vessel ; and the night shut down again, bringing sad forebodings. The seventh day was foggy, yet, strange to say, their courage again revived. They had drank sparingly of the water, and it seemed to satisfy the hungry feeling to a great extent, and rowing some three miles to the northward, they put the tubs out and let the dory drift. Their longings to be rescued from that open boat can be imagined but not described. The sun went down for the eighth time, and still no signs of relief. They watched eagerly through the early evening hours, and knew full well they could not hold out a great while longer. They talked of their chances as men will talk when in the face of a common danger, and both were of opinion that they could not survive another twenty-four hours. They then lay down, and both men, in the silent depths of their hearts, FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 139 prayed most fervently that they might be picked up before morning. Soon after, Roberts thought he heard the noise of a steamer, and raised his head above the side of the dory. Joy unspeakable ! there were a steamer's lights not fifty yards distant. The dory had been seen from her deck, and the shouts of the men were soon answered, Roberts was enabled to get on board without help, but it required the assistance of two of the steamer's crew to get Austin on board. It proved to be the ocean steamer Greece, and the men were kindly cared for by her captain and officers, and by care- ful nursing were well nigh recovered upon her arrival in New York. Upon leaving the steamer the men were presented with twenty dollars each, a gift from her officers and passengers. A very singular circumstance connected with this afifair is, that at nine o'clock that evening the Captain of the steamer altered his course half a point to the northward. If he had not done so, he would have gone so far to the southward as not to have seen the dory, and in all probability the two men would have perished. A kind Providence had ordered it other- wise, their prayers were heard, and from the dangers which surrounded them they were returned to their friends. Remarkable Circumstances. — In July, 1873, John Como, one of the crew of sch. Magic of this port, caught a small halibut on the Bank, on ■which he took a notion to cut his initials, and threw the fish overboard, not expecting to see him again. In 1874 he shipped in sch. Mary E. Daniels, and while hauling his trawl on Grand Bank, discovered, to his great sur- prise, the identical halibut he had marked some eight months before. The halibut was on exhibition at the wharf of the New England Fish Company. The initials were plainly discernible, although the fish had grown consider- ably since they were cut. This is no fish story, but a veritable fact, and the circumstance is certainly a most remarkable one. Among the halibut landed by sch. Chester R. Laivrence, in May, 1875, was one with the name "Lynch" cut thereon. The halibut had grown consid- erably since the carving operation, which from the appearance of the scars had been done about a year. The letters were some six inches in length and very clearly defined. In February, 1876, while dressing fish at the Gloucester Fish Company's wharf, a plain gold ring was taken from the paunch of a codfish. It was brought to the "Cape Ann Advertiser" sanctum by Mr. William E. Ansell, and had the appearance of having been in the keeping of the fish for some time. The mark 18 K, signifying the quality of the gold, was plainly dis- cernible on the inside of the ring. The query is, how came the fish in pos- session of it, and who was the owner ? In March, 1877, George Harvey, one of the crew of sch. Rebecca Bartktt I40 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. of this port, on her trip to Georges, hauled up a codfish, which upon being dressed, there was found in the paunch a wallet in a fair state of preserva- tion. Unfortunately for the fisherman, there was no money in it ; but there was an old letter and a horse-car ticket. The writing on the letter was so badly obliterated that it could not be read, therefore no clue as to the owner of the wallet could be obtained. In January, 1880, sch. Bessie W. Somes, Capt. Hodgdon, from the Iianks, brought in a twenty-pound halibut, in the skin of which were plainly visible the initials and date, "W. E. McD., 1877." It is supposed that when a young fellow he visited the sch. WiUlani E. McDonald^ and was set at lib- erty bearing the above inscription. Getting a Trip Under Difficulties. — Sch. Knight Temflar, Capt. Michael McDonald, which arrived from Grand Bank Feb. 20, 1874, had a tough time of it ; but the plucky captain was determined to get a trip, and he did so, bringing in 40,000 pounds of halibut, which stocked $4,000. He left port Jan. 10 and arrived on Western Bank the 13th, where they encoun- tered a severe gale and broke the main-boom. Finding fish scarce, he de- termined to go to the Grand Bank. Most of the crew didn't relish sailing a thousand miles from home with a broken main-boom ; but the captain was inflexible, and they started with a ten-knot breeze, under a foresail only. On the iDassage the foresail jibed over, breaking the gaff. Arriving on the Bank the 20th, they set their trawls. A severe gale came on in the night, when the vessel shipped a sea and smashed all the dories. This was another stroke of ill luck, as what was the use of the trawls without any dories in which to get them "! Capt. McDonald, however, was not the man to be dis- heartened. He had come for a trip of fish, and a trip he was going to have, if within the power of mortal man to get it. Taking the remains of one of the dories he used it to repair the others. Unfortunately he had no nails suitable for the work ; but this difficulty was obviated by heating some board nails, thereby rendering them pliable. It blew a living gale of wind most of the time ; but during the lulls of fifteen days there were opportuni- ties to set the trawls several times, and this gave him his trip. After hauling up the anchors to start for home, having no immediate use for the stocks, he sawed them in two, using them to "fish" tlie main-boom, and was thus enabled to carry the mainsail when needed. On the loth of February, while off the Gulf of St. Lawrence, just to the eastward of Sable Island, they were struck by a hurricane, shipping a sea, which again smashed the dories and threatened to swamp the vessel ; but she came out of it handsomely and brought her plucky captain and crew safe to port. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 141 A Plucky Little Captain Gets Fifteen Hundred Dollars Sal- vage!— On the afternoon of June 12, 1875, sch. Addison Center was run down while at anchor on Cashes, during a thick fog, by brig Sarah M. Lor- ing of Yarmouth, N. S, She struck her with great force, pressing her under water, and the crew naturally supposing that she was sinking, lost no time in getting on board the brig, and were carried into Portland, She was boarded by a number of vessels, the masters of which considered it impos- sible to get her into port. And they were not to blame for so thinking, as she had a big hole in her stern, through which the water was making rap- idl}^, and it was apparent that she would soon go down. On Monday, 14th inst., she was sighted by Capt. George Whitmore of sch. Ellen of Ellsworth, Me., bound for Boston. He had as crew two boys only. Letting his own vessel drift, they boarded the Center in their boat, and he conceived the idea of saving her. It was then two o'clock in the afternoon, and he immediately commenced operations. Cutting a large piece of duck out of the mainsail, he contrived, by dint of much ingenuity, to nail it over the hole. To do this required considerable exertion, especially the nailing under water ; but he stuck to the job with a tenacity which knew no such word as fail, and after several hours of unremitting exertion, which will be understood by any one knowing the nature of such a task, he had the satisfaction of seeing it accomplished. Getting sail on her, he went on board his own vessel and gave instructions to the two lads how to run for Portland, and then returned alone to the Center. Giving the vessel a heel, so as to relieve the damaged part as much as possible, he cut the cable and shaped his course for Portland, followed by the Ellen. A fine little breeze sprang up, and the water in the vessel rushing forward brought the stern out of the water, which effectually prevented her taking in any more. This operated much in his favor, as she was then two-thirds full of water, and unless the leak had been stopped, she would have kept afloat but a short time longer. He ran all night, and reached port Wednesday noon. Mr. Horatio Babson, one of the owners of the Center, upon hearing of her arrival, immediately went to Portland, and at once acceded to Capt. Whit- more's demand of $1,500 salvage, in behalf of the Gloucester Fishing Insur- ance Company of this city, and the Naumkeag office of Salem, at which the vessel was insured. It was a plucky job throughout. Mysterious Loss of Two of the Crew of Sch. Frederic Gerring, Jr. — Two of the crew of sch. Frederic Gerrittg.Jr. — Capt. Edward Morris — William Norton and Albert Sulkey, left the vessel in their dory on the af- ternoon of Monday, Feb. 28, 1876, for the purpose of hauling their trawls. It was very moderate at the time, and others of the crew also left in dories for the same purpose. After they had been absent some twenty minutes, 142 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Capt. Morris, as is his custom, keeping watch of the dories, saw that the one in which Norton and Sulkey were seemed to be drifting, without any eflfort being made to reach the buoy, whither she was bound. Soon he saw one of the other dories pulling for her with all speed, and then he supposed that something was wrong. The other dory in due time reached the vessel, having in tow the drifting dory, and reported they had found her adrift and neither of the men were on board. The trawl gear was in the dory the same as when they started, she had shipped no water, and the cause of the drowning of the men was a mystery which could not be solved. One pair of oars was picked up in the water. This indeed is a very mysterious af- fair and without precedent, and no theory has ever yet been offered which throws any light thereon. They were both good friends, and were spoken of as first-class fishermen, Norton having been with Capt. Morris for four years. There was no squall to throw them out of the dory. The only sup- position which has any feasibility is, that one of them accidentally fell over- board, and the other in attempting to save him lost his life, both going down together. They were both married men, about thirty years of age, and res- idents of this city. Twenty-four Days in the Ice. — Schs. Hcreward, Pennington, and Rat- tler^ McPherson, which left this port for Newfoundland for a load of frozen herring in December, 1875, got frozen in while on the homeward passage, Feb. 9, 1876, ii> Fortune Bay, and there remained eleven days. Got clear the 19th and went into the ice again the same day and remained there until March 3. Schs. 6*. C. Noyes, Hatfield, of Newburyport, an4 Charles A. Ropes of Camden, Me., were also in the same predicament. Capt. Penning- ton made a drawing of the scene, in which the four vessels are visible locked in the ice, and the crews of the iremoard and Rattler busily engaged in getting some provisions from the S. C. Noyes, which lay at a distance of three miles. The ice was so rough that they were obliged to carry the flour in bags, and the men with these bags on their backs, and the captain with the empty barrel to put it in when it reached the vessel, made a lively scene. It was a tedious experience for all hands, and glad enough were they to get clear of their icy bonds. Fortunate it was that the Au)yes could supply them with flour, otherwise the men would have suffered for this necessary of life. Men Picked Up. — A Tough Tune of It. — Sch. Cornelius Stokem, which arrived at this port May 23, 1876, from Newfoundland, brought in two Frenchmen, John Bouche and Adolph Crochu, who were picked up in a dory in the Gulf of St. Lawrence on the i6th inst. They were lost from their vessel on Banquereau while attending their trawls, and exposed to a violent gale, the sea breaking over them and the weather being very cold, FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 143 enveloping them in ice. For seven days they were exposed to the severity of the weather, without food or drink, and when taken off were both in an exhausted condition and near the gates of death from hunger and exposure. One of the men was badly frozen, but both recovered from the effects of their exposure. Lost in the Fog. — Eight Days without Food or Water. — During the years 1875 and 1876 there were numerous cases of fishermen getting sepa- rated from their vessels in consequence of thick fog setting in while at their trawls, most of whom were picked up within a day or two, before they had suffered greatly from hunger or thirst. In one instance two men were out six days before they were rescued, Patrick O'Neil and Frank Miller of sch. Tubal Cain of this port, in October, 1875 ; but never have we recorded an instance where men have been eight days without food or water, as was the case of Capt. William Hines and John Foster, of sch. Eben B. Phillips of this port, the particulars of which are as follows : On the 1 8th of May, 1876, the two men left their vessel on Grand Bank early in the morning, to haul their trawl. It was not very thick at the time, but shortly after a dense fog shut in, and they were unable to find their way back. They drifted around all that day and night, occasionally rowing a little, but did not succeed in finding any traces of the schooner. On the following day the fog continued as thick as ever, and Capt. Hines thinking the vessel might be found by steering in a westerly course, headed their dory in that direction ; but instead of going toward land they only got farther out to sea. For seven days and nights they continued to drift and row at intervals, the fog continuing very dense. Their sufferings for want of food and drink were most excruciating, and being thinly clothed they suffered considerably from the chilly wind which swept over them most of the time. On the morning of the eighth day the fog lifted, and much to the joy of the famishing men, who had now scarcely strength to move, they discovered a bark in the distance. Both were so weak that they could hardly do any- thing to attract attention except by rapping on the gunwale of the dory. Knowing that it was their last hope of safety, they roused themselves to renewed effort, took to their oars, and after rowing a couple of hours, were discovered by those on board the bark, which hove to, and about half-past eleven that night they came up with her. She proved to be the Norwegian bark Collector., Capt. Holstein, bound for the Provinces. Capt. Hines was able to get on board the vessel without assistance, but Foster was perfectly helpless and had to be lifted on board. They received the kindest treat- ment from the captain and crew, and by careful nursing soon began to re- cuperate. They had drifted one hundred and sixty miles from the Bank when rescued. The bark arrived at Dalhousie on the the 5 th of June, and 144 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. on the following day the men were taken ashore and sent to St. John by the Norwegian consul at that place, he kindly paying their expenses. After stopping in St. John a few days with some of their friends, they were pro- vided with free passes for Boston and arrived home in due season ; and in time both men recovered from the terrible effects of their protracted expos- ure, which came so near causing them to die of starvation on the water — a fate which one fairly shudders to contemplate. €?**. Terrible Disaster. — Lo's.s of Sch. Kittle of Port Miilgrave, N. S., with Sixty- three Passengers Bound to This City to Engage in the Fisheries — Narrow Escape of Three Persons Who Were an Hour Late. — Sch. Kitfie, commanded by Capt. James Forrestall, her owner, left Port Mulgrave Sunday, April 2, 1876, bound for Boston, and there is no doubt but that she foundered in the severe gale of the 4th inst., carrying with her sixty-three persons belonging in Port Mulgrave and vicinity, but who were identified with Gloucester, as they followed fishing from this port during six months of the year, and had many relatives and friends in this city who were anxiously expecting their arrival. The following is the list of the passengers, as nearly as could be obtained : Fro7n Harbor Bouihc — Joiin Levangy, Hubert Levangy, Edward Decost, Frederick Levangy, Ben. Fougere, Michael Pebrine, Henry Benoit, John Paro, Jerry Fougere, Lucian Levangy, E. I'^ougere, (Jack's son) John King, O'ete's son) L. Fougere, Edward Decost, (Widow Tom's son) Jos. Decost, David Levangy, Ned Bouchy, Ben. Brean, Ben. Bel fountain, Lewis Bouchy, FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 145 Jeffrey Bouchy, Michael Oltlfield, Wm. Oldfield, Fougere, (Ephraim's son), Daniel McDonald (Allan's son), Mrs. John O'Brien and three children, Sa- rah McDonald, (Allan's daughter) Augusta Fougere, John McDonald (Allan John's son), Rory McDonald (Donald's son, lighthouse), Wm. Forrestall (William's son). From Steep Creek — Martin Doyle, N. Decost, Jos. Decost, Wm. Critten- den, (Hugh's son) John D. Whelan. From Pirate Harbor — William Maguire. From Port Mulgrave — Wm. Crittenden, Edward Ryan, Rory McDonald, George Longuill, James Perkins, Alex. Perkins, J. O'Handley, Peter For- estall, Arch. McDonald. FrojH Cape Breton — Roderick McDonald, McMillan's Point; John Mc- Eachren, Glendale ; John McDonald, do.; Daniel McDonald, McMillan's Point ; James McDonald, Whycocomagh ; John O'Handley, Judique ; Alex. McDonald, do. ; Rupert G. Ross, Port Hood ; Wm. Johnson, do.; Alex. Mclnnis, near Hawkesbury; John Cass, do.; John McDonald, Keeper, Ju- dique ; John D. McKinnon, do.; Daniel McEachren, Judique ; Henry Simp- son, Manchester. The crew consisted of Capt. James Forrestall, Capt. John Martin, James Martin, Daniel McDonald. The sch. Kittle was built in Lunenberg, and was owned by Capt. James Forrestall of Auld's Cove, Strait of Canso, and was about ten years old. The above list is as correct as can possibly be got ; there may be one or two that have not been obtained. The total, including passengers and crew, was sixty-eight. There were three persons, viz., William McDonald and Neil McDonald, brothers, and Angus McDonald, who were coming on this vessel, but were an hour late, the vessel having sailed. All their clothing was on board, and they came by land. Their being behindhand on this occasion was the means of preserving their lives. A Remarkable Experience and Narrow Escape. — The crew of the sch. Daniel A. Buniham of this port, had a singular and wonderful experi- ence. While lying to off Sable Island on the evening of Jan. 10, 1877, the schooner was struck by a heavy sea, which turned her completely over, the masts giving way while she was under water. Of her crew of thirteen men all but one were below when the vessel capsized; and the rapidity of the entire transaction, which did not allow time for the vessel to fill, proved their salvation. They were thrown from the floor to the ceiling, when the schooner was bottom up, and immediately to the floor again, as she righted. On coming on deck, the man who had been on the lookout was found hang- ing over the side by a portion of the gear, and was speedily hauled on 146 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. board. The crew remained on the wreck, on which they got some small canvas, and were heading for the land as best they could, when fortunately' they encountered the mail steamer Austrian, who took them off and landed them at St. Johns, N. F. Narrow Escape, — Two Fishermen Capsized in a Dory — Caught by a Tra^vl Hook — Fortunate Rescue. — Two of the crew of sch. Cente/inial, Peter Scanlan and George Stickling, were capsized in a dory on the fishing grounds, May 21, 1877, and had a narrow escape from a watery grave. They had completed the hauling of their trawls and were ready to return to the vessel, when a sea boarded and sunk the dory, but she soon capsized and came up again, and the men succeeded in getting hold of her, Scanlan at the bow and Stickling at the stern. In going over, the hook of one of the trawls caught in the leg of Stickling, and he was compelled to bear his own weight and that of the trawl, which he was enabled to do by fortunately securing a foothold in the stern becket of the dory. But the combined weight of man and line kept the unfortunate man nearly under water the greater part of the time, and his position was one of extreme discomfort and peril. Scan- lan was more fortunately situated, having no encumbrance exept his cloth- ing, and the forward part of the frail craft was kept well out of water by the weight at the stern ; yet his position was far from enviable, clinging to an overturned dory upon a wide expanse of surging waters. After being thus exposed for about a quarter of an hour, they were discovered by the men in another dory, who were returning to the vessel, who at once went to their rescue. Stickling was nearly exhausted, and in pulling him in, the hook was broken off in his leg, and on reaching the vessel it was found nec- essary to cut it out, making an ugly wound. He must have been possessed of remarkable powers of endurance to maintain the position until assistance arrived, and his escape from death may well be considered as very narrow, A Six Ton Boat Drags Her Anchor off Salt Island, and Her Crew to Keep Afloat Pound Ice All Night. — A Tough Time ami Nar- row Escape. — Jan. 23, 1878, will be remembered by a terrible squall, quickly followed by intense cold and a heavy northwest gale. Just previous to the squall, the little boat Hope of this port, a trifle short of six tons burthen, was to the southward of Brown's Bank, some eight miles off the Cape. She was commanded by Capt. Anthony T. P>ancis, and there was a crew of two men, John Conley and Joseph Adams, making three in all. The men had just been picking their trawls and had a dory load of fish and trawl lines, and seeing the squall coming, made all possible haste to get on board the boat. This they succeeded in doing just in time ; but it was so rough that the dory collided with the boat, knocking off a piece of her rail, and came FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 147 near staving a hole through her. Finding they could not tow the heavily laden dory, they were obliged to cut her adrift and she soon capsized, and dory and contents proved a total loss. The squall had by this time come upon them in all its fury ; but the little craft behaved well, and they got her up under the lee of Salt Island and came to anchor ; but the anchor would not hold and commenced dragging, carrying them off to sea. After dragging some four miles it finally held ; but it was so rough, and the wind ahead, that they dared not attempt to get underway, so they hung to it, de- termined to take their chances. The cold was so intense that the water shipped on deck froze almost as soon as it struck, threatening to sink the little craft, and this danger was most to be dreaded. When men's lives are in the balance, however, they will accomplish almost incredible tasks, and so it proved in the case of these poor fellows. Notwithstanding the cold winds, which pierced them like a knife, notwithstanding the showers of freez- ing cold spray which constantly broke over them, there they stood at their posts, beating ice the livelong night — a night which none of them will ever forget — and by their almost superhuman efforts they kept their little craft afloat, and the next afternoon brought her safely into port. A Perilous Time. — Friday afternoon, Jan, 4, 1878, two young men of Riverdale named George Stanwood, Jr., and Fred A. Lewis, went out fish- ing in Ipswich Bay in a dory, and at noon time, just before the storm came on, started to pull in. The snowstorm came down upon them so thick that they could not see, and to their best judgment they pulled for Annisquam light. It was a tough pull, and to add to their perils their dory sprang aleak, requiring the utmost exertions of one of the men to keep her free with a bucket, while the other pulled. Thus passed the afternoon until five o'clock, when the dory drove ashore on Coffin's Beach, just this side of the Loaf, where she was dashed in pieces, the men, wet and well nigh exhausted, succeeding in making a landing through the surf. They then dragged themselves along as best they could to the house of Mr. Gardner W. Her- rick, where they were kindly received, their wants attended to, and hospita- bly entertained for the night. In the meantime their friends at home were fearful that they were lost. This anxiety was dispelled in the morning when a messenger was dispatched, assuring the anxious friends of their safety. Loss OF A Boston Fishing Schooner. — Sch. Little Kate of South Bos- ton, 32.69 tons, formerly of this port, engaged in the haddock fishery, went ashore off Duxbury in the gale of Thursday, Jan. 10, 1878, and became a total loss. Of her crew of thirteen men not one escaped. All were resi- dents of South Boston, all related by blood or marriage, four being brothers. Seven of them were married, leaving that number of widows and twenty-one 148 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. fatherless children as the fruits of this sad disaster. The father of the four brothers mentioned, an aged man named Owen Hines, was indeed terribly afiflicted. His wife died five weeks previous, and only one crippled son was left him of a family which a few days before was full of health and promise. The vessel, too, was his, and all the property he possessed was bound up in her. A short time previous he was offered $1,500 for the schooner, but as it furnished a means of livelihood to his family as well as to himself, he refused to part with it. There was no insurance on the vessel, consequently what represented the savings of a lifetime disappeared in a moment, and with it went every one whose strong hands should have supported the old man's trembling steps toward the grave. The Storm off Cape Cod. — Five Vessels Wrecked — Terrible Sufferings of the Men on the Powwow — Thrilling Scenes of Death — Ho7v the Survivors were Rescued. — The night of the 2d and the morning of the 3d of January, 1878, were terrible for those unlucky mariners who found themselves in a snowstorm, being driven on the treacherous sands of Cape Cod. Five ves- sels were lost. From the largest two not a soul was savetl ; every man, from the captains down to the deck boys, was buried beneath the cold FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 149 waters. A few bodies were recovered, but the majority sleep in watery- graves. The sufferings of the crew of the ill-fated Powwo^v of Provincetown were frightful. The hour of 4 A. M. found them drifting helplessly to the lee shore of Wellfleet. With the hope of checking their drift they anchored, but the chain of their larger anchor parted and the vessel dragged the smaller one as if it had been a pound weight. Then, as the tempest lulled, "Hoist the jib," shouted the captain, "and we'll run her through the surf." With great difficulty the sail was partially hoisted and the vessel's head swung towards the land. But alas ! she struck in the outer breakers. The great billows broke over her and in an instant she filled. A signal of dis- tress was lighted, but was soon extinguished. "Set the kerosene afire," ordered Capt. Caton ; "we must let the station men know we are here." This was done. Thank heaven, an answering signal was heard, and in the course of a half hour they discerned a horse and cart moving towards them along the beach, bearing a large box containing the patent rescue gun. A long hour crept by, but there came no other signs of succor. Their hopes fell. So cold were they that it was with difficulty they clung to the rigging. Drenched every moment with icy water, they were soon benumbed. One huge fellow, with the muscles of a Hercules, was three times washed away from the vessel. Twice he regained his hold, but the third time his strength failed, and he sank to rise no more. As the dreary morning passed two others gave up the struggle, and releasing their grasp, were swept away. One poor boy, named James Dovvnling. whose home was in Boston, suc- cumbed to the cold. "I can't stand it any longer, Captain," said he, "I am going to die." When last seen by the survivors he was lying in the lee scuppers, his head hanging listlessly to one side, his hair matted with ice and his arms clutching in their death-grip a coil of frozen rope. And at last the captain whispered hoarsely, "Good-bye, boys, I shall try for the shore. May God keep me for my poor wife's sake." A dory was got over the side, but was crushed in an instant. Capt. Caton then tore off the cabin skylight, and heaving it overboard, sprang after it. His support was soon wrenched from his grasp, but he struggled manfully. He reached the shore ; twice he stood erect on the sand, but the undertow was too powerful, and he was drawn under the surf, 'ilie ten men who remained on the vessel were destined to be saved. After daylight the Life Saving Station men, who had previously been devoting their energies to the vain attempt of rescuing the crew of the other wreck, arrived. The first time they fired the mortar the ball with the line attached fell over the spring-stay, but the men were so chilled with cold that it was impossible to get it. After several trials, how- ever, the line fell where they could reach it. At 10 A. M.. they were all ashore and were tenderly cared for at the Humane House. 150 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Perilous Experienxes. — Allen Maginnis, of sch. Centennial, was drowned by the capsizing of a dory on Grand Bank, Jan. 20, 1878. His companion in the dory, John McLeod, succeeded in getting on the bottom of the frail craft, but this afforded a very insecure hold, and while all the other dories belonging to the vessel were provided with beckets fastened to the plugs for cases of such emergency, this particular one was not thus furnished. McLeod retained his hold as best he could, being sometimes washed off, uniil seeing a halibut-killer afloat a short distance away, he swam off and secured it, and pounding out the plug, was able to thrust one of his fingers through the hole in the bottom of the dory, and thus maintain his hold. In this manner, changing from one finger to another, he held his own with great difficulty for about two hours, when his cries were heard by some com- panions in another dory, who rowed to his assistance and took him off in an exhausted condition. Several of his fingers were badly chafed, and it is doubtful if he could have held on much longer. Nov. 6, 1878, Thomas King and Charles Hubbley, of sch. Annie C. Nor- wood, on an off-shore codfishing trip, were out in their dories, when a squall came on and the dory capsized so suddenly as to throw them ten feet from her. They managed to swim to the overturned dory and to get upon her bottom, but King was greatly exhausted and soon succumbed. Hubbley succeeded in maintaining his position by getting a finger in the plug-hole, holding on for two hours, until his finger was nearly cut off, when he was taken off by sch. Rutherford B. Hayes, greatly exhausted. Lost and Found. — A Happy Surprise. — Alexander McEachen and Au- gustus Armstrong, two of the crew of sch. Mary F. Chisholm of this port, left that vessel during a fog. May 9, 1878, to attend to their trawls on West- ern Bank. They got out of hearing of the fog-horn and were unable to find their vessel. After rowing for twenty-four hours they fell in with a French fishing vessel and were taken on board, where they remained two days. They were subsequently transferred to sch. Viking, and arrived home the day before the Chisholm, and were the first to hail that vessel as she came up the harbor with her flag at half-mast in token of their loss. The flag was speedily flying from the mast-head in rejoicing at their deliverance, and their shipmates congratulated them heartily on their fortunate escape. A Hard Pull in a Dory. — Two of the crew of sch. Ida A. Thurhnv of Eastport, Me., named Alex. S. Morise and Thomas T. (Goodwin, were lost from that vessel in May, 1878, while attending to their trawls in a dory, and after an exposure of eighty-two hours, without compass, food or water, by making a perilous voyage of one hundred and twenty miles, succeeded in landing, through fearful breakers, forty-five miles east of Halifax. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 151 A Perilous Night. — Friday, Jan, 4, 1878, a severe storm came on dur- ing the afternoon, and most of the Lanesville dory fleet arrived in ere it became very severe. At sundown there was great anxiety felt for the safety of Sylvanus C. Lane and Lorenzo Griffin, who had not arrived. Sad were the hearts on the shore as the cold wind blew its fitful blasts and the blind- ing snowstorm raged in all its fury. It was a tough night to be exposed in an open dory on the rough waters of Ipswich Bay, and so these fishermen found it. They could not make any headway to the port which they wished to gain, so they drifted to leeward, having hard work to keep their craft afloat. Soon they heard the breakers on the beach toward Ipswich, and their only chance was to throw their anchor, and it held them in eight fath- oms of water. There they waited for the wind to change, knowing full well their fate if the anchor parted. It did not part, although several times they shipped heavy seas, nearly filling their dory with water, which they bailed out with a bucket. Fortunately the wind changed, and the worn out fisher- men rowed home, arriving at midnight, where they were received by their loved ones with thankful hearts. A Rough Experience. — Feb. 28, 1879, sch. Alfred Walen, Capt. Patrick O'Neal, was coming home from Brown's Bank, and while reefing the main- sail, the vessel took a roll to windward, and one of the crew, Richard Cos- tillo, who was on the end of the boom, lost his balance and went overboard. After making four attempts to catch the log line he succeeded in grasping it. The vessel was going nine miles an hour, with a heavy sea running, and he was dragged under water. The vessel was put up in the wind, and the unfortunate man was some three hundred feet off, still clinging for dear life to the log line, and swashed up and down by the heavy seas, rendering his position extremely dangerous. He felt the pulling of the men on the line, the force of which pulled him under water, and he could not remain on the surface. He was hauled, as near as he could judge, some sixty feet, when he gave up all hopes of being saved, as he did not come to the surface un- til he was hauled under the quarter of the vessel, when the men got into a dory, and getting a rope about him, got him on board the vessel, where, after long and repeated efforts, they succeeded in resuscitating him. He never has recovered from his fearful experience, having raised a great deal of blood, and has not been able to do much work since. An Unfortunate Skipper. — The captain and owner of a small schooner at Portland had hard luck of it. He had fished on Georges seventeen years, and in the Spring of 1880 concluded he would sell his little home in Glouc- ester, pay ofif the mortgage and with the proceeds go to Boothbay and live quietly. Afterwards, in Gloucester, he accidentally lost his right index fin- 152 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. ger. He lifted the mortgage by selling his house, and had $233.50 left. This money he put in an envelope, and the envelope in an inside pocket. He set sail for Boothbay with his family in his vessel, and on Saturday, Sept. 3, when ofif Cape Elizabeth, as he leaned over the rail to pull in a rope, the envelope fell from his pocket into the water, and as $1.50 of the money was in silver it sank before his eyes. At the Mercy of the Seas. — Five Days witJwiit Food or Drink. — John Whitlaw and Samuel Orgrove, two of the crew of fishing sch. Edtvani A. Norton of this port, left that vessel on Grand Bank, Thursday, July i, 1880, for the purpose of hauling their trawls. After loading their dory they found themselves unable to return to their vessel, on account of a heavy fog hav- ing shut in, and rowed aimlessly away in the hope of finding succor. After undergoing great exposure and hardships, on the following Tuesday they effected a landing upon the coast of Newfoundland, greatly reduced and almost in a dying condition from their enforced abstinence from food and drink. They were kindly treated, and were forwarded to St Johns, N. F., •where they arrived on the evening of July 9. Death from Exposure on the Fishing Grounds. — Sch. Polar Wave, Capt. Jerome McDonald, was on Banquereau, March 24th, 1880, when the wind suddenly shifted and it set in extremely cold while six of her dories were out. The vessel got underway and found five of the dories without difficulty, but the other, containing GeoVge Nelson and Charles Ray, re- mained undiscovered until morning. These men had hauled up and rowed away from the vessel instead of towards her. They soon discovered their mistake, as a strong light was set in the rigging of the vessel, and tiiey re- mained within sight of it all night. They threw overboard their fish and gear, but were unable to make headway against the wind and sea to the vessel. The next day they were seen by the crew, who went to their suc- cor. When found at three o'clock, P. M., Nelson was dead, having died from the exposure at about nine, A. M. He was an Austrian, a native of Tricate, about twenty-three years of age, and had followed fishing from this port for some time. He was buried at sea March 30. He was spoken of as of a very delicate constitution, weighing about one hundred and ten pounds, and notwithstanding the continued cheering up and entreaties by his companion, to continue rowing, and they would surely be saved, the poor fellow was so utterly exhausted that he could not make further etTorts and succumbed to the terrible cold and exposure. A Caution Which Should Be Heeded, — If the fishermen would only take the precaution to place a jug of water and some hard bread in their FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 153 dories, it would oftentimes save much suffering and perhaps life. It is full time that masters and owners of fishing vessels interested themselves in this matter and insisted that it should be done. The expense and trouble is but trifling compared with the benefits which might follow, and it should be among the duties required of fishermen each trip to see that every dory was provided with the wherewithal to sustain life when lost in the fog or driven out of sight of their vessel, as is frequently the case. There is no excuse for the fishermen if they fail to comply with this simple duty, and we trust that they will heed this advice and provide a remedy for one cause of dan- ger and suffering attending the business. Five Days Adrift in a Dory Without Food. — James McGrath and Michael Coleman left sch. Procter Brothers on Western Bank, March 18, 1880, to attend to their trawls, and a gale springing up, were unable to re- turn to the vessel. After drifting about at the mercy of the wind and waves for five days, without food or water, drove ashore at Sable Island on the evening of the 22d. The weather was intensely cold and their sufferings extreme while they were in the dory, and McGrath had both feet badly frozen. When taken out of the dory they were unable to walk, and had to be carried on the shoulders of the men stationed on the island to aid wrecked people. They were taken to the hospital, and being sufficiently recovered, were taken to Halifax by the Dominion Government steamer Newjield. The Colemans, as it would appear, were not born to be drowned. On Feb. 15, 1879, Charles Coleman was capsized on the Banks in a dory from sch. Commonwealth, and with his companion. Sweeny McKenzie, clung to the dory's bottom for an hour and a half with such desperation as to leave the imprints of their fingers in the wood. Coleman slipped from his hold three times, and three times his comrade battled the waves to rescue him, and he was so exhausted when taken on board the vessel that it took three hours to bring him to consciousness. Michael Coleman, whose second nar- row escape is narrated above, was lost in a dory with H. Choate Allen from sch. Addison G. Procter, June 29, 1879, on Si. Peter's Bank, and after sub- sisting on small pieces of raw halibut for four days, and rowing one hundred and sixty miles, they were picked up by a Lockeport, N. S., schooner. Shipwreck and Loss of Life. — Gallant Rescue by a Gloucester Fishing Cfew. — Sch. Laura Sayward, Capt. James Moore, arrived from a Georges trip Sept. 14, 1880, bringing the captain, John C. Winchester, and mate, Thomas Lewis, of sch. Maggie Blanche, of Digby, N. S., for Barbadoes with a load of lumber and potatoes, being accompanied by the owner of the ves- sel, Mr. Wesley K. Rice, who designed selling the vessel on her arrival at the West Indies. The Maggie Blanche set sail Sunday, Sept. 5, and every- 154 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. thing went well until Wednesday, the 8th, at about ten o'clock, A. M., when she encountered a strong gale from the east-southeast with a heavy sea, ac- companied by rain and squalls. During the gale the schooner was hove on her beam ends, shifting the cargo in her hold, and laid dead in the water under a three-reefed foresail. The wind veering to the northeast, causing a heavy cross sea, an effort was made to take in the reefed foresail with the design of jettisoning the deck load, and v/hile furling the sail a sea ran in to leeward and capsized the vessel. About eight o'clock, Thursday morn- ing, the cargo having washed out, the mainmast broke off at the deck and the vessel righted full of water. The owner, Mr. Rice, was drowned in his cabin, his body washing out, and the officers and crew, four in number, were confined to the deck, all below being full of water. Two of them, William Vroon, one of the crew, and Augustus Theodore (colored), the cook, were washed overboard and drowned, and the captain and mate lashed themselves to the deck. A brig passed quite near them, and they signalled her by every means within their power, but without avail, and she kept on her course. On Saturday morning, the nth, about seven o'clock, the wreck was descried by sch. Latira Sayward lying at anchor on the northeastern part of Georges, and Capt. Moore at once commenced making arrangements to go to her assistance. The windlass was manned and an attempt made to raise the anchor, but there was a heavy cross sea running, and but little progress could be made in that direction. Finding that the wreck was fast sinking and that prompt measures must be taken, Capt. Moore ordered his cable cut, having a whole string out, and a dory was launched and manned by two of the crew. Dean Crockett and James Lord, who went to the wreck and took off the suffering men. These men, Crockett and Lord, were subsequently the recipients of two magnificent stem-winding watches from the Canadian Government, through Hon. Edward Thornton, British Minister at Washington, in recognition of their humane and gallant exertions in saving life. A Tough Experience. — Charles Lunt and Paul Nelson of sch. Waldo Irving^ haddock catching, off shore, left the vessel Wednesday, Dec. 29, 1880, to visit their trawls, and were unable afterwards to find trace of the vessel, and those on board could not find the men. They started to row for the land, but were blown off. Thursday afternoon, about two o'clock, after having been exposed in their frail craft to the severe snow squall and terrible cold which followed, and when, as near as they could judge, they were about thirty-five miles from Jioston light, they saw a steamer and rowed in her track. It proved to be the ocean steamer Sardinian, on the passage from Boston to England, via Halifax. It came alongside the dory, a sailor got down and bent a line to each of the men, as they were so exhausted FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 155 they could not help themselves, and they were hoisted on deck. They were so much exhausted from exposure, hard work and want of food, that they could have survived but a short time longer. Their hands and feet were badly frostbitten and their sufferings indescribable. During the heavy gale of Wednesday night they kept their dory's head to the sea by means of a drogue made from their fishing tackle and trawl tub. They weae taken in charge by the American consul at Halifax and sent home. Particulars of the Loss of Sch. Lizzie K. Clark, — Sch. Lizzie K. Clark, Capt. Ambrose Melanson, left port March 22, 1881, bound South on a mackerel trip, and capsized and sunk about twenty miles southeast of Barnegat on the 25th. The weather was rough from the start, but on the 25th the sea was comparatively calm, and at one o'clock in the afternoon all hands except the helmsman were below putting the seines and gear in order. The vessel was under full sail and heading west, one-half north, when she was suddenly struck by a squall and capsized. Capt. Melanson rushed upon deck and hove the wheel down, but she was too far over to obey the helm, and he seized an axe and ran forward to cut the fore sheets, but being unable to reach them, got into the main rigging and severed the halyards. At this time the ice-pens gave way and their contents shifting prevented the schooner from righting. Both companion-ways were open, and the water rushed down, filling the hold. The crew reached the deck with considerable difficulty, and one of their number, Edward Ryan, the first to follow Capt. Melanson on deck, was washed overboard. The others climbed upon the weather side, and cutting adrift the seine boat, lashed be- tween the masts and rigging, got her afloat half filled with water. They picked up Ryan, and were scarcely a hundred feet away from the schooner when she sank. After floating about for half an hour they were picked up by Pilot Boat No. 3.. Seven were put on board the tug Kriickerbocker and taken to New York, and seven were taken to the same port in the brig Mary Fink, from Matanzas. Picked Up Adrift. — A Humane Shipmaster. — George Strowhan and John Kerry, two of the crew of sch. George S. Bontwell, Capt. Gorman, of this port, left that vessel on Western Bank to set their trawls, Aug. i, r88i, and were lost in the fog. After being adrift for eighteen hours without food or drink, they were picked up by the coal laden steamship Wilton of and for Hartlepool, Eng., from Philadelphia. Sighting a vessel in the distance, which proved to be the schooner to which they belonged, the captain of the steamer went some ten miles out of his course to put them on board, instead of taking them across the Atlantic. After the men were picked up there was a thick fog for three or four days, and they probably would have per- ished but for the timely succor. 156 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Capsized on the Banks. — Seized by a Shark When Succor Was at Hand. ■ — Sch. Victor, Capt. John E. Sigsworth, arrived from a Western Bank trip, Aug. 16, 188 1, and reported a sad accident on the Banks on the 12th, re- sulting in the horrible death of one of her crew, George M. Sigsworth, a brother of the skipper. Young Sigsworth and a companion named David A. Raymond had been out to set their trawls, and while returning to the vessel, a tub in the after part of the dory interfering with their rowing, they hauled in their oars to change its position. Just then a heavy sea struck and capsized the dory, throwing its occupants into the water. Sigsworth kept afloat by means of an oar held under his breast, and the air filling his oil jacket, and his companion succeeded in getting upon the bottom of the dory and holding on by the stern becket. Sigsworth made his way towards the dory, and had just reached out his hand to take that of Raymond, which was extended to aid him, when a huge shark made its appearance, and seiz- ing the unfortunate man disappeared with its prey, who was not seen again. He was a young man of good character, about twenty-seven and a half years of age, unmarried, a native of Prince Edward Island, and had followed fish- ing from Gloucester for several years. Narrow Escape. — Sch. Davy Crockett, while on Cashes, in September, 1881, ran over her seine boat containing eleven men, and they had a lively time to save themselves. They were overhauling the seine, taking it on board the boat, when the cook, who with another man was left on the ves- sel, endeavored to bring her alongside the boat, but made a miscalculation in "luffing," and she struck the boat amidships. Seven of the men man- aged to cling to the boat ; one, Christie Johnson, swam for the dory ; and A. G. Eisener, Dighton Simons and Wiley Havener, happened to be good swimmers and succeeded in getting hold of the vessel's fenders. A Daring Deed. — Two Gloucester Mariners Risk Their Lives to Rescue a Comrade. — April 2, 1881, Albert F. Fitch, one of the crew of sch. Star of the East, was washed overboard while dressing fish on Brown's Bank. He was fortunate in catching hold of a shifting plank which had washed over- board, on which he succeeded in keeping afloat for an hour and ten minutes before being picked up. It was blowing a heavy gale from the northwest, with a strong tide running to leeward, and any attempt to go to his rescue was fraught with great peril. But unmindful of the serious risk, Michael Doyle and Joseph Hackett jumped into an old dory and started away be- fore the wind and sea to rescue their imperilled comrade. After they got him on board of their frail boat they found it absolutely impossible to return to their vessel, but succeeded in boarding sch.. Joseph O., which was also lying at anchor on the Bank. It took some three hours of constant labor, FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 157 aftei arriving onboard i\\Q. Joseph O., to resuscitate Fitch, and the three men remained on board the latter vessel from Sunday night until Tuesday after- noon, when the Star 0/ the East w^s signalled, and ran down and took the men on board. It was a noble deed, and as such we herewith record it in the "Fishermen's Own Book." Rescue of a Crew in an Open Boat. — Sch. Thresher, Capt. Andrew McKenzie, at this port from the Banks, May 17, 1881, reported on the out- ward passage, April 22d, lat. 46.39, Ion. 58.5, falling in with Capt. E. Jeary and crew of five men belonging to sch. Flora, of and from St. Pierre. They were in an open boat and had been exposed to the elements eight days and were on allowance of one biscuit daily each. The Flora was bound to Syd- ney for coal, had got caught in the ice, sprung aleak and sunk. Everything was done for the comfort of the sufferers, and they were landed at St. Pierre. Capt. Jeary testified his appreciation of the kind treatment received by giving Capt. McKenzie a written acknowledgment of the same, expressing heartfelt gratitude. Four Days and Three Nights Adrift in a Dory Without Food. — Angus Chisholm and William Kennedy left sch. Bellerophon on Grand Bank, April 15, 1881, to visit their trawls. The fog shutting down they succeeded in getting on board of sch. Solomon Poole. When the fog lifted they made another start, but were soon enveloped in the misty haze, from whose perils they escaped a second time by boarding sch. Ocean King. Nothing daunted, as soon as it lighted up a little, they made a third attempt to find their trawls. From that time their experience was the "oft-told tale." Astray upon the high seas, encompassed by a dense fog, with nothing to guide their course, and destitute of food, they rowed and rowed and rowed in their well- nigh hopeless quest for a friendly sail. To their discomforts from exposure in their frail boat, their labor at the oars, and their wearing anxiety as to their possible fate, were soon added the pangs of hunger. These they en- deavored to palliate by eating pieces of raw fish, but their stomachs rejected the unwonted and unsuitable food. Fortunately they were supplied with a quart bottle of fresh water, which was carefully husbanded, and which did much to sustain and cheer them on their weary round. Only a quart of wa- ter ! yet for the time to them their most valuable possession, compared w^ith which all the glittering wealth of the world would have been valueless. For four dreary days and three long nights their lives were one constant monot- ony of desolation, of fruitless longing and unfulfilled hopes. Finally, April 19, they were picked up by the bark Von Moltke, Capt. McCuUy, from Lon- donderry for Baltimore, and kindly treated. The bark landed them at Delaware Breakwater, whence they were furnished a free passage home, ar- riving May 3. 158 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Home from a Fishing Voyage via England. — Charles Beranson and William Dousey, two of the crew of fishing sch. Notice of this port, left their vessel on Grand Bank, Aug. 23, i88i,for the purpose of visiting their trawls, and becoming involved in the fog failed to find their way back. They were without provisions, but the second day adrift came across a trawl from which they took two halibut to appease their hunger. After drifting about for three days and four nights they were picked up by the Norwegian bark Tancred, bound from the West Indies for Liverpool, Eng., and in due time were landed at the latter port, where they were taken in charge by the American consul, who supplied them with clothing and other necessaries and secured them passage to Boston on a schooner, and they arrived home about the middle of October. A Hard Time of It. — All Night in a Dory with the Oars Gone. — Friday morning, Jan, 27, 1882, sch. Etnma S. Osier of this port was about four miles southwest of the Isles of Shoals. Soon after it came up squally, and she picked up her dories, all but one, which was manned by John W. Gas- kell, about a mile and a half to the leeward. It was easy for him to see the vessel, but not so for those on board to see him, as he pitched up and down on the heavy seas, Capt, Osier did everything in his power to find the missing man, but all efforts to get the buoy marks in the heavy squall were unavailing, Gaskell concluding that his best chance for getting on board was to row, let go the lee buoy, on to which he was holding, and started. When he had got about half way to the schooner she kept off, and he made up his mind that there was a hard pull for him ere he could reach the land or be picked up by some vessel. About eleven o'clock a heavy sea struck the dory, breaking the forward thwart, nearly filling her. The oars were washed overboard, and there he was in a heavy sea with no oars with which to help himself. He at once made a drogue of his nets, adding a dozen bricks, and lay quite comfortable to it until three P, M,, when it mod- erated, and he commenced paddling with the damaged thwart, making very good progress and keeping himself comfortably warm with the exercise, al- though it was hard work. At 7 P. M., being entirely exhausted, he came to anchor abreast Halibut Point. Here he passed the night, which was cold and uncomfortable, and the hours seemed long and dreary. At sun- rise, Saturday morning, he was glad to see the fishing boat Pinafore come out of Rockport harbor, and paddling toward her was cordially received, and after partaking of a good breakfast he proceeded with them to the fishing grounds, arriving back in season to take the afternoon train home. Gas- kell's hands were badly blistered and his fingers frozen, but he soon recov- ered from the effects of the exposure. His arrival home caused great rejoicing, as it was feared that he was drowned. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 159 The Frenchman's Stew, and the Disgusted Irishmen. BY DICK SKYLIGHT. On a pleasant evening in the Summer of 186 — , the sch. Clara F. Friend came sailing into Gloucester harbor, having on board in addition to her reg- ular crew a young Frenchman, whom we will call Louis D. One night, while laying at anchor on the Bank, he had left his own vessel and swam on board the Friend, which also lay anchored about a mile distant from the French bark he had left. He could not speak a word of English at that time, but by language of signs, which is understood by all men, he succeed- ed in making the American fishermen aware of his desire to visit the United States, and they cheerfully acceded to his wishes, assuring him that they would take him home with them. On arriving in port the Friend was hauled into the wharf and well secured, and, it being Saturday night, all her crew went home to stay over Sunday, leaving the Frenchman alone on board. The following morning Louis was out bright and early, and having eaten a hasty breakfast, took a stroll around the wharves to look at the vessels and also to to get an idea of the place which he now saw for the first time. During his wanderings about he saw a pet cat on the wharf at which the vessel lay, and pussy, with trusting confidence, came running up to him, and began purring and rubbing herself against his leg. Now this was a most unfortunate thing for the cat ; she took the same risk of destruction that is taken by the unwary whale which ventures inside of Race Point, or the school of mackerel that comes flipping along near Cape Ann. As the eager Frenchman took the unsuspecting feline up in his arms bright visions of a delicious soup danced before his imagination. "Now for a fresh mess !" he mentally exclaimed. "Oh, my! ugh! the cruel, nasty thing!" exclaims some fair reader, as she pictures to herself her favorite Tabby in the grasp of such a remorse- less cat destroyer. But Louis knew nothing and cared less about the prejudices of the Anglo- Saxon race in regard to the place which the cat should occupy in domestic economy. He had tramped the sun-burnt plains of Mexico as a soldier, served a term on a man-of-war, and lastly, dined oft" salt grub and skate chowders in the forecastle of a French fishing vessel, and had long before this got over being fastidious, therefore he was no way loath to indulge in the luxury of a cat stew, the principal ingredient for which he had so easily i6o FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOR. secured. It is not necessary to speak here of the modus operandi of prepar- ing the stew ; suffice it to say that in clue course of time it was ready. While this was transpiring a market boat, manned by a crew of hardy Irishmen, came in the harbor and hauled alongside of the wharf at which the Friend lay. It was now near noon, and the olfactories of the new comers were greatly refreshed by the smell of the savory stew which was then in process of cooking. Louis, being socially inclined, soon made the acquaintance of the boat's crew, and with true French politeness invited them, in broken English, to partake of his dinner. This was an opportunity for a good "feed" not to be neglected, and soon the party of six or eight were seated at the table and busily employed in gratifying their appetite, the stew being highly ap- preciated and praised by all the invited guests, who innocently supposed it was made of chickens or some sort of game. "Be dad, that's a foine stew, Larry, me b'y," said one of the fishermen to his shipmate, after dinner, and while they were filling and lighting their dudeens for a "schmoke." " Yer right there, Mike, but phat was it made of I'd like ter know ? Divil the bit can I tell phat kind of a bird it was." "Sure, it's aisy enough ter find out. Say, me b'y," addressing the French- man, "phat kind of a bird did yer make that soup of ?" Now Louis, though he comprehended the meaning of the question, could not answer it in English ; therefore he did the next best thing, that is, quickly stepped into the forehold and brought out the "bird's" skin, which he displayed to the amazement and disgust of his visitors. "Howly mither !" one exclaimed as he caught sight of the skin and the species of animal which had figured as the basis of the soup was made ap- parent to him. "Dear Jasus !" shouted another, grabbing his dudeen in his hand, and turning pale ; "the dirty haythen has been feeding us with a cat." A rush was now made for the deck, and never, perhaps, was seen a group of men more thoroughly demoralized and sickened than these now unhappy Irishmen. Each one seemed as intent on getting rid of his dinner as he had been to eat it, while poor Louis, the innocent cause of all this trouble, looked on in wonder, not clearly comprehending the situation, and hardly knowing what to expect. It is not necessary to describe the closing scene more in detail, since the imagination can best fill up the picture. It is safe to say, however, that the Frenchman's cat stew has never been forgotten by any of those who partook of it, the particulars of which, as related above, were told the writer some years later by the principal actor, Louis, himself. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. i6i [the doky "cextennial."] Dory Voyagers Across the Atlantic. The fact that three Gloucester-built dories have successfully crossed the ocean in recent years makes it fitting that some reference should be made to such voyaging in " The Fishermen's Own Book." A little boat of ten tons burthen is said to have come to America from the mother country in the colonial days, while of the fleet of Columbus in 1492 two were only half-decked over, and were of less than forty tons burthen. The first man to cross the Atlantic alone was Capt. Josiah Shackford, a Portsmouth, N. H., seaman, who sailed from Bordeaux, France, in 1786, in a "cutter-built" sloop of fifteen tons, accompanied only by a dog, and after a passage of thirty-five days arrived safely at Surinam, South America. June 15, 1864, Capt. John Donovan sailed from New York for London in a brig-rigged yawl-boat called the Vision., put into Boston July 5, leaking, repaired and set sail again, was spoken July 20 and supplied with provis- ions by an ocean steamer, and was never afterwards heard from. The Vision was 16 feet keel, 4 ft. 10 in. beam, 2 ft. 9 in. deep, and had masts 19 ft. high, spreading 50 yards of canvas. The famous little Red, White and Blue sailed from New York July 9, 1866, and made the trip to London in thirty-eight days, the shortest time known to dory voyagers. She was 24 ft. long, 5^ ft. beam, drawing 18 inches of water forward and 20 inches aft, and was ship-rigged, spreading 65 yards i62 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. of canvas. Her crew consisted of Capt. John N. Hudson, Francis E. Fitch and a small poodle. About the same time a ten-ton fishing boat is said to hav^e made the pas- sage from Penzance to Australia. In 1867 the N'onpareil, a life-raft constructed of three rubber cylinders 25 ft. long and schooner-rigged, sailed from Boston June 4, and made the pas- sage to Southampton in fifty-one days. She had three men on board, Capt, Mikes, George Miller and Henry Lawson. The same month the John T. Ford, a schooner-rigged boat 25 ft. long, sailed from Baltimore with two men on board, but capsized off Waterford, on the coast of Ireland. The captain was drowned, but the other man was rescued by a passing vessel. The City of Ragusa, sloop-rigged, 19 ft. long, 6^ ft. wide and c^Yz ft. deep, manned by an Austrian named Primnaiz and an Englishman named Hay- ter, made the passage from Liverpool to Boston in ninety-eight days, in the Summer of 1870. The following year she made the passage from New York to Queenstown in forty days. Alfred Johnsen, a Gloucester fisherman of Danish birth, was the first man to cross the ocean unaccompanied even by a dog. His dory, the Cen- tennial, was built in this city by Messrs. Higgins & Gifford, and was 16 ft. keel, 20 ft. over all, 5^ ft. wide and 2)^ ft. deep, decked over with the exception of a standing room and hatchway, sloop-rigged, with two jibs, mainsail and square-sail. The Centennial sailed from Gloucester June 15, 1876, touched at Barrington, N. S., sailed again June 25, and arrived safely at Liverpool, England, Aug. 21, sixty-seven days from Gloucester. Johnsen was a close calculator, and his log gave evidence that he followed the gen- eral route of steamship travel. Aug. 2 his boat was capsized by a heavy sea, but he managed to right her. Soon after, a huge shark appeared along- side, which he frightened away with a knife fastened to a pole. Another dory, the Brittle, Capt. Madison, attempted to make the voyage from New York to Liverpool in the Summer of 1876, and was last heard from in lat. 42, long. 46, where she was spoken by the ship Beethoven. The Brittle was 16 ft. keel, clinker-built, sloop-rigged and decked over, with a small hatchway amidships. The first woman to cross the Atlantic in a dory made the perilous passage in 1877. On May 28 of that year Capt. and Mrs. Thomas Crapo set sail from New Bedford in a boat 19.55 ^^- 'o"g' ^-4 ^t- wide and 3.10 ft. deep, x\7ax\^^ New Bedford. She had two masts, 18 and 17 ft. high respectively, with leg-of-mutton sails. She made the passage without accident, reaciiing Mount's Bay, near Penzance, in forty-nine days. Capt. Crapo is now (1882J master of sch. Adelia Felicia of New Bedford. FISHERMEN'S O WN BOOK. 163 The Nautilus came next. She was also built by Messrs. Hlggins & Gif- ford, and was a lap-streaked dory 15 ft. keel, 19 ft. over all, 6 ft. 7 in. wide and 2 ft. 3 in. deep. She was manned by William A. and Asa W. Andrews, brothers, of Beverly, grandsons of the late Zebulon Andrews of Essex, and sailed from South Boston June 7, 1878. Put into Beverly and sailed again June 12, made Bishop's Rock Lighthouse in the English Channel July 28, put into Mullion Cove July 31, and arrived at Havre, France, Aug. 8. [the dory "nautilus" in mid-ocean.] June I, 1879, Capt. and Mrs. Lewis G. Goldsmith sailed from Boston for England in the Unde Sam, a boat 18 ft. over all, 6 ft. 4 in. beam and 3 ft. 2 in. deep. They were obliged to put back, sailed again June 5, put into Cape Island, N. S., June 16, arrived at Halifax, N. S., June 20, touched at Canso, N. S., July 4 and Sydney, C. B., July 7, arrived at St. Johns, N. F., Aug. 7, set sail again Aug. 11, were disabled in a gale Aug. 16, and were taken off by a passing ship Aug. 19 and landed at New York. Capt. Henry Otto of Baltimore had a boat built the same year for the purpose of making a voyage to Liverpool and Hamburg and back. She was 18 ft. long, 6 ft. beam, 25 in. deep and cat-rigged, but the voyage was probably abandoned, as we have seen no account of Capt. Otto embarking from port. Capt. Herbert F. Burrill of Falmouth and Andrew R. Coan of Nantucket set sail from Boston July 9, 1879, for a voyage to Australia and thence to San Francisco in the Go/den Gate, a boat 19 ft. long, 5 ft. 4 in. wide and 2 ft. 6 in. deep, schooner-rigged and spreading 75 yards of canvas. After meeting with many misadventures they landed at a little fTshing village on the coast of Brazil, and were sent home by the American. Consul at Bahia. 164 FISHERMEiYS OWN BOOK. The same year a "sea-tramp" sailed from New York to Boston "in a cockle shell about the size of a coffin, being forty-nine days on the passage." Two Boston architects cruised from London to Constantinople in a ten-ton yacht named Dorian. The last Gloucester-built dory to cross the Atlantic was the Little Western, also built by Messrs. Higgins & Gifford. She was 16 ft. 7 in. over all, 13 ft. 6 in. keel, 6 ft. 8 in. beam and 2 ft. 6 in. deep, clinker-built, cutter-rigged, and spread 51 yards of canvas. Manned by George S. Thomas and Fred. Norman. She sailed from Gloucester June 12, 1880, and arrived at Cowes July 28, forty-six days from Gloucester. She sailed from London June 14, 1881, on the return trip, arrived at Port Mechan, C. B., Aug. 28, at Halifax, N. S., Sept. 2, and at Gloucester Sept. 15, being the only one of the Glouc- ester-built dories to make the ocean passage both ways. The last successful venture in this line was made by the City of Bath, a dory 14 ft. long, 5 ft. wide, 21 in. deep, decked over and sloop-rigged, built at Georgetown, Me. She was manned by John Traynor, Ivar Olsen and a kitten, sailed from Bath, Me., July 5, 1881, put into Trespassey, N. F., sailed again, arrived at Falmouth, England, Aug. 24, fifty days from Bath, and proceeded to Havre. Another boat was built for an ocean venture last year, but we have seen no account of her voyage. She was 19 ft. keel, 5 ft. beam, 13 in. draught, brig-rigged, and was to sail from New York, manned by Charles Moore and Benjamin Radford. Her name was Williajn H. Grace. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. i6s \From Report of Commissioner of Fish and Fisheries ?[ Life on Board a Mackerel Catcher— Mackerel Catching with the Purse-Seine. BY FREDERICK M. WALL EN", Norwegian Commissioner to the Centennial Exhibition at Philadelphia. After having waited some lime for an opportunity to go to sea, to witness the business out there, I succeeded in getting a promise of a place on board the sch. IVi//ia?n S. Baker, Captain A. K. Pearce. It was an old vessel but a good sailer, and the captain was recommended to me as an experienced enlightened, and generous man, who would take much interest in communi- cating to me all the information he could give. He had carried on the herring fishing at Labrador, halibut fishing off the west coast of Greenland and was now determined to prosecute mackerel fishing in the sea north of Boston. Late on a rainy evening I was informed that the vessel was now ready to sail, in Gloucester Harbor, and that I could come on board. Neither the weather nor the vessel particularly invited one out in the dark, foggy nio-ht. But after being shown a tolerably good bunk astern, where besides myself four of the crew had quarters, I soon found myself adjusted and anxious to get under sail. Early in the morning we cast loose and the vessel hauled out into the channel. But the wind was still ; we could make no headway. While we waited for the wind a portion of the crew passed away the time by taking a bath and swimming out into the deep. Their invitation to me to swim a race with them I was in the notion of accepting, when the sio-nal was given to make sail and get under way. All came on board, took off their swimming clothes, put on dry clothes, and caught hold at the anchor- breaking and later at the hauling out, so that it was a pleasure to see them. The brutal execution of discipline, so often censured on American merchant- ships, did not exist on board here. The whole crew were native Americans active and experienced fishermen. They associated with one another with good-will, eating at a common table to us all, and carried on their work with mutual satisfaction. Neither beer nor whisky is found on board ; but warm coffee and tea can be had from five in the morning to six o'clock in the evening. In other respects the victuals were good and nourishing, con- sisting mostly of beef, pork, all kinds of fresh fish, different kinds of pie and pudding, sometimes vegetables, with eggs occasionally ; in short, about as 1 66 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. in a frugal municipal family in Norway. The men were not hired, but had half the weight or a half share of the profits, which were calculated after the expenses of salting, packing, barrels, &c., were deducted. The cook, who besides the usual work in catching had to prepare the meals, got besides for his part $27.30 per month. The trip just ended had been made in three weeks, and had yielded a profit of a little over $81.90 net per man, which is considered a very good trip. The crew in herring fishing, on the con- trar)', is generally hired. They ship at $10.92 to $13.65 per month for boys; $32.76 to $40.95 for able-bodied fishermen. After being under sail a couple of days we saw a whole fleet of mackerel schooners. There were between eighty and ninety sail, some of which had made a light catch. We passed some steamers which carried on menhaden fishing, and which went into port every evening to unload. These vessels were quite recognizable by this, that they had two men on the lookout in the cross-trees, on the foremast, and the rest in boats prepared for fishing. Among other sail we passed also an old-fashioned French-rigged vessel, which carried on mackerel fishing with trolling lines ; the vessel was belayed and went before the wind. A crew of ten men stood to leeward, and each man with at least two hand-lines, which he incessantly cast out and hauled in, while two men ground bait (in a hand-mill) and threw out "chum." The catch was poor, and the mode of catching, itself, most fishermen had given up for capture with purse-seines, which have superseded all other implements. While crossing back and forth we often saw mackerel schools playing in the water, but they vanished suddenly. The folks told me that one could smell mackerel as well as menhaden when the large schools of fish were in the water. I entertained doubt of the truth of the information, but in the following week I became perfectly convinced of its authenticity. Early one morning one of the crew said that he smelt menhaden, and went immediate- ly aloft on the foremast to discover the school. A half hour later we saw a school playing on the surface of the water ; it was large mackerel. In haste everything was made ready ; the purse-seine, which lay on the after hatch coiled up in a bundle and wet with brine (to prevent rotting), was quickly lluno- down in the seine-boat, which was kept constantly in tow ; next, two small boats set out, so-called "dories," flat-bottomed, light-rowing boats, half ^'sjcegte" and half lighter. These are said to be the best fishing-boats known. When all was ready 1 leaped down into the boat, and away it went. After a half-hour's rowing the seine-boss found that the time had come to row in on a large school, which played quite delightfully. In three minutes the seine, of about 250 fathoms, was rowed out and cast in a circle around the school. After ten minutes more the seine was pursed, and in it ihcy estimated that they had caught 300 barrels of mackerel. A dory was sent with a message on board the schooner, which was managed by the cap- FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 167 tain and a small boy; after a little manceuvering the schooner sailed close to the seine, got a portion of the cork-line on board, so that the catch was brought between the vessel's side and the seine boat. A large dip-net, with tackle and a long handle, was made ready, and in a few minutes the living mackerel were thrown upon the deck by the half-barrel. The captured fish in the seine became, in the mean time, very uneasy, and rushed from one side of the seine to the other ; suddenly the seine burst in many places ; they sought to haul in the seine, both in the boats and on board, and after much trouble they succeeded in retaining and heaving on board a total of about 50 barrels. The rest of the mackerel escaped through the large holes in the seine. As soon as the catch was secured on board they took in all sail and be- gan on the preservation of the mackerel. With small dip-nets the fish were thrown in a square trough, and from this, as they were cut and washed, they were assorted according to size. The fish was split or cut in the belly (J) about as cod which are manufactured into split fish. While sprinkling them with salt they give them some slight cuts in the back to make the flesh swell and give the fish a fatter and fuller appearance. This is a trick which both the sellers and buyers understand. Twelve men are engaged at a time with the salting, while the remaining two men examine and repair the seine. In the space of two and a half hours 47 barrels stood ready salted. For every four barrels of fish was required one barrel of Liverpool salt, the packing being done later on shore. The next morning at 6 o'clock we were again in the boats, made a new cast, but caught nothing. At 8 o'clock we were again out, went half way round with the seine, when the whole school sank to the bottom. We caught nothing. The mackerel were wild and shy, played a little at the surface of the water, but vanished quickly, to emerge again farther away. The mack- erel schools were very large this day ; for as far as we could see on all sides they were playing on the surface of the water. We made no catch notwith- standing. The captain's attempt to entice the school with "chum" also failed. At 11 o'clock we again made a cast, but took only eight mackerel. At 2 o'clock, P. M., we made the fourth cast and got a couple of barrels ; at 4 o'clock, another cast, and took 10 barrels, but small mackerel ; and at 6 o'clock we made another, but got almost nothing save small fish. This was a laborious day ; but, notwithstanding, we were the next day, at 5.30 in the morning, again in the boat, made a cast, but simultaneously the school turned around and made their escape. We saw many schools also this day, and at 6.30 we were again on the way after one. This time we were suc- cessful. They estimated the catch in the seine at 400 to 500 barrels. They were very large and fat mackerel. After some trouble, the vessel sailed to us, got a portion of the seine on board, and the taking in the fish was about i68 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. to begin. But the fish were ver}^ uneasy in the seine ; sunk to the bottom with such force that the boat was on the point of capsizing, although we placed eight men on the other gunwale to counterbalance the mackerel. At one time all went smoothly enough to haul in on the seine and make the purse snaller and smaller to prevent the frantic rushing of the mackerel. But suddenly they sank again to the bottom, careened the boat over so that we took in a quantity of water. We were scarcely ready to place ourselves on the other gunwale when we felt that the boat suddenly righted itself and lay still. The most knew what had happened ; it was that the mackerel succeeded in breaking the old seine. Through a large hole, which became larger and larger, about the whole school escaped ; and although we in all haste hauled in on the fragments and tried to form a new purse, we suc- ceeded in saving not more than 5 in the whole 500 barrels. At 9.15 we set sail for the nearest port; it was considered useless to at- tempt to mend the more than half worn-out seine. After a day's quick sail- ing, we reached Boothbay in the evening. In the harbor lay a schooner just arrived, which was filled to the rail with fresh-caught mackerel. The crew worked the whole night in preserx'ing them. With resignation our crew saw this work. Had we had a better seine, we would also have had remunerative night-work in salting some hundreds of barrels of mackerel. The next morning I left the vessel, to return to Gloucester by steamer and railroad. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 169 The Merry, Merry Mackerel Catchers. BY JACOB S. LORD. Then it's laugh, "Ha! ha!" and shout, "Hur- rah ! " We are bound for the coast of Maine ; Our hold is well stored with salt and food, In the boat we've a fine new seine. The sun goes down as we round Eastern Point— For Monhegan our course is laid ; The watch is set — the pipes are lit, And a game of cards is played; A lively lad has a song to sing;^ Uncle Ben has a yarn to spin ; So pleasantly passes the time away Till eight bells, when all turn in, Except the lonely watch on deck, Whose measured tramp is heard As smoothly o'er the water skims Our vessel like a wild sea-bird. It is break of day — the sun peeps up, The morning's clear and cool. Aloft the lookout makes his way, To sight the early school. He espies the fleet — they are dead ahead — And right lustily does he shout To the skipper, who nervously walks the deck, " Yes, yes, the boats are out." Now all is life on the schooner's deck, As she ploughs thro' the sparkling brine ; Her crew in oiled clothes anxiously wait For a chance to wet the twine. "A school ! a school I " from the foremast- head Is the lookout's exciting call; " On. the weather bow ! it's showing red. Can't say if it's large or small." "Come down from aloft! haul up the boat! Out with the dory, tumble up here, cook! Work lively, lads— yes, cast her oft'. Pull out, and we'll have a look. Hold ! way enough ; ah, there they rise — Good fish ! I should say they were fine ; Now gently start her ahead, my boys. Quick, seine-master, give them twine ! Pull hard, my men ! now bend your backs I Lively! over with the corks, my friend; That's way enough — take on your oars, Pass along the dory's end; Jump to the purse-line, one and all, Give a long, strong and a steady pull; The rings are up— yes, take them on; By Jove I I believe she's full." And so it proved — of number twos. Right cheerily did we bail Till the skipper cries, " AVe've got enough, She's full from rail to rail," All night we worked at split and gib, Next day they were salted down. As the sun sank low in the ruddy west, We made sail for Gloucester town. 170 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Saving the Cable. BY DICK SKYLIGHT. One of the chief dangers to which a vessel at anchor on the Banks is lia- ble, is that of having another vessel drift across her bow during a gale. If this should happen there is little probability of either of them escaping de- struction. We had such an experience in the "gully" between Banquereau and Sable Island, on the 23d of June, 1877. The wind, which had blown fresh all day, increased towards sunset, and there was a sharp combing sea running. We paid out all our cable and cleared up things on deck. Just as it was growing dark I saw the Lizzie — which was lying directly ahead of us — break adrift and fall off broadside to the wind and sea. At first I thought her crew would heave in her cable and set sail to clear us, but as she kept drifting and had no riding-light up, I was reluctantly forced to the conclusion that the watch on board of her was asleep. If that was the case, the only thing to do in order to avoid a collision was to cut our cable and go adrift too, unless we could sheer our vessel away from her path. The tide was running to leeward, so that we had some command over our vessel with the helm \ one man was, therefore, stationed at the wheel ready for action ; the jib was cut loose, and a rope taken from the clew to each bow, so that we could sheer the vessel either way, as the case should demand. When the drifting vessel was about two hundred feet dis- tant, she was driving right athwart our hawse, so that our jib-boom pointed straight between her masts. We had previously fired our gun several times ; but as there was no sign of life on board of her, the moment to try our plan had arrived. While I stood ready with the axe to cut the cable in case of a failure, the wheel was quickly put hard-a-starboard, the jib run up and hauled well over on the starboard bow, so that it caught aback, and our ves- sel slowly sheered to port, while we held our breath in suspense. The ma- nceuvre succeeded very well indeed, for we passed around her stern with- out striking. It was a close shave though, for her main-boom cleared our rigging by only a few feet. The quietness and good "order that our crew had observed, while danger threatened and discipline was necessary, were now broken by a general yell, which brought the other crew on deck, bare- headed and stocking-footed, to receive, from my justly indignant men, some remarks and advice that were certainly forcible if not polite. But we saved our cable, and, as a consequence, could continue fishing, and therefore felt thankful that nothing worse had happened. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 171 [model of a georgksman, 1882.] A Summer Trip to Georges. BY WALTER HILL, Outward Bound — Soundings — Lively Work — Fulling in the Cod and Halibut — A Good Fare — Homeward Bound. As our bait is iced, and we are all ready for a start, you had better jump on board and take a trip with us. We hoist mainsail and foresail, trip the anchor, fill away the jib, and stand out of Gloucester Harbor. That little island with the lighthouse on it, which we are leaving on the port or left hand side, is Ten Pound Island, outside of which is the outer anchorage, and still beyond is Eastern Point, also on the port hand, on which you ob- serve is another lighthouse. To the westward of us the land stretches away to Salem and Marblehead. Now turn and look at the scene we are leaving. Beautiful, is it not ? The city of Gloucester is stretched out like a panora- ma. The City Hall, a noble building, and the church steeples, are the most prominent features ; not forgetting the Pavilion Hotel on the beach. The innumerable fishing schooners, standing in all directions with their snow- white cotton sails, give an animation to the scene not often equalled. Away on the starboard quarter you may catch glimpses of the high-road to Mag- nolia and Salem. And now, with a freshening breeze, the sun dipping to the westward, and the land gradually fading behind us, we are bowling off with our head east- southeast for Georges. There'll be fish on deck before to-morrow night if 172 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. the wind holds good and fortune favors us — that is, if you don't turn out to be a Jonah ! Fishermen are pretty superstitious, and have a great belief in Jonahs. Should it unfortunately happen that we do not make a good trip this time, being a green liand, you will surely be dubbed a Jonah. However, greenhorns are generally assumed to be lucky till the contrary is proved ; which will explain to j^ou the suaviter in modo with which they seem to treat you. But there is the cook blowing his whistle to call us to supper ; so we will go down and make a "square meal," and then prepare for a nap. "Hallo, there ! rouse out, old boy; do you calculate on sleeping all day? The whistle went for breakfast long since, and the old cook will be clearing tlie table off if you don't soon put in an appearance." Make a good break- fast, and no signs of the landsman's malady yet. "Glad to hear it; you're quite a Trojan." We have carried a spanking breeze all night, and have come about sixty- five miles since we started. Suppose we round her to and get a cast of the lead ; one hundred and twenty fathoms of line out, and no bottom. We'll stand along a while longer. Meanwhile, I'll rig a line for you to fish with. We use two hooks to each line with a snood of about one and a half fath- oms to each hook, depending from the bottom of the lead. Having got a basket of bait up from the hold, we'll take another sound ; seventy-five fath- oms, hard bottom ; we'll have a try here, lads. Down go the lines, and, bye-and-bye, Tom commences hauling. "What have you got on, Tom? A snapper (a small codfish), I guess, I've got something small on, too." They're too small here to pay us, so we'll go further for a field. My olfac- tories inform me that the cook is progressing favorably; so we will have dinner before sounding again. I don't want to make any invidious remarks, but the sea air seems to act magically on our appetites. Now for another sound ; sixty fathoms — that's better. " By Jove ! that jerk was from no small fish. There, he smells around again. Aha ! I've captured you this time, old boy." Hallo ! Tom, Harry, Dick, all hauling as if for a wager. Bear a hand, boys, and heave tliat anchor off the bow before she drifts away from the "school." We're on fish this time, and no mistake. Let her have a good scope of cable, and furl the sails. There ! we are all snug. And now, gentle reader, whoever you may be, for whom I rigged that line, you may take the next berth alongside of me and try your luck. Heave over your snoods with the baited hook first, and then the lead, taking care that the snoods go down clear, as on that depends whether you haul up one fish or a pair. Hold the line in check a little, as it runs down, or the tide will run it out in a bite, and it will foul the other lines coming up with fish on them ; and then you'll get — anything but blessings. Directly you feel your lead strike bottom, haul back a little, so as to leave the hooks dang- ling at or near the bottom. That's very well ; watch the rest and you'll FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 173 soon get initiated. There ! you have got a bite, and a good one, too ; haul steadily away, you'll find sixty fathoms a long haul, but that won't trouble you after a day or so. He's alongside, take him aboard with the gaff. I've got a pair coming, too. That won't do, however ; your hands will soon get torn and scratched if you try to unhook the fish before killing him. Hit him on the head with a short stick the first thing after you get him on deck. There's a knack, too, in unhooking ; see how easy it comes to me — a twist and a jerk, and it's all done. Faster and faster the fish begin to come ; everybody working like beavers ; the fish hooking themselves as fast as the lines reach the bottom. What a scene of animation ! Some gaffing in fish, others killing, some unhooking, and others, again, clearing a foul. H-s-s, h-s-s, see your lines ! By Jove ! my boy, you've got a halibut on. Easy now. That fish is worth a five-dollar bill to you if you get him up. There he snubs — give him line — don't hold him too hard, or he will break the gear. He is beginning to stay his downward course — hold him. Now he runs up ; take in the line smartly, or he may unhook himself. H-s-s, h-s-s, he's taking another downward dive and making the line smoke again. Stand by to haul him away as he tires. Up he runs again. Keep him well in [got a halibut on.] hand now ; stand by with gafifs, here, two or three hands. There he heaves in sight. A one hundred and fifty pounder, at least. Stick the gaffs in his head, and be sure to get a good hold. Now, then, yeo ! heave-ho ! all to- gether ! up with his flat lordship. Slap, oh ! he falls on deck, and such a floundering, thrashing time of it you never saw. Hit him a tap or two with the killer just over the nose. That quiets him. Now get him away clear of the gear, and heave your lucky line over again. 174 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Thus we go till near nightfall, when we haul in lines and dress the fish secured. Two gangs form to dress down, one on each side of the vessel. One man pitches the fish along into the tub for dressing ; the next cuts off the head and slits the fish down the belly; a third takes out the gut and deposits the liver in a basket by his side; while a fourth "splits" the fish and takes out the backbone ; and from his hand it goes into a tub of water and thence into the hold of the Salter. The halibut are then gutted and put into the ice-house, as they have to be kept fresh. We've got, to-day about i,ooo pounds weight of halibut and 3,000 pounds weight of codfish-a very good days work, considering it was dinner-time when we struck fish A week of this fishing, and we shall use up all our bait; but then, it is seldom tish stay in one place so long in Summer time. I ^' ll"7 ^Z ^T ''"'" """ ^°' °" ^^" ^^"^' ^"^' a'fJ^o^Sh we did not keep the first ''school" round us more than three or four day?, we have been fortunate enough to strike them again since, and have made a rousing trip o taliL Th'^'°" ^T^" ""-^'^ "' '^'' ^°''^^ ^"^ 4,000 pound weighS of halibut The crew will make about fifty dollars apiece on an avera^^ not a bad fortnight's work. As the wind is fair, I think we may purher h ad for Gloucester. Things don't always go so smoothly as they have thi r yth'ng ' " ""'""" " '"' '''"' '" ''^^ "^'""^ "^^^^"^ ^^^^ FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 175 Eob's First Cruise. BY S. G. D. It was an event of importance when John Wayne bought the Phillis with the accumulated savings of many years, and began to go master of his own vessel. He and his wife Margery had discussed the matter many times and weighed the pros and cons carefully before the purchase was completed. And when the bargain was fully concluded, and the Phillis was brought round to the little cove before the cottage door, the repairing and painting and outfitting of the PhiUis was a topic of ever fresh and all-absorbing in- terest to John and Margery, and Rob and little Ran ; and the fishermen at the cove, and all the boys in the region roundabout came by twos and threes to critically inspect and comment on John Wayne's craft. Proudest of all was Rob. "Father '11 go skipper now," he remarked glee- fully. "I'll tell you what, I shall be skipper a good part of the time when I play with the cove boys, that is, if I play with them any more now. I think I am big enough to leave school and go cook. Can't I go, father ? I shall be thirteen next Spring, you know, and I have got to the Rule of Three in arithmetic." John Wayne thought, however, it would be wiser for Rob to keep on at his ciphering awhile longer, and when the long Summer vacation came, he should go two or three trips and see how he liked fishing. But he must learn a little about cooking first. And with that Rob had to be content. Did ever the weeks of a term of school before stretch out so endlessly ? Long before vacation came Rob had become quite an adept in the making of bread and molastes short-cake, and in the preparation of various dishes adapted to the menu of a Galilee fisherman. But, as an end comes to all terrestrial things, tedious howsoever they may be, so there came a blissful day when Rob danced home with his books, too happy to walk soberly, now that the vacation had really come. And for once he was in great luck ; for the Phillis was in and would be ready to sail for the fishing ground the first of the following week. What a perfect Summer morning it was when Rob proudly sailed away on his first cruise just as the rays of the rising sun illumined the sparkling sea. Margery fondly looked after her boy so gaily swinging his hat, and her hus- band standing at the tiller, till she could distinguish them no longer, and then she watched the Phillis till it was a mere speck on the blue waters of the bay. And when she turned to her morning tasks how still and lonely 176 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. GETTING THE "PHILLIS READY FOR THE SEASONS WORK. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 177 the house seemed now that her noisy boy was no longer in it. Little Ran was still quietly sleeping, and it would be perhaps two or three hours before he would wake and want his breakfast. Margery sat down to do a few rows on her net, but the stillness was so oppressive that it presently became un- bearable, and she arose and went out to work awhile in her garden, in the dewy freshness and coolness of the morning. Bye-and-bye she heard Ran's voice at the open window. "Where isWob ? " he asked. " Rob has gone with papa in the Phillis. Don't you remember he carried his clothes aboard last night ? He got up very early and went away while you were fast asleep." •'I want Wob ! " was the response, with a gush of tears. Margery's heart echoed the cry as she went in to console her little one and to get him his breakfast of bread and milk. The day was long for Margery, and long for little Ran, who missed his playmate. And when he went to bed he asked, "Will Wob tum in the night?" And in the morning the first question was, "Will Wob tum to-day?" And the questions were daily asked, morning and night, during Rob's absence. The days went by one after another, till a fortnight had passed, and it was time to look for the Phillis. And Margery, sitting at her net, or chat- ting with some neighbor who had come in, often looked out on the bay, hoping to catch a glimpse of a white sail that was dearer to her than all the other white sails fhtting to and fro on the broad blue sea. There came a day when the Summer sun shone fiercely down on a parched earth. All the morning there was an ominous stillness in the air. There was no note of bird or sound of insect, and even the waters for once seemed hushed into absolute silence. When Margery had finished her midday meal, she went to the door and sent a sweeping glance over the darkening waters. She saw a sail — yes, it was the sail she longed to see. But what a lurid light filled the air, and what threatening clouds were piling up in great masses towards the zenith. "O if they were but here," she sighed. The storm broke long before the craft Margery's eyes so eagerly watched could reach a haven. How the lightning flashed, and the thunder roared, and the wind swept round the little house on the headland ! How the rain poured in a blinding sheet, that shut out from Margery's sight the vessel on the tossing billows of the bay ! She drew back from the window, and clasp- ing closely Ran in her arms, she waited for the power of the tempest to be spent. Hours passed by, but still the wind blew a gale, and the rain fell in torrents, when the shades of night gathered, and darkness covered the face of the mighty deep. A sleepless night it was for Margery Wayne, and when day dawned, though the rain had ceased to fall, a turbulent, stormy sea was still lashed 178 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. and vexed by the wind. And as it grew lighter not a sail was to be seen on the bay. Where was the Phillis and her crew ? It was nearly noon, when one of the cove boys burst open the cottage door, and cried out abruptly, " They've found the name of the Phillis over there on the rocks, and they're bringing it up here." Pale and speechless, Margery sank into the nearest seat. Ran felt that something had happened. "What is it?" he asked; "Is Wob tummin and my faver .'"' "O Ranold, Ranold," cried his mother, "your father will never come home any more, and Rob will never come back to us !" The sign was brought up and laid on the grass-plot before the door. Yes, it was the very sign that John Wayne had painted with such patient and loving care. In what fearful moment was it wrenched from its hold, and where now were the timbers of the Phillis scattered, and where alas I was the brave crew ?" One, two, three days went by. It was a golden Summer afternoon, and the sea was as gentle and placid as if it had never been storm-tossed. Mar- gery, pale and listless sat, slowly drawing her netting-needle in and out through the meshes of her net. She was stunned. It was not possible yet to think of the future, and so she went on doing mechanically as she had done. Ran, rosy, dimpled and dewy-eyed, scarcely awake from his after- noon nap, stood looking out of the cottage door. His long silence attracted Margery's attention. She turned her head wearily to see what he was doing. "What is Rannie looking at?" she asked indifferenly. "My faver's boat," said the little one sturdily. "My faver is tummin some more, and Wob, too ! I sees 'em my own self." Margery's heart gave a great throb. Another instant and she stood beside Ran. Did her eyes deceive her, or was it a phantom craft that was round- ing the headland and sailing so noiselessly into the little cove ? Was it really her husband giving directions to his crew, and Rob himself waving his hat as joyously as when he sailed away, or were her senses leaving her ? Ah, yes, she notes now, with a sob of relief, that the name is gone from the bow, but the vessel otherwise seems as staunch as ever. The Phillis had been blown off shore and somewhat strained, but had received no other injury save the loss of her name, which had been inse- curely fastened and which the capricious waves must wash up on the cove rocks, and so cause Margery Wayne such days and nights of anguish. The vessel itself had been in a safe harbor before dark on the night of the storm. Rob had come home in high feather. He had been all about the city with his father while the Phillis was lying wind-bound. His father had found a good market for his fish, and Rob had taken part of his earnings to buy for himself a four-bladed knife, and for Ran a most wonderful gun, FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK, 179 that could be half cocked and wholly cocked, and that would make a great noise. Rob went three trips that Summer, and he was quite a hero among the cove boys when he went back to school in the Fall. His knife was the envy and admiration of all the other boys, and often while he was busy carv- ing elder into fanciful shapes, he was wont to hold forth to an eager audi- ence his narrative, invariably commencing, "When I went my first trip in the Fhi/Hs—" Lost in the Fog. In the preceding pages are given many instances of fishermen lost in the fog on the Banks, and of great sufferings caused thereby from hunger and exposure. The above engraving did not reach us in season to be placed in that chapter, so we insert it here. It illustrates an instance where two poor fellows are thus adrift on the wide expanse of waters. One is stand- ing up, pointing, seemingly, at some slight object which may be dimly dis- cerned, to which the attention of his companion, who has stopped rowing and is anxiously looking, is directed. Or it may be that they are holding a consultation as to which dierction it would be best to pull, in order to meet with some vessel or fall in with the land, and thus escape the perils which surround them. It is a perilous position to be placed in, especia4Iy without food or drink, and we do earnestly hope that each dory while onifebe- grounds will in future be well provided with these important articles.. FISHERMEN'S O WN BOOK. Crippled on the ''Home Stretch." BY DICK SKYLIGHT. No branch of the fishery is so uncertain, as to the returns, as that for halibut. One vessel may get a high price for her fish, while a second, a few days or hours later, by striking an overstocked market, may receive not more than half as much. As the success of the trip therefore depends very much on the rapidity of the homeward passage, sail is crowded on, even to the point of extreme danger, and the " home stretch " frequently becomes the most exciting part of the whole trip, demanding the best seamanship and skill on the part of the skipper and crew. Fishermen as a class take especial pride in the sea-going qualities of the vessel they sail in, and esteem most highly her ability to carry a crowd of sail in a fresh breeze. This particular pride is often more forcibly exhib- ited— perhaps recklessly so — by the men composing the crews than by the skippers, since upon the latter rests the responsibility. It is sometimes quite amusing to overhear some of the remarks of the men on deck in re- lation to carrying sail. " I tell yer what 'tis," says one to his watch-mate, " the old critter's stiff 's a church." " Yes," replies the other, " the old gal can wear her muslin 'bout 's long 's any of 'em. I don't believe them they blow so much about can stand it much longer ; not if the old man's a mind to lug it on her." This desire to " lug it on her " is expressed, too, when the little schooner is probably buried all under water on the lee side, and the spars and sails are strained to the utmost. On more than one occasion I have, myself, barely escaped evil consequences from carrying a " taut rag " when homeward bound. One night in March, 1878, we left the Grand Bank just at the commence- FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. i8i ment of a southeast storm, which rapidly augmented in fury. About 3 o'clock in the morning all hands were called to take in the staysail, after which the dories were turned bottom up and lashed securely. This work occupied about an hour, when all but myself and the watch went below. The night was intensely dark, and all that it was possible to see was the sparkle of the spray as it flew from the bow, and the luminous phosphores- cent track behind our vessel, as, with her sheets well off, she rushed throuear him safely o'er Tiiy pathless, billowy space, That we may gladsome be At sight of that dear face. Buoy up his vessel well, Ye waves, your force subdue; No sullen humors take, ]{ut to your charge be true. Around the schooner's prow In tiny wavelets break, O treacherous, heaving sea, For his dear sake. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 229 Picking the Nets and Trawls, Wherein We Find Good Hauls of Facts, Incidents, Off-Hand Sketches, and Items of Interest Concerning the Fishennen and Their Calling, Important to Fishermen. — The Direct United States Cable Company have charts for the guidance and information of fishermen, showing the lo- cation of the company's cables, with the depths of water, and request cap- tains to give them a wide berth. Should any vessel, however, lose her anchor or cable by reason of coming in contact with the telegraph cable, and will use every endeavor to save the same from damage, the company will reimburse the loss, subject to adjustment, upon being satisfied that the claim is a just one. On the fourth page of the advertising department may be found full particulars, and it being of great public interest, we thus call attention to it. The sum of $100 was received by Collector Babson in March, i88r, from the Direct United States Cable Co., as compensation for the loss of anchor by sch. Oliver Eldridge, Capt. John Scott. The schooner was at anchor on Brown's Bank, and had drifted during a high wind and fouled the telegraph cable. Upon ascertaining the fact, Capt. Scott oit his cable and reported the case to Collector Babson, who sent on the evidence, and the company promptly paid the damages. The honorable manner in which the company proposes to deal with our fishermen should entitle it to the most careful consideration when they are fishing in the vicinity of the cable, by using every precaution to avoid fouling it, and when fouling, to cut at once rather than run the risk of injuring the cable. .sste^^ Interesting Statistics Gleaned from Exper- iments OF THE U. S. Fish Commission in Glouc- ester.— The loss of weight of codfish from the round to the market-dried fish is from 54)4 to 65 >^ per cent., the average loss being about .6023, dis- tributed as follows : Loss in splitting, .4044 ; loss in pickle, .1496 ; loss on flakes, .0483. The shrink- age in length from the round to the split fish is from 65^ to 11^ inches. By extra drying, in the warmest weather, the average loss in weight is about a half per cent. more. The loss of weight of Georges cod in curing, after being split and salted on board the vessel, averages about iij^ percent. The average loss in weight of market-dried fish in boning is nearly 22 per 230 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. cent (.219). Pollock, from the round to the market-dried fish lose on an average 59 8-10 per cent., and shrink in length from 8 to 12 inches. Had- dock shrink in length from the round to the marked-dried fish from 4 to 5)^ inches, and lose in weight 62 3-10 per cent. The loss of weight in hake from the round to the market-dried fish averages 555^ percent., the loss in length from 43^ to 10 inches. Cusk lose from the round to the market- dried fish 50)^ per cent, in weight and from 4)2 to 7^ inches in length. Protecting Trawl and Net Fishermen. — The following is the full text of the bill approved March 11, 1882, to take effect forty days thereafter, for the protection of the rights of lobster, net and trawl fishermen : "Any person who shall take any fish or lobster from any trap, trawl or seine set for catching fish or lobsters, except by consent of the owner there- of, and any person who shall wilfully molest or interfere with such trap, trawl or seine, shall for the first offence be punished by a fine of not less than five nor more than twenty-five dollars, or by both fine and imprison- ment ; and for any subsequent olTence by a fine of not less than twenty nor more than fifty dollars, or by imprisonment for sixty days, or both fine and imprisonment." Some Mackerel Trips Forty-five Years Ago. — A blue-covered pass book preserved among the papers of Messrs. James Mansfield & Sons, gives an account of the outfits of a schooner commanded by Capt. Ignatius Syl- vester of Riverdale, on half a dozen or more mackerel trips in the Summer and Fall of 1837. The book is in the handwriting of Capt. George W. Plumer, with occasional entries in the writing of Mr. James Mansfield, then the head of the firm, both of whom are still living, and indicates that besides Capt. Sylvester the crew consisted of George Stanwood, Addison Grifiin, Tristram Griffin, Henry Stanwood, John Parsons and Issac Babson, all of whom with the exception of the two last named are still among the living. Three of the number, Messrs. Sylvester, Henry Stanwood and George Stan- wood commanded vessels in the employ of the Messrs. Mansfield for an aggregate of one hundred years. The accounts are made out in the form of "Great General" and "Small General," the former covering salt, fuel and lights, bait and use of bait mill ($2), and the latter including provisions, hooks, lines, leads, sawing wood, etc. The time covered by the pass book was from June 30 to Nov. 16. The fuel consisted of wood, a cord and five feet being required for the season, at $7 per cord. For light four gallons and a quart of oil at $1.10 per gallon, and six pounds of candles at 15 cents per pound, were required. We find only 3 bbls. of bait charged, 2 at $2.25 and I at $2.75. Salt was billed at $3.30 and ?3.37/4 per hhd., all but 9 hhds. at the higher rate, and 37 hhds. were taken on board, of which a por- tion was returned. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 231 The meat provided, excepting 53 cents worth of veal, consisted of 142 lbs. beef at 8 cents per lb., and 170^ lbs. pork, from 12 to 14 cts. per lb.; 203 lbs. flour were supplied at (>%, cts. per lb., 4 pecks meal at 34 cts. per peck, 445 lbs. bread from 7)^ to 8>^ cts. per lb., 5^ bush, potatoes from 40 to 67 cts. per bush., 59 gals, molasses at 34 and 36 cts. per gal, 2il lbs. rice at 5 and 6 cts. per lb., 3 bush, beans at 8 cts. per qt., 2 gals, vinegar at 20 cts. per gal., a can of mustard, a pound of saleratus and a bottle of pep- per sauce. For drink there were 35 lbs. coffee at ten cents per pound, and I lb. chocolate at 22 cents. 34^ lbs. of lard were used at 10 cts. per lb., and the butter and cheese bill was very moderate, (i;^^only 72 cts. A Singular Circumstance. — Dec. 15, 1865, sch. Live Yankee, then owned at this port by Daniel Sayward, while anchored on Georges during a heavy sea, un- fe shipped her bowsprit shroud, which was lost overboard? f^ and when she returned to port a new one was furnished by Mr. Addison Witham, rigger. The next Spring, while the crew were engaged in fishing on Georges, one of them caught something on his hook, and pulling up, was surprised to find a bowsprit shroud at- tached. Supposing themselves to be anchored over the wreck of some Georgesman, they brought the shroud in, and called some of the riggers to examine it for the purpose of identification, and thus to gain information of a lost vessel. Among them was Mr. Witham, who at once pronounced it the one lost by the Live Yankee the December previous. He was positive of this, as it had a very peculiar long-shanked hook, different from any other in our fleet, and it corresponded exactly with the other one which is still in use on the vessel. It was in good condition, with the exception of some parts of it being covered with small barnacles. It was indeed singular that it should be hooked up in the manner it was, by one of the crew of the ves- sel from which it was lost. The Isinglass Industry. — The first establishment in this countr}' for the manufacture of isinglass from fish sounds was set up in Rockport, Mass., in 1822, by a Mr. Hall, an Englishman, who came to the town for that pur- pose, because he could best buy here the hake sounds he wished to use. His shop was out near the end of the neck, the same building Mr. Addison Gott now uses as a fish house. He first used wooden rollers, which had the disadvantage of warmth and adhesiveness. Besides, his rollers were turned by hand power, two men to a roller, making very unsteady work ; it is said the wages of this human power was from thirty to forty cents a day. After some years, iron rollers were introduced, and the next improvement was horse power, using a treadmill. Mr. Hall, within a few years after he start- 232 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. ed here, took in Jabez Rowe as partner, and they continued together some years. After some twelve years here Mr. Hall died, and tradition says was quite poor. In the course of time Deacon Gott, Messrs. William Burns and William Norwood became interested in the dawning enterprise, and they built the now old Rockport Sound Factory on Dock Square. "^Fhey had in- troduced steam power and many other later improvements. The price at first paid for sounds was usually five or six cents a pound. One year, when the price was held as high as eight cents, they thought of abandoning the business on account of the enormous cost of sounds. This seems singular to us, who in our time have known sounds to bring over $1.50 a pound. Two Old Jokers. — Among the fishermen of Maine who formerly sailed from Gloucester was Captain Ezra T — , a great wit in his way, and always ready with a joke or repartee. On one occasion, while engaged in the mack- erel fishery, he had as one of his crew Hiram S — , who was noted among his compeers for having a remarkably large head. The last-named individ- ual being employed one day in stowing mackerel barrels in the hold of the vessel, a discussion arose as to whether a barrel would go in a certain place or not. Captain T — , who was on deck, happening to overhear the remarks, pro and con, of the men in the hold, leaned over the hatchway and, speak- ing to S — , said, "Shove your head in there," Hi. (an abbreviation for Hi- ram)— '■'■if your head will go, a barrel tvill /'' But Captain T — met his match on one occasion in his friend and neigh- bor. Captain R — . As the story was told, the former, who was sometimes addicted to convivial habits, crooked his elbow rather too frequently one evening, and having to pass through a growth of woods on his way home, got astray. After struggling through underbrush and other obstructions, and losing his hat, he finally reached the house of his friend R — , who, of course, supplied him with a hat, and started him on the right track for home. A few months later Captain T — was engaged in trading along the coast of Maine in his vessel, and, among other things, had some furniture to sell. One day he called at the house of Captain R — , and tried to induce the lat- ter to buy something. After enumerating the various kinds of goods he had for sale, a thought struck him, and he asked, "Don't you want to buy a table, R — ?" R — , who had a large family, replied, "Dod blast it, no ! I've more tables now than I can fill with grub." "I believe that," said T — , "but, at least, you ought to have one respectable table on which to put gen- tlemen's hats, when any, like me, for instance, comes to see you." "Oh, yes, that's so," exclaimed R — , "but when gentlemen WkQ you come to see me, they generally come drunk and bareheaded." FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 233 Every Part of the fish is now utilized, the skin being the last to find its place among merchantable articles. This is used for the man- ufacture of fish glue and cement, and the product is ranked among the best in the world. There are two companies in Gloucester en- gaged in its manufacture, and their business is constantly increasing. The raw material is held at $12 per ton, at which price it finds a ready sale. The skins are also used in the manufacture of guano, and now that the bone- less fish industry has assumed such large proportions these skins form a large source of profit to the fish dealers. The First Trawl Fisherman of whom we have any record was Mr. Coleman Manning of Rockport, whose unexampled success in fishing was long a mystery to his fellow fishermen, until the secret was discovered, caus- ing considerable indignation at the method pursued, as it was thought it would damage the fisheries. This was about 1852, and the trawl roll used by Mr. Manning, an uncouth-looking affair, has been presented to the Na- tional Museum of the United States. Mr. John Rowe, of East Gloucester, claims to have set a trawl across Brace's Cove, in May, 1820, but the prac- tice was not then followed up. Menhaden Factories. — The number of menhaden factories in operation last year, 1881, was 97, employing 73 steamers and 286 sailing vessels, with 2,805 "Tie", who caught 457,192,000 fish, from which were made 1,266,549 gallons of oil and 27,592 tons of crude or 15,027 tons of dried guano. The Materials of Which Fish Are Composed. — Considered from the standpoint of the food, fish, as we buy them in the market, consist of flesh, or edible portion, and refuse — bones, skin, entrails, etc. The proportions of refuse in different samples of the same kind, in different conditions, vary widely. Thus a sample of flounder contained 68 per cent. of refuse and only 32 per cent, of flesh, while one of halibut steak had only 18 per cent, of refuse and 82 per cent, of edible materials. Among those with the most refuse and least edible flesh are the flounder, porgy, bass and perch. Among those with the least refuse are fat shad, fat mackerel, salmon, and dried and salt fish. The edible portions consist of water and solids, actual nutrients. The proportion of water and 234 FISHERMEN'S O IVN BOOK. solids in the flesh of various kinds of fish is much more variable than most people would suppose. Thus the flesh of flounders had 85 per cent, of wa- ter and only 15 per cent, of solids, while that of salmon contained 3654 per cent, solids and d^Yz per cent, water, and the flesh of dried, smoked and salt fish have still less water. Lean beef contains, on the average, 25 per cent, or one-quarter its weight of solids, the other three-quarters being wa- ter, while fat pork has one-half solids. Ordinary fresh meats are from one- half to three-fourths water, while the water in the fresh fish varies from three-fifths to six-sevenths of the whole. To find the actual nutritive mate- rials of a sample of fish, we must first subtract the refuse — the entrails, bones, etc. — which leaves the flesh. Then we must allow for the water in the flesh. What remains will be the total edible solids, the actual nutritive material. The per centages of edible solids in the different samples of fish were more varied than those of refuse and water. Thus 100 pounds of flounders contained only 5 pounds of actual nutrients; 100 pounds of had- dock, 9 pounds; of bluefish, 11 pounds; of cod, 12 pounds; salt mackerel, 16 pounds ; shad, 16 pounds ; salt cod, 20 pounds ; salmon, 27 pounds; and smoked herring 28 pounds. — Sea World. Georges Bank. — For the benefit of many who will peruse this volume we will state that Georges Bank is 190 miles east-southeast from Cape Ann, and about a twenty hours' run in a good breeze for one of our fishermen. There is shoal water fishing and deep water fishing — the latter requiring from 100 to 150 fathoms of line, and is comparatively new, the first season of its success being in 1876. LaHave Bank is 100 miles east of Georges, and fishing thereon has been commenced by our fleet within the past five years. The Old Man's Yarn. — An Of-fish-al Narra- tive.— 'Twas in the Summer of 'seventeen, as fine an August day as you have ever seen. Our Sary Ann, upon the beach, set up a most unearthly screech, and in a fit she fell. From cot and wind- mill near at hand, alarmed to hear her yell, quick out upon the glistening sand the neighbors rushed pell-mell. No need of words from Sary Ann, what startled her to tell, for every maid and every man, who to the beach so quickly ran, soon saw a sight that caused a fright, and made them feel from head to heel as limp as this umb'rel. For there, two hundred yards from shore, a monster none had seen before, upreared its hideous head ; with fork-ed tongue and eyes of flame, and looks of menace, on it came, as FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 235 if to strike them dead ; the waters half a mile away were lashed with fury into spray each time it moved its tail, and all the way between rose hump on hump of olive green, like huge waves in a gale. Glad hearts were theirs who watched that day — to apprehension dire a prey — to see the monster turn aside and from the harbor quickly glide. Horse mackerel and porpoise schools will do to talk about to fools ; but we who lived in 'seventeen know that the sea serpent was seen. Veteran Craft. — Pinkey Senator, 32.67 tons, built at Essex in 183 1, is still owned at this port. Sch. Afin Parker^ built at Wells, Me., in 1850, is owned at Pigeon Cove. Pinkey Albatross, of Castine, Me., built in 1829, was at this port with a load of barrels in the Summer of 1881. The whaler Mt. Wallaston, whose wreck was discovered in the ice of the Arctic ocean in 188 1, formerly hailed from Gloucester at a time when it was proposed to establish the whaling business from this port. She sailed on her first vo}^- age Jan. 9, 1834. Four months out she was spoken with 250 bbls. of oil ; Oct. 20, 1834, with 750 bbls.; Dec. 14, with 1,200 bbls. She arrived home May 17, 1835, with 1,600 bbls., 150 sperm, and 13,000 lbs. bone. The voyage did not prove so successful as had been anticipated, but she was again fitted out, and sailed on her second voyage in July, 1835. In August she was spoken, having taken four whales. Jan. 13, 1836, she was again spoken, and reported 2,200 bbls. March 29 she arrived home with 1,600 bbls. whale, 550 sperm, and 16,000 lbs. bone. This would now be consid- ered a successful voyage, but on account of the low price of oil it was not then regarded as satisfactory, and the ship was sold at auction for $4,510 to J. B. Osgood of Salem, from which port she made several voyages. Something about Lobsters. — It has often been stated that "in general lobsters change their shell once a year, and it is a painful operation." A friend of ours in this city, who has an aquarium, states that he has a lobster which changed his shell three times within a year. He is also of opinion that when in the sea where they get a full supply of such food as they re- quire, that they change their shells even oftener than this, as it is necessary for them to do so, in order to grow. Can any one give us any more light on this subject ? There is no doubt that the blasting of Hell Gate destroyed immense quantities of lobsters ; so great a dread have lobsters of thunder that they will cast off their big claws when a loud clap occurs or when a gun is fired. In olden times captains of vessels often extorted blackmail from lobster fishermen by threatening to fire cannon over the fishing grounds, knowing 236 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. full well that the concussion would cause the lobsters to cast their claws, thereby destroying their value. Lobster spearing is pursued in the Indian fashion, by torchlights. A dark, calm night and a falling tide are the first requisites, and the crew of the canoe must consist of three — one to row, one to hold the torch so that its light will fall through the shallow water and light up the bottom to show the lobsters crouched among the seaweed ; and last, but not least, the spear- er, armed with a long wooden spear, which it requires considerable skill and practice to drive down, so that the two prongs will close over the lobster's back, capturing him firmly, leaving the body uninjured. It is a sport both exciting and picturesque, as the boat creeps along under the shadow of the bank and the torch casts a Rembrandtish light on the occupants and on the overhanging trees. The captive lobsters sometimes make very unpleasant occupiers of a boat, and it requires great equanimity to feel them crawling about one's feet. A Faithful Beacon Light. — It is a very tender story of faithfulness in humble places, which Jean Ingelow relates. It was in one of the Orkney Islands, far beyond the north of Scotland. On the coast of this island there stood a rock called Lonely Rock, very danger- ous to mariners. On a night, long ago, a young girl was kneeling at the window in her chamber in a fisherman's cottage, looking out upon the dark and driving clouds, and listening anxious- ly to the wind and sea. At last the morning came, and one boat that should have been rid- ing on the waves was missing. It was her fa- ther's boat, and half a mile from the cottage her father's body was found washed upon the sand. He had been wrecked against the Lone- ly Rock. The girl watched her father's body, according to the customs of her people, till it was laid in the grave, then she lay down on her bed and slept. When the night came she arose and set a candle in her casement. All night she sat by the candle, trimmed it when it flickered down, and spun. So many hanks of yarrt as she had spun before for her daily bread, she spun still, and one hank over for her nightly candle. And from that time to the time of telling this story — for fifty years, through youth, maturity, into old age — she has turned night into day. And in the snowstorms of winter, in the serene calms of Summer, through driv- ing mists, deceptive moonlight and solemn darkness, that northern harbor FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 237 has never once been without the Hght of that small candle. However far the fisherman might be standing out to sea, he had only to bear down straight for that lighted window, and he was sure of a safe entrance. And so for all these fifty years that tiny light, flaming thus out of devotion and self-sacrifice, has helped, and cheered, and saved. Rare Fish. — Sch. Laura Nelson, Capt. Roderic Morrison, arrived from Grand Bank in July, 1881, bringing in a very curious fish taken from the stomach of a halibut caught on the western end of the Bank. It measured three feet, one inch, in length, and about two inches through, and was of a silvery color, having a sharp-pointed head, with a projecting flexible under jaw, and a small fan-shaped tail. It was presented to Capt. Martin, local representative of the U. S. Fish Commission, by whom it was forwarded to Prof. Baird at Woods Holl. The professor is of the opinion that it is of a new genus and new species, closely allied to the scabbard fish, of which two or three specimens have been received from the Banks. Look Out for the Raw Material. — It is a mistake for any community to allow its raw material to be carried away, to have its value increased by labor somewhere else. Gloucester is learning this to some extent, and the preparation of boneless fish, the canning of mackerel, and the manufacture of fish glue and fertilizers are all steps in the right direction, making labor for many hands, and enhancing the value of our fish products. The prac- tice of selling mackerel out of pickle, on the other hand, which has grown up of late years, is a step in the wrong direction, as the profits of packing and inspection might just as well be kept at home. Selling from pickle all the early part of the season, and thus giving to other markets the profits of handling the catch, and compelling purchasers to seek their supplies else- where than at the producing headquarters, will, ere long, cause Gloucester to lose its prestige as a mackerel market, and the later catch of home in- spection will have to seek a market through second hands. Gloucester is a loser by many thousands of dollars, from the practice of selling out of pickle, which we hope to see done away with another season. The Talking Codfish. — Recently two chaps, whom we shall call Bill and Joe, went out back of the Point in a dory to try their luck fishing. Bill possessed good powers of ventriloquism, which Joe was not aware of. They spent a couple of hours in fishing, and had good luck, when Joe hauled in a large-sized cod, and when he came up alongside, imagine his surprise when there issued from the cod's mouth, in words as 238 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. plain as human lips could speak, "Halloo, Joe, so you've got me, after all !" To say that Joe was frightened does not express it. He was fairly stunned — so much so that he couldn't get the fish on board the dory, and he went down again the length of the line. Bill, also, showed signs of agitation, but endeavored to make Joe think that he was mistaken, and commenced pull- ing the fish in. When he again reached the surface, Joe was amazed to hear from the fish's throat, as distinct as could be, " Bill, you hurt ! Pull out the hook and let me go." That was too much for Joe. He cut the line, hauled up the anchor and commenced rowing home, vowing that it was the d — I's own work, and he was afraid that it was a forerunner of ill-luck. Bill was scared, of course, and the affair formed the theme of conversation among their circle of acquaintances for several days. Soon after, the cat was let out of the bag, and Bill gave some good tests of his powers, which carried conviction with them. Joe treated all hands to birch beer, and the talking codfish was no longer a mystery. What the Old Blubber Man Said. — "It may smell a little fishy, but you soon get used to it," said an old man who was trying out blubber on one of our wharves to a young dandy-looking chap, who thought the effluvia was "perfwectly horwid." "And then," continued the old man, "it brings in the crispy green- backs, you know, and your father was one of the best blubber b'ilers I ever knew." The young man fidget- ted a little with his kid gloves and cane, and then quick- ly passed up off the wharf. He didn't care about hear- ing the old "blubber and ile" man give him any further reminiscences of his family. It's the case with a good many now-a-days. They like to spend the old man's money, but don't care to remember that the old gent ever went fishing or foUow^ed any of the honest occupa- tions connected therewith. A great pity it is that many of the young men of to-day are not obliged to commence life as their fathers did. The expe- rience would be the means of making good business men of them, as they would then know the value of money by being obliged to work hard in order to obtain it. The First Shipment of Herring from Gloucester to Germany. — As Mr. Addison G. Procter, of this city, senior member of the firm of Proc- ter, Trask & Co., was cashing a Swedish draft in Boston, Feb. 15, 1877, the banker remarked, "Why don't you ship herring to Germany as well as to Sweden, as the people of that country are large consumers of that fish ? " FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 239 One remark led to another, and the conversation conchided by the banker's giving him the address of a party in Hamburg, and becoming responsible for a shipment of fifty barrels, which were sent per steamer. They were put up with extra care and handsomely stenciled, "Procter, Trask & Co., Cape Ann Herring," on the barrel head. While the herring were lying in New York, a German merchant saw them and obtained permission to open one of the barrels. He was so well pleased with the fish that he immedi- ately telegraphed on for the price of 200 barrels of the same kind. The price was given and the order at once received. They were immediately packed and went on the steamer. Procter, Trask & Co. therefore have the honor of shipping the first lot of herring from Gloucester to Germany. The Worth of Oysters and Fish FOR Food. — The researches of Prof. W. O. Atwater of Wesleyan University of Middletown, Conn., in getting at the facts of the worth of fish and oys- ters as food are worthy of the attention bestowed upon it. Exceedingly inter- esting have been the determinations of the nutritive values of some of the invertebrates, as oysters, scallops, lob- sters and crayfish, which are to be found in these investigations. It is well known that in the mollusks water forms the largest proportion. So in Stony Creek oysters we find 90.47 of water ; in Blue Points, 80.76 ; in Nor- folks, 91.45 ; in scallops, 80.32 ; in clams, 86.20 ; in lobsters, 82.73, ^"<^ i^ crayfish, 81.22. The fat in oysters finds its maximum in 2 percent., though about 1.25 is a fair average. In the albuminoids they are fairly rich, the Blue Points having 8.20, but the scallop, the muscular part, of course, only being considered, has as much as 14.75 P^^ cent. In lobsters the fat is 1.97, the albuminoids 13.57, and the nutritive value is 62, about the same as flounder. These considerations about the nutritive values of oysters only regard the edible portions, but Prof. Atwater has studied the relations of shell to meat, and we find that in 100 pounds of Norfolk oysters, shell and all, there is really only one pound of nutritive material. The highest in the list is the Blue Point, which for everj'^ 100 pounds of weight of shell holds 2iV'i per cent, of meat. But when Long Island clams are examined, there is an increase in nutrients, for in the 100 pounds of shell and all there is 7.77, and in lobsters 6.80. In general. Prof. Atwater's tables seem to show that the Northern oysters are the richer and the Southern the poorer in nutritive elements. When relative nutritive values are studied, the worth of fish food will be thoroughly appreciated. 240 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Capture of a Trunk Turtle. — Sch. Herman Babson, Capt. Williams, captured a rare reptile for these parts in the shape of a trunk turtle, Oct. 3, 1877, ten miles off Cape Elizabeth. In getting it on board the vessel it was injured so badly that it survived but two days, having bled to death from one of its Hippers. It measured seven feet across the back and was six feet in length, and its estimated weight was six hundred pounds. It differs from other species of turtle in having the carapace overlaid by a leathery skin instead or horny plates, and this skin is easily punctured by a sharp instrument. The head is large, narrowed in front of the eyes, with small circular nostrils and large eyes, with lids opening nearly vertically ; jaws apparently very strong and sharp edged ; neck short and thick, and the anterior limbs are twice as large as the hind ones. It was a great curi- osity in this section, and hundreds availed themselves of the opportunity of seeing it. Its flesh is said to be of no value. It is found on both sides of the Atlantic, especially in the tropics, coming north as far as Massachusetts Bay. " Right arter Robert." — Years ago there were two brothers following fishing from this port, both of whom were skippers, owning crafts of their own. Robert was the elder, and William used to follow in his wake as near as he could, when on his fishing trips. One day they both started out to- gether, William following and Robert taking the lead, as usual. When Wil- liam went down to supper, the man at the helm asked him how he should steer. "Right arter Rober," was the reply. It so happened that William's vessel was a little faster than Robert's, in a light breeze, and the wind mod- erating suddenly and the helmsman not being first-class at the business, let her get too near, and ere he could avoid it the vessels collided. The shock brought skipper William on deck, who sang out, as he came up the compan- ion-way, "How are you steering?" "Right arter Robert, sir, just as you told me to," was the reply. Fortunately there was but little damage done, but "Right arter Robert" served as a by-word on board the crafts during the entire season. The Norwegian Flounder has been added to the list of edible fishes taken off our coast. Quite large quantities were secured on the dredging expeditions of the steamer Speedwell, about one hundred pounds being taken at one dredging in 1878. Through the courtesy of I'rof. Baird a liberal supply was sent to Taft's at Point Sliirley, and Parker's, Boston, where they were served up and pronounced excellent eating. These deep-sea flounders are some fifteen or eighteen inches long, resembling a small chicken halibut in form, and of a dull white color underneath and a light slate-colored back, with some peculiar markings about the head. Their presence in our waters FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 241 was unsuspected until brought to light by the investigations of the Fish Commission. How THE News of His Wife's Death Was Told Him.— One of our fishermen sailed on a mackereling trip, leaving his wife in her usual health, with no thought that the messenger of death was hovering so near. After a few days the wife died, and telegrams were sent to the husband along the coast, to such ports as it was likely the vessel might put in. But he never received them, and the vessel came home in about four weeks' time, arriv- ing at two o'clock in the morning. The skipper and crew came ashore, and on reaching the wharf the watchman asked the name of their vessel, and upon being informed took the skipper one side and told him the sad news and asked him to break it to the husband, as he had not the heart to. The skipper's heart failed him also, as he walked alongside the man up the wharf, into the familiar streets. Their houses lay in the same direction, the skipper's being the farthest off. Finally they reached the man's home, and as he stooped down to pick up a little stone to throw against the window of the chamber, to awaken his wife, as was his custom when arriving in the night, the skipper could no longer hesitate, but calling him by name, said : "Yoiir wife will never awaken on earth again, as she died three days after you left home, and this was what Mr. told me when he took me one side on the wharf; but I couldn't find heart to tell you before." The terrible news almost paralyzed the poor fellow, and he could not realize that the wife whom he had left and whom he had hoped so soon to meet again, was gone from his sight forever. The family were soon awakened, and he was made acquainted with the full details of the event which cast a shadow over his life which time will never fully efface. Off for Georges.— The regular February appearance of large schools of codfish on Georges Bank, which are used by the fish for their spawning grounds, insures a large catch for the early fleet, and the temptation of big trips and the consequent realization of good returns, cannot be resisted by men 'who have been lying idle and whose funds have run low, or to express it as they do, more emphatically, "We haven't a shot in the locker; the fish are there and we're just going for 'em !" And who can blame tliem ? It is their business. They know its excitements and its dangers. Old ocean has been their cradle for many a year. They have been rocked to sleep by it in its calmer moods, as well as when in anger it has tossed their little crafts up and down on the billows, and the stormy blast has shrieked through the rigging, 'mid the gale. Georges may be their grave ; but this thought does not deter them from going. And no wonder they are anxious to start when they remember the big trips they have shared in ; quickly earned, too. 242 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. An India Rubber Stomach. — The Chiasmodes Niger, brought in by sch. Bessie W. Somes, July 30, 1880, proved a rare specimen indeed, since it is a fish that can swallow fishes twice as large and four times as heavy as itself. This it can do because its mouth is very deeply cleft, its teeth bent, and its stomach elastic like India rubber. This is the third specimen known to science, the first having been found off the island of Madeira, and the sec- ond in the Dominican Sea. The specimen brought in by the Soifics was ten inches long, and had in its stomach a codfish eighteen inches in length. Eccentricities of the Swordfish. — The swordfish is found here and there from Spring to Fall in the ocean on our coast, lying " asleep," the fishermen call it, on the very surface of the water. Nobody on the Ameri- ican coast, so far as reported, ever saw a little swordfish. The smallest recorded by a correspondent of the "Forest and Stream" weighed forty-six pounds. Their only known breeding ground is in the Mediterranean Sea. There the same fish is found weighing half a pound ; from that they go up to very heavy measurement. It is naturally inferred from this that all our swordfish are Mediterranean products. What mysterious ocean current guides them over here ? Or is it instinct that teaches them that here they will find the mackerel and the menhaden that they feed on ? One can al- most imagine that the game of flight and pursuit kept up by these two spe- cies starts at Gibralter and is run to Block Island every year. The sword- fish darts upon a school of its prey and by skilful use of its sword wounds those that it afterwards captures and eats. Until within a few years nobody ever thought of catching it except by harpoons. Recently, however, it has taken the bait of the trawls of our cod fishermen, and many swordfish have been caught in that novel way. What they come up and "sleep" for is one of the puzzles of their nature. They come and go as the mackerel and menhaden do, and from that it is naturally concluded that they spend their time chasing these small fish. What with sharks, swordfish, porpoises, blue- fish, sea-gulls, eagles and seines, and all the rest after them, the fish of the herring tribe have led such lives of fright and terror that it is no longer a wonder that the movements of any school of them seem guided by an inher- ent idiocy. It is even less strange that they are all the while victims than that, being caught by millions yearly, they should steadily increase. Why the Red Sea Is Red. — Geographers were not able to determine why the Red Sea was so named until Klirenberg, sailing over a part of it, observed that the water of the whole Gulf of Tor was colored a blood red. Drawing up some of the water, and examining it with a microscope, he found that the color was due to a minute, thread like oscillatoria or alga. The same alga was observed by Dupont twenty years afterwards, giving rise FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 243 to the same appearance even on extent of 556 nautical miles. A similar plant was noticed by Darwin, in his voyage around the world, coverin<>- the water near Abrolhos Island, off the coast of Brazil. Oersted, in 1S45, no- ticed that the water near Maderia had a peculiar obscurity, which was occa- sioned by numerous minute tufts of oscillatoria waving in the mass. These plants are found all the way to the West Indies, sometimes thick enough to give a color to the water, but never wholly wanting. In other cases the sea is colored red by animals, of different kinds, by minute crustaceans or infu- soria, or eggs. The name red or vermilion sea has been given to two dif- ferent microscopic infusorias. One of the coloring animals is irritating to the skin, and produces blisters and sores on the bodies of those who come in contact with it. UBSTiTUTE FOR CoD LivER OiL. — It is claimed by a writer in "Nature" that the oil of the "oolachen" or "ulikou," the candlefish of Alaska, possesses all the medicinal qualities of cod liver oil. This fish has long ^^ been an ichthyological curiosity, and has been noticed ^^r by almost every traveler who has visited the coasts of L- British Columbia and Southern Alaska. It is a small silvery fish, averaging about fourteen inches long, in 'llMF general appearance much resembling a smelt. It is the fattest of all known fish, affording a very superior oil when tried out. Dried, the fish serve as torches. When a light is needed the tail is touched to the fire, and they will burn with a bright light for some time. No de- scription can give an adequate idea of their numbers when ascending the rivers from the sea. The water is literally alive with them and appears to be boiling. These fisheries appear not to have been hitherto utilized except by the natives, who esteem the ulikon as a great delicacy. The oil at pres- ent is said to be gaining a high reputation in this country and has recently been introduced into England, where it will probably take a prominent place as an important medicine. Habits of Eels. — The habits of the eel are very different from those of any other fish, and are as yet but little understood. " This, so far as we know," writes Prof. Baird, "is the only fish the young of which ascend from the sea to attain maturity, instead of descending from the fresh to the salt water. Its natural history has been a matter of considerable inquiry within a few years, although even now we are far from having that information concerning it that would be desirable, in view of its enormous abundance and its great value as a food fish. The eggs of the eel are for the most part laid in the sea, and in early Spring, the period varying with the latitude, the young fish may be seen ascending the river in vast numbers, and when 244 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. arrested by an apparently impassable barrier, natural or artificial, they will leave the water and make their way above the obstruction, in endeavoring to reach the point at which they aim. Here they bury themselves in the mud and feed on any kind of animal substance, the spawn of fish, the roes of shad, small fish, etc. At the end of tiieir sojourn in the ponds or streams 'they return to the sea, and are then captured in immense numbers in many rivers in what are called fish-baskets. A V-shaped fence is made, with the opening down stream into the basket, into which the eels fall, and from which they cannot easily escape. This same device, it may be incidentally stated, captures also great numbers of other fish, such as shad, salmon, and other anadromous fish, to their grievous destruction. As might be expected, however, the Falls of Niagara constitute an impassable barrier to their as- cent. The fish is very abundant in Lake Ontario, and until artificially intro- duced was unknown in Lake Erie. At the present time, in the Spring and Summer, the visitor who enters under the sheet of water at the foot of the falls will be astonished at the enormous number of young eels crawling over the slippery rocks and squirming in the seething whirlpools. An estimate of hundreds of wagon-loads, as seen in the course of the perilous journey referred to, would hardly be considered excessive by those who have visited the spot at a suitable season of the year." The Men Who Man the Fishing Fleets. — From carefully prepared statistics we learn that the number of men engaged on board the Gloucester fishing fleets the past year (1881) was 4,142, divided as follows : Georges fleet, 1,460; Western Bank, 284 ; Grand Bank, 360 ; fresh halibut, 330 ; mackerel- ing, 1,120; shore fishing, 430; dory fishing, 125; trap fishing, 24. This does not include the crews of vessels from other ports who fit from here. The Alaska Codfish. — Dr. Tarleton H. Bean, who was on the I'. S. Fish Commission Corps in this city in 1878, and who was sent to Alaska by Prof. Baird in the Summer of 1880, to investigate the codfishery of that country, reports that the Alaska cod is the same as that of New England and Europe, the Gadus morrhiia, with the same occasional variations. He says that Golden cod, red cod and other algas forms are as well known at the Shumagin Islands as they are around Cape Cod and Cape Ann ; the beautiful lemon-yellow fish, which occasionally are found in Ipswich Bay schools, are duplicated in Alaskan waters. The habits and food of the cod are similar to those on our coast. The shore fish about Kodiak make their appearance in schools similar to ours — first the "herring school," next the "lant school," then the "capelin school," followed by the "squid school," and the "winter school." Besides these there is an abundance of bank fish, which are always larger than those previously named. The cod come on FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 245 the rocks in twenty-five to thirty fathoms about Kodiak to spawn in Novem- ber and December, just as they do in the East, and these spawning fish will at times be perfectly still on the bottom and refuse to take the hook. Youn^ cod swarm near the shores, just as they were observed to do in Gloucester Harbor after the experiments of the U. S. Fish Commission with artificial propagation. The Pacific waters have also a genuine pollock, weaker than its Eastern relative, and halibut also abound, but the cusk and haddock have not yet been found in Alaskan waters. What One Fishing District Does for THE Farmer and Planter. — To one who has given the subject no thought, the extent to which the fishing industry is a patron of agri- culture is a matter of surprise. The jealousy with which the people of the West and South have regarded the protection extended by the government in times past to the fisheries, and which it now inadequately provides in certain concessions in regard to the duty on salt, has been ill-judged and unreasonable, since equal protection has been afforded to other producing interests, and the fishing business is an important customer for the products of the plantation and field. A care- ful investigation shows that the fishing fleet of Gloucester consumes annu- ally the following products of the farmer and planter : Cotton, in fishing lines, seines and nets, 530,000 lbs.; in sails (yearly wear), 225,000 lbs,; rice, 24,300 lbs.; butter, 198,450 lbs.; lard, 182,250 lbs.; dried apples, 61,560 lbs.; mustard, 1,215 ^'^^v sage, no lbs.; squashes, 26,550 lbs.; fresh meat, 126,765 lbs.; flour, 7,985 bbls.; beef, 4,455 bbls.; pork shoulders, 1,721 bbls.; pork, 1,215 bbls.; beans, 1,822 bush.; peas, 810 bush.; potatoes, 33,615 bush.; onions, 2,430 bush.; beets, 1,215 bush.; turnips, 1,620 bush.; meal, 1,280 bush.; cabbages, 4,560 doz.; vinegar, 1,620 gals.; pepper sauce, 1,315 bottles; milk, 38,400 cans. To the above add the amount consumed by those employed in the fishing business ashore, together with the necessary provisions for their families and the families of those at sea, and it makes the fishing business one of great pecuniary interest to the planter, farmer and stock-raiser. The Highest Price ever received for mackerel was in 1879, when sch. Crest of the Wave, Capt. David Melanson, took 80 bbls. off Thacher's Isl- and, of which 25 bbls. were the largest and fattest ever brought to this port, eighty mackerel filling a barrel, and selling for $40. Sch. Mary Ode//, Capt. McClain, took 20 bbls. of the same quality, which were sold in Bos- ton, also for $40 per bbl. * 246 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Veteran Fishermen. — Mr. George Merchant, 74 years of age, was en- gaged in the mackerel fishery from May 4 to Sept. i, 188 1, and helped to take care of a catch of 1,200 barrels of mackerel ; he has been engaged in fishing some part of the season ever since he was ten years of age. Mr. George Gerring of East Gloucester, 72 years of age, was engaged in the Georges fishery in the Spring of 1881 on board sch. Light Whig, and cauo-ht an average share ; he commenced fishing when thirteen years of age. Mr. Charles A. Furgerson of Robinstovvn, Me., 50 years of age, has fol- lowed fishing from this port for thirty-four years, and for twenty-one years was on Georges every season regularly. His first trip was in sch. Cherokee. Mr. Furgerson was one of the original subscribers to "Procters' Able Sheet." When he was in the Pioneer he hauled one pair of halibut weigh- ing 300 pounds, which sold for $42.62. He is now on board the Charles H. Hildrcth. He states that he never saw good luck on board a vessel when a land bird flies on board. The New England Codfish Catch for 188 i.— The New England catch of cod and other ground fish is reported at 775,627 qtls., against 647,426 qtls. the previous year. The Massachusetts catch alone was 548,640 qtls., Gloucester taking the lead with 431,800 qtls. (nearly 55^ per cent, of the New England catch, and nearly 77 per cent, of the Massachusetts catch), and Provincetown coming next with 86,317 qtls. The Portland catch was 78,000 qtls., Eastport, 28,000, Boothbay, 19,071, Vinalhaven, 14,175, Bev- erly, 10,400, and no other New England port exceeded 10,000 qtls. Catching Cod around Newfoundland. — There are two ways in which the people around the Newfoundland coast and on that of Labrador engage in catching cod. Fish are caught in boats about the size of small schoon- ers, decked in and provided with comfortable "cuddies," which is where the fishermen cook, eat and sleep, or rest after the immediate toil is ended ; and they are caught in little open boats or skiffs, having two masts and sometimes a saucy little jib-boom, and these little boats they sail when there is wind, and row when it is calm. The large boats sometimes go a hundred miles from home around the coast to fish, and the fishermen live in them through the Summer, but the small boats go only a few miles from home, seldom stay out all night, but getting their loads, return to land. The for- mer belong to the towns and harbors, or large villages ; the latter to the coves, we might say the crevices, around the coast. About the first of June the fishery commences, and in the first gray of the morning flocks of little boats with barked sails may be seen putting out from the rocks. At this time of the year the cod is usually hungry, for it has just come in from the banks of Newfoundland, meeting perhaps but few fish to prey on on its way. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 247 When it reaches the coast it finds the herring there before it, and has a feast for its late fast. It is with the herring that the fisherman now catches the cod, for the caplin has not come, and it is too early for seines or nets, and fish being hungry, the hook and line and "bull-tow" train are in de- mand. The boat is a quarter of a mile out from the rocks, and on the Atlantic waters. There are two men in the boat, and having reached the spot where they intend to "try," they take down their sails and both stand up, one in the fore part of the boat, the other aft. Each has a pair of lines, and to each line a hook is set in a piece of lead, made in the shape of a fish, to make it sink. Each line is fastened to the boat. A sheath-knife is in the fisherman's belt, and with this he cuts his herring into bait sizes, puts a piece on the hook, which he throws to his right a distance of about twenty feet. He does the same with the line on his left, and his companion in the other end of the boat does the same thing. Thus each man has two lines out; he stands erect and "saws" his lines till he gets a bite — the sawing being a sudden long jerk, now to the right line, and now to the left, in reg- ular time. He starts. There is a suddeij tug, and a thrill of life comes up the line to his hand. He lets go the other and hauls away, and the greater the weight the more gleefully does he haul, till the cod "breaks water," when, seizing a gaff — a contrivance with a wooden handle two feet lonof, to which is affixed a large iron hook — he sticks it into the body of the fish and jerks it in over the gunwale. While the hook seized by the fish serves to draw the fish to the surface, it would not be sufiicient to lift it from the sur- face to the boat. The process of unhooking the fish to the novice is not an easy one, but to the expert it is not a matter of two seconds. Some- times a "spurt" comes on, which means that a school of hungry fish is pass- ing under the boat, and then the rapidity with which two practiced fishermen can haul in, unhook, bait, throw out and haul in again is certainly marvelous. An Important Discovery. — Mr. Robert E. Earle, who for some months was connected with the artificial propagation of deep sea fish experiments in this city, is credited with the discovery of the important fact that Spanish mackerel are vastly more productive than cod or shad, and that they can be artificially hatched in much less time. Mr. Earle learned from the Chesa- peake fishermen that large numbers of these fish annually frequented the 2 48 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. waters of that bay, and on reporting that fact to Prof. Baird, was detailed to make experiments for their reproduction. On getting to work, he was surprised to find that the fish were hatched within eighteen hours from the lime the milk and spawn were brought together, whereas it requires five days to hatch shad and eight to twelve days to hatch codfish. The number of eggs operated upon at a single time is between 200,000 and 300,000, while only 20,000 to 30,000 shad eggs are treated at once. The season for operations with the spawn of this fish is toward the last of June and first of July, after the shad hatching is over and before that of codfish commences. The First Wholesale Fish Store in Boston was established on Long Wharf by Mr. Ebenezer Nickerson in 1807. The first wholesale fresh fish store in Boston was opened on Long Wharf in 1835 by Messrs. Holbrook, Smith & Co. The mackerel purse seine dates from 1855. The canning of fish dates from 1845, in Maine. Vessels first began to carry ice to sea in 1845, and dealers began to use it in shipping fish the same year; 20,000,000 lbs. are now annually consumed, by vessels and fish dealers. Nets were home-made until 1842, when the first net factory was established in Boston; they were hand-made until 1865, when machinery w-as introduced in their manufacture. The earliest importations of mackerel were seven barrels in 1 82 1. — From Records of Boston Fish Bureau. The Best Halibut Fare received at this port for several years was land- ed March 22, 1882, by sch. Grace Z. Fears, Capt. Nathaniel Greenleaf. Her fare was taken by the New England and Atlantic Halibut Companies, and she weighed off 98,825 lbs. halibut and 3,000 lbs. codfish, 101,825 lbs. in all, stocking $6086.50. Her crew shared $206.30. The cook's share was $253.05. She was gone five weeks and one day, during which time she was frozen up for eight days at Canso. This is the largest stock ever made on a halibut trip, although larger fares have been received several years ago. The Codfish — Its Value as Food — IIoju the Grand Bank Was Formed. — What a marvelous influence upon civilization and human progress the luim- ble but nutritious codfish has had. He has been a mine of wealth to a vast population. It seems as though good Mother Nature, foreseeing the needs of humanity, had made special preparations for a good supply of this very necessary article of food for body and brain. She floated her icebergs, which were filled with the sandy bottom of northern seas, down to the Gulf Stream, where they melted and, depositing their debris, formed the Grand Bank of Newfoundland. It was the work, the slow and toilsome work, of ages. Every Spring thousands of these bergs, one-third above water and two-thirds below, the upper part clear, sparkling and translucent, reflecting FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 249 the sunshine and giving it back to the enraptured eye with that prodigality and brilliancy of coloring which only nature can afford, the lower part mixed with the coast bottom of Greenland or Labrador to the extent of thousands of cart-loads, came floating down majestically through Davis' Strait, and meeting the warm air and warm water of the Gulf Stream, melted and de- posited their contribution, until at last those immense shoals were formed where the cod and haddock swarm. And it is said that these sand banks have huge depressions, like vast valleys, which serve as aquaria, and that when a fishing vessel is lucky enough to anchor over one of them, it can fill its hold and deck with as many as it can carry. For generations the inhab- itants of Newfoundland, and the venturesome folk who live all along the New England coast, get their daily bread, or lay up a competency from this never-failing source of wealth. What a vast number of people on the globe get their living out of and subsist principally on the invaluable cod, and what vast quantities have been landed by the fishing fleet of Gloucester, since her fishermen first engaged in the business. '&"&^ The Iceland Cod Fishery. — It is not generally known that next to Newfoundland, Iceland is the rendezvous for the vessels engaged in cod fishing. Large numbers of French smacks choose the latter ground. Dur- ing the season of 188 1, owing to the large quantity of dried fish remaining unsold from the take of the previous season, there was a marked reduction in the number of fishing craft, but 193 having started for Iceland. Tfie Norwegians engaged in the trade are improving their fishing apparatus every year, and they are extending their markets also. They have estab- lished herring fisheries all along the Icelandic coast, and not long since a large company was formed for the prosecution of this industry on a large scale ; but the results this season, we are told, have been discouraging for almost everybody engaged in it. Time and money have been lost for want of accurate information as to the weather, and, with a view to remedying defeat, telegraphic communication between the coast of Scotland and Reik- iawick, the capital of Iceland, is now spoken of. A Mermaid Captured. — A fisherman, a resident of As- .^ pinwall, is reported to have recently captured a mermaid. There is silky blonde hair on the head ; the features of the face are perfectly even to the teeth, the arms are the same as human beings', with claws resembling an eagle's talons in place of finger nails. From the waist up the resemblance to a human being is unmistakable, and from the waist down the body is exactly the same as an ordinary mullet, with scales, fins and tails perfect. 250 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Net Codfishing has been practically a failure the past season. In the Winter of 1880-81 the netting fleet in Ipswich Bay took large fares, while the trawlers met with much poorer success. On a recent trip in the same waters the sch. Magellan Cloud, with twenty-four nets set, took only about 1,000 pounds codfish, while in four days fishing there a trawler took 20,000 pounds. Helping Themselves. — One of the peculiarities of the white fish trade of the lakes is the traffic between the fishermen and the lake craft engaged in the carrying and passenger trade. These boats as they pass up and down the lakes frequently stop and take up the fishermen's nets and help themselves to what they want. The fish taken are weighed and the money to pay for them is attached to the nets, which are again let down to the bot- tom of the lake. So it often happens that the fishermen in lifting their nets take in considerable money as well as fish. The lake captains are very honorable in this matter, and it has come to be an understood arrangement, satisfactory all around. The French Sardine Fishery. — Not less than 30,000 persons are en- gaged in the sardine fishery in France, and fully as many find occupation in "preserving" this fish. A writer in the Joiinmi of the Society of Arts says that in taking the sardine the bait, which is called roe, plays an im- portant part. This lure is a kind of caviare made from the eggs of the cod preserved in brine, 35,000 barrels of which are imported from Norway every year. When the position of a shoal is ascertained the nets are let down and the master of the boat throws the bait, mixed with sand to cause it to sink, into the water. Emerald green flashes on the surface of the water denote the rise of some of the fish. Then the bait is liberally cast out, and soon the whole shoal rises into the nets. At one time a boat could take 20,000 sardines, but now it is a rare thing to bring in more than from 5,000 to 6,000 at a trip. When the boats land, the sardines are taken to the fac- tories in hampers containing about 500 apiece. There women cut off the heads of the fish, open and clean the bodies, and place each fish one by one on stone or marble slabs previously strewed with salt. While this pre- liminary drying is going on, the fires are lighted and the purest olive oil is put into immense caldrons. When the oil is boiling, the sardines are laid in layers in iron wire baskets provided with handles. These baskets are plunged into the oil and then placed on shelves covered with zinc to drain. When they are moderately dry they are taken to the large drying house, exposed to the sea breeze, and there they remain until fit to be stored and put into boxes. The largest are considered the finest, and the small ones are frequently passed off as anchovies. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 'SI Steam Whalers. — Steam vessels for whaling have proved highly profita- ble. The first one ever sent out from the Pacific coast was the Marv ^ Helen, which cleared in 1881 enough to pay her entire cost and $40,000 be- sides. The second venture, that of the Belvidere, came back from a voyage of only six months with $100,000 worth of oil above the investment. The great success of these steamers is likely to revive the business of whaling. P. E. I. Fisheries. — The Prince Edward Island mackerel catch for 1881 was 36,083 bbls., about one-half the catch of 1880. 228,593 pound cans of lobsters were put up, double the quantity of the previous year. The codfish catch was 16,934 qtls,, against 28,045 "^ 1880; hake, 10,023 Qtls.; halibut, 4,575 lbs.; haddock, 72,600 lbs.; herring, 28,545 bbls.; alewives, 1,917 bbls.; oysters, 20,815 bbls. Dangers of the Sea. — The dif- ference between handling a ship so that she escapes a danger, and in a way to plunge her headlong upon it, was doubly illustrated on a passage by the Algeria, which runs between New York and Liv- erpool, England. On her sixth day out, in February, 1881, the Algeria found herself in a heavy fog on the Banks of Newfoundland. The ship was feeling her way cautiously along, all eyes and ears, so to say, when from over the port bow there sounded a fog bell. It seemed some distance oflf ; but Capt. Gill, swift as light, ordered a reversal of the engines. The screw flew round, the great ship paused, slowly backed, and none too soon. In a trice there loomed up through the fog a huge three-masted schooner rushing forward under full sail. Had the course of the Algeria been kept, had she failed to retreat at the moment she did, a collision would have been inevi- table. The schooner flew on her way straight across the foaming wake of the steamship, and a terrible calamity that might have cost hundreds of lives was happily averted. Very nearly the same thing happened again on the same evening, the dangerous craft that approached the Algeria in this in- stance being another large steamer. This time the stranger was not seen through the dense mist, but the voices of persons on the decks were heard with startling distinctness, and the case was apparently as narrow as in the case of the schooner. Eternal vigilance is as clearly the price of safety at sea as it is of liberty everywhere. Undoubtedly many of the fishing vessels which disappear so mysteriously, with no heavy gale to account for their loss, are run down by steamers or other large vessels, while at anchor on the Banks, 252 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Fishing in Lapland, — The water is very clear at Hamerfest, in Lapland, and one may see everything that goes on among the fish. A few feet down you can see the young cod snapping at your hook \ a little lower down the coalfish, and the huge plaice and the halibut on the white sand at the bot- tom ; in other places the starfish, as large as a plate, and purple and green shellfish of all sizes. The plaice is taken in the following manner : In calm weather the fisherman takes a strong, fine cord, to which he has fast- ened a heavy spear-head, like a whale harpoon. This he holds ready over the bow of the boat, while another person paddles it forward slowly. When the fish is seen at the bottom, the boat is stopped and the harpoon is suddenly dropped upon him, and thus the fish is caught. In two hours the fishermen will get a boat load. The halibut are caught with hooks. They sometimes weigh 500 pounds, and if drawn up carelessly will overturn the boat. In many of the mountainous districts the rivers swarm with trout, the habit of which is to conceal themselves beneath the bowlder rocks in the bed of the stream, venturing out to feed only at night. Men, each with a heavy hammer, will enter these waters and strike one or two blows on the stones, when the fish run from their lurking place, partly stunned, and are easily caught. The Sea Cucumber, one of the curious jelly bodies that inhabit the ocean, can practically efface himself when in danger, by squeezing the water out of his body and forcing himself into a narrow crack — so narrow as not to be visible to the naked eye. He can throw out nearly the whole of his inside and yet live and grow it again. Swedish Popular Beliefs. — The teeth of large fish should be burnt, in order to be lucky in fishing. One ought to tell no one when one goes out to fish, and not mention whether one has caught many or few. Nor should any stranger see how many fish one has taken. When one rows out from land to fish, one must not run the boat against the sun. Pins found in a church and made into fish hooks catch the best. If a woman passes over the rod, no fish will bite. Stolen fishing tackle is lucky, but the person robbed loses his luck. — Thorpe's Northern Mythology. Salted Herring. — The art of salting and packing herring was discov- ered in the fourteenth century by Beukels, of Biervliet, in Flanders, who, after introducing it into his own country, went to Finland and established it there, whence it spread to all the Baltic provinces. In 1856, Alexander FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 253 II, Emperor of Russia, in his visit to Finland, after leaving Helsingfors, went to the little town of Borgo, and laid with great ceremony the first stone of a monument to the memory of the fisherman Beukels, who died in 1397, in his native village, where his tomb was once visited by the Emperor Charles V; and Peter the Great, in recognition of the importance of his discovery, gave a pension to one of his descendants. A Valuable Nautical Contrivance. — An extremely simple but inval- uable aid to navigation has recently been proposed by an experienced Brit- ish master mariner, by which he is confident the largest steamship in an ocean gale can be hove to with safety. His contrivance, as described in the London "Shipping Gazette," is on the drogue system, and the advantages he has experienced from it in emergency are " too great to express." His sea anchor or drogue is made of stout canvas in the shape of a bag, with a strong wire hoop at the top, to which the lanyard is fastened — the latter being shackled to a spar thirty feet long. The spar, fitted with three iron bands, is kept square by two wire guys, and fastened to a riding hawser made of wire or manila. The drogue, when in use, is about four fathoms beneath the surface of the agitated sea, thus escaping its force, and when full of water proves a great resistance, keeping the ship's head to the sea when driving to leeward in a heavy gale. This simple, cheap and quickly improvised contrivance would undoubtedly be useful to vessels thrown on their beam ends, or experiencing that ofttimes fatal accident — shifting of the cargo in the presence of a severe storm. It would also, in many cases, by enabling a disabled steamer to avoid drifting out of her course, or helping her to keep out of the central path of an advancing cyclone, prpve a timely safeguard to life and property at sea. A Novel Experiment has been tried at the port of Peterhead in Scot- land, where the waves of the North Sea have an unchecked sweep from the wild coast of Norway, and break so furiously at the harbor mouth that warn- ing signals are given against attempting to enter the harbor. A wooden shed was erected and iron and lead piping carried down the beach a dis- tance of nearly one hundred yards. Then a strong gutta-percha pipe with three openings seventy-five yards apart was laid across the entrance to the harbor. A force pump in the shed supplies this tubing with oil to allay the waves. Recently the waves were running twenty feet high at the mouth of Peterhead harbor, and the pump was put at work. The oil was forced through the pipes and out of the valves. It spread over the bottom, rose to the top of the water, and in a short time the seething foam was gone. Not a white cap remained within reach of the calming fluid. Although the swell continued, the surface of the sea was quite smooth, so that " a small boat 2 54 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. could have entered the dock without the slightest danger." The ship mas- ters who witnessed the experiment were satisfied with the result. Why would it not be well for our fishermen on the Banks, or elsewhere, in some of the terrible gales, to try this experiment ? It has the same effect when poured upon the troubled waters as if pumped or otherwise placed thereon. A Remarkable Spectacle. — The steamer Victoria, at New York from Glasgow, reported witnessing a remarkable spectacle on the eastern edge of Grand Bank, December i8, 1876. During the height of a gale of unusual severity there appeared on the trucks, yards and stays, large balls of fire or phosphorus, strung on the stays or yards at intervals of a foot or two, giving the ship the appearance of being decorated with Chinese lanterns, only more brilliant ; they settled on the vessel like a shower of meteors, and disappeared almost as suddenly as they appeared, an occasional one drop- ping from the yards, bursting with a loud report ; one of them fell and burst almost in the face of the chief officer, making a noise like a small piece of artillery, but causing no more inconvenience than dazzling him for the moment. [CHINESE HOUSE-BOAT.] FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 255 A Fishing Party. A bright Summer day, with a good breeze stirring, can be used most en- joyably on a fishing party, similar to that depicted above. They are bound out on the grounds, and are having a good run oflf. Let us in imagination follow them. In about an hour they will reach one of the many spots where fish do congregate off Cape Ann's rugged shore, when down will go the anchor and sails ; the lines will be in readiness, and all will "chip in" a sil- ver coin, the whole of which will be given to the lucky individual who shall pull in the first fish. Now all is excitement. The hooks are baited and the lines with their heavy leaden sinkers lowered until the bottom is felt, then pulled up a couple of feet, all ready for some hungry cod to snap at the bait and get hooked on by the dexterous jerk which will follow the first nibble. There's one around your line ! Careful, now ! Ah, you've got him ! And up he comes, a six-pounder, and the fish for the chowder is secured, and you also have earned the prize money. 256 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. The fun now commences, and there is rare sport bringing in the thrifty fish. It is most exciting, and a generous rivalry prevails as to who will catch the most fish. Bye-and-bye they slack up biting, and the " inner man " calls loudly for something to appease that terrible appetite which the exercise and cool sea breezes have provoked. A savory odor pervades the atmosphere, which indicates that the chowder is underway, and soon it is served up smoking hot, and receives that attention which it so well deserves. The day passes merrily by, with song and story and good cheer, when, late in the afternoon the return is made, and all agree that the day has proved a "red one" in the calendar. This party, as will be observ^ed, is composed of the male gender entirely, and is an impromptu affair; but oftentimes large yachts are used, with finely fitted up cabins, having accommodations suitable for the fair sex, and in company with the ladies the enjoyments of a fishing party are greatly enhanced. This is one of the many pleasures of the sea coast in the pleas- ant Summer months, and once participated in there is a desire to repeat it. NOT A BENE." BY JUXU'EU. A ship, once crossinji over the sea — I tell the story as 'twas told to me— Made a hundred miles or so from sliore. When a craft was one day seen that bore Her tlag reversed, while 'gainst the mast The torn sails fluttered as the wind rushed past. " Out with tlie boat ! " the captain cried, And the seamen darted over the side ; Their oars fell in with a regular dip. As they rapidly nearcd the silent sliip. When they readied the deek a sight met tlieir eyes Which made them start with fearful surprise. All around on the deck the crew were Iving, And groaning aloud as tho' tliey were dying; The captain alone on a hen-coop sat. With his face in hands and a wei-d on his hat ; He gazed on them all with a Ijloodshot eye, And the crew looked up with a heart-rend- ing sigh. " Say, why do you raise the flag of distress, And sit around deck in idleness? Are you out of food? Have you used up your water? Have you got the plague? Or what is the matter?" " We came from Beverly, and the flag you have seen Is because for three days ire have been out of beans!" FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 257 The Mackerel Pocket, or "Spiller." , Among the improvements in fishing apparatus there are none, perhaps, that appear to be more important than one patented by H. E. Willard, of Portland, Me. — an article long needed in the mackerel seine fishery, and which has received from the fishermen the name of " Mackerel Pocket," or "Spiller." It was first used by the patentee in 1878, and Capt. George Merchant, Jr., of this city, subsequently invented and put into practical operation an improved "spiller." The apparatus is a large net bag, 36 feet long, 15 feet wide and 30 feet deep. It is made of stout, coarse twine, and is attached to the side of the vessel, where it is kept in position, when in use, by wooden poles or " out- riggers," which extend out a distance of fifteen feet from the schooner's rail. When distended in this manner a spiller will hold over 200 barrels of mackerel, which can thus be kept alive, as in the well of a smack, until the crew have time to cure their catch. As is well known, it frequently happens that several hundred barrels of mackerel are taken at a single haul. Heretofore, when such a large quantity of fish were caught, but a compar- atively small portion of them could be cured by the crew of the vessel to which the seine belonged. The result was that when a large catch was made, a considerable percentage of the fish were generally "given away" to some other vessel, since if only a part of them were removed from the seine to the vessel's deck, the remainder being left in the net until the first lot were cured, the chances were nine to one that the fine twine of which the purse-seines are made would be bitten in many places by the swarming dog- fish. In addition to the injury of the net, the inclosed body of fisli were thus allowed to escape, robbing the fisherman of a large portion of the fruit of his labors. The spiller being made of coarse twine, though not entirely exempt from the ravages of the dogfish and sharks, is rarely injured by them. And now when a large school of mackerel are caught in a seine, the fish are turned into the bag, from which they are bailed out on the schooner's deck only as fast as they can be dressed, and in this way it frequently happens that a full fare may now be secured from a single set of the seine. 25 S FISHERMEN'S O WN BOOK, On the Loss of the ''Royal George." Written when the news arrived, 1782. BY -WILLLOI COWPER. Toll for the brave — The brave that are no more 1 All sunk beneath the wave, Fast by their native shore. Eight hundred of the brave, Whose courage well was tried, Had wvmV' the vessel heel, And laid her on her side. A land-breeze shook the shrouds, And she was overset; Down went the Koyal George, With all her crew complete. Toll for the brave I IJrave Kempenfelt is gone ; His last sea-tight is fought, His work of glory done. It was not in the battle ; No tempest gave the shock ; She sprang no fatal leak ; She ran upon no rock. His sword was in its sheath; His fingers held the pen. When Kempenfelt went down AYith twice four hundred men. Weigh the vessel up, Once dreaded by our foes I And mingle with the cup The tear that England owes. Her timbers yet are sound. And she may float again, Full charged with I^ngland's thunder, And plough the distant main. But Kempenfelt is gone. His victories are o'c-r; And he and his eight hundred Shall plough the wave no more. FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 259 A Banker Discharging Her Fare. Here we give a familiar scene to the Winter fisherman and the many who congregate at this busy spot — a Banker getting ready to discharge her fare of halibut at the Atlantic Halibut Company's wharf. She has had a hard time of it on the passage home, as it was cold and stormy, and got badly iced up. But she is all safe now, with her halibut in prime order, a quick market and good prices. This compensates for the hardships endured, and the fishermen are feeling jubilant at the prospect of a pile of crisp bank notes when they take their check up to the bank to be cashed. The square-rigger is a salt vessel at the head of Parkhurst's wharf, which gives a commercial aspect pleasing to look upon. A Good Answer. — At the hearing before the Fishery Committee at the State House, not long since, a veteran fisherman from this city was asked by one of the lawyers what he knew about fishing. "What don't I know, would be a better question to ask, 'Squire," was the reply. "Why, I've fol- lowed it forty years and caught everything that swims, from a whale to a shrimp." There was a hum of subdued merriment, and he was not further interrojrated. 26o FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Loss of Life and Vessel Property from January 1 to 1, 1882. April Since our report was made up at the beginning of the year and put in type for this volume, there have been lost from this port 102 lives, and 9 vessels valued with their outfits and one cargo of herring at $52,000, as follows : Sch. WATER SPIRIT, 60.28 tons, owned by George Garland, engaged in the Winter shore fishery, went ashore on Rye Beach during a thick snow storm, on the night of Jan. 31, and proved a total loss. Crew saved. Val- ue, $3.000 ; insured for $2,200, with $400 additional on outfits. Sch. BUNKER HILL, 100.77 tons, owned by Michael Walen &: Son and Capt. John McDonald, on the passage home from Fortune Bay, N. F., Jan. 25, with frozen herring, went ashore during a heavy snow storm, on Bemo Ledge, Eastern Point, and became a total wreck. Value, with outfits, $7,500 ; insurance, $5,017, and $1,000 on outfits. The cargo was valued at $4,000, and uninsured. Sch. EDITH M. PEW, 62.75 tons, owned by John Pew & Son, engaged in the Georges haddocking fishery, left port Jan. 18. Was reported in a Nova Scotian port, and last seen on Georges by sch. Noonday, Capt. Edward Trevoy, Feb. 3, two days before the gale in which it is supposed she was lost. Crew list — William Corliss, master; Martin Moran, Samuel Byers, Murdock White, Andrew Conley, Michael Norton, Charles Lawson, Keaton Roderick, John Taylor, John LeeVanance, Martin Lewis, Bartholomew Ryan, ^^'illiam Davis, Hugh Phalen. Value, $5,500 ; insurance, $3,000, in the Gloucester Fire Insurance office. Sch. PAUL REVERE, 64.90 tons, owned by Capt. Andrew Leighton, another of the Georges haddocking fleet, sailed Jan. 24, and was last seen by Capt. John Ryan of sch. David A. Story on Georges, Feb. 4, the day before the heavy gale, in which it is supposed she was lost. By many it is thought that this vessel and the Edith M. Pc7v collided during the storm and wenr down together. Crew list — John Bentley, master ; Martin Thomas, Henry Lufkin, Fred Scott, Patrick Durant, Patrick Kennedy, Martin Costello (father-in-law to Capt. Bentley), James Fitzgerald, Martin Conley, John Francis, Joseph Simmons, Patrick Nye, Michael Naughton, Michael King. Value, $5,000; insurance, $4,034, and $1,100 on outfits, in the Gloucester Mutual Fishing Insurance office. Sch. BESSIE W. SOMES, 92.56 tons, owned by George Clark & Co., sailed for Grand Bank Jan. 2, and was last seen Feb. 2 by a returned Bank- er, when she was ready to come home with her trip. She was probably lost FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. 261 in the gale of Feb. 5. Crew list — Merrill Wright, master- Felix Gallant, Peter Scanling, Albert Gardner, Augustus Morine, James Burbank, Daniel Hiltz, William Davidson, Henry McLaughlin, Edward Butt, James Johnson, William Parsons, John McPherson, William Wyman. Value, $6,000; in- surance, $5,598 and $1,200 on outfits, in the Gloucester Mutual Fishing Insurance office, Sch. CHARLES CARROLL. 58.64 tons, owned by Benjamin Montgom- ery & Son, left on a Georges trip Jan. 12, and was last seen the day of the gale. Crew list — John Publicover, master ; Albion Robinson, Herbert Nor- ton (brother-in-law to master), Charles Deimon, W. J. Louder, Robert Wil- kinson, John Hayden, John O'Hara, Fred Watts, Paul McDonald, John Noland. Value, $2,700; insurance, $2,200, in the Gloucester Fishing In- surance office. Sch. BELLEROPHON, 85.65 tons, owned by Michael Walen & Son, left port, Jan. 23, on a Bank halibut trip. She was out in the severe gale of Feb. 5, and it was reported that she was seen previous to this gale with her windlass broken. Crew list — Alfred Wyman, master; James E. Mullen, Lee F, Gilpatrick, -Andrew J. Olson, George Rudolf Liledahl, William W. Marshall, Frank Long, Alexander McCloud, Joseph A. Campbell, James McNair, Francis A. Harding, William H. Cook, Samuel Hayes, H. P. Pe- terson. Value, $6,000, and outfits, $1,200; insurance, $4,300, and $1,200 on outfits, in Gloucester Mutual Fishing Insurance office. Sch, NORTHERNER, 65 tons, owned by Sylvanus Smith & Co., left port Feb. 28 for a Georges trip, and is supposed to have been lost in the ter- rible gale of March 17th. Crew list — Isaac H. Goodwin, master; Israel Goodwin, Amos Goodwin, Robert Lennox, Foster Grayton, George Larken, Daniel McConneskey, Thomas J. Morris, Robert Lennox, James Malone, Thomas Wilson ; Edward A. Gilson, steward. Value, $3,000 ; insurance^ $2,200 and $400 on outfits, in the Gloucester Mutual Fishing Insurance office. Sch. VICTOR, 70.91 tons, owned by J. O. Procter, Jr., also of the Georges fleet, left port March 3, and no tidings were heard from her after the terri- ble gale of the 17th. Crew list — Patrick J. Fanning, also known as Charles Whalen, master ; George Powers, John Callanan, John Welch, Frank Dixon, Dennis Hessian, Thomas Eylward, John Ryan, Martin Simmons, William H. Perrill, James Murphy, Michael Tohey. Value, $4,500 ; insurance, $3,871, and $500 on outfits, in the Gloucester Mutual Fishing Insurance office. Lost Overboard. — George Devine fell from the main-boom of sch. Etta Gott on the passage from Georges Jan. 31 ; John B. Nelson, from sch. Her- man Babson, on the passage to Fortune Bay, N. F., Jan. 2 ; Manuel Re- pose, from sch. Anna B., on Georges, March 17 ; Michael Savage frona sch. 262 FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Smuggler, on Georges, March 20; Capt. George Bearse from s,ch. Jonas If. French, in the mackereling fishery, March 26. Lost in Dories. — Jeremiah Haley and James Dunphy from sch. J/. A. Basfon, Feb. 3. James McGrath, Peter Christian, Charles Rosrnuson and Fred. Keamp, from sch. Corrinna H. Bishop, Feb. 5. With these additions tlie aggregate losses in the fishing business from Gloucester since 1830, the year the Georges fishery commenced, are 2,351 lives, and 428 vessels valued at $1,862,710. The following are the details of the losses from Oct. i, 1873 to Jan. i, 1874. The aggregate is given in the table, but the details were overlooked in making up the account on page 66 ; we therefore insert here. Sch. CONNAUGHT RANGER, 21. 11 tons, owned by Capt. Nicholas Murphy, was wrecked at Fresh Water Cove Oct. 20. Crew saved. Value, $r,ooo; insurance, $500, in the Gloucester Fire Insurance office. Sch. JOHN P. HALE, 38.59 tons, owned by J. F. Wonson & Co., drove out of the harbor on the night of Nov. 17, and was totally wrecked near Old House Cove. Crew saved. Value, $2,000; insurance, $1,800, in the Gloucester Fire Insurance office. Sch. EXCELSIOR, 38.30 tons, owned by Capt. George Merchant, Jr., and others, sunk at her anchors in Marblehead harbor, on the night of Nov. 17. Crew saved. Value, $1,000 ; insurance, $875. Abandoned to the under- writers. Lost Overboard. — George Farrance from sch. Fa?iny Fern, Oct. 5 ; Wil- liam Colwell from sch. Noonday, Oct. 7. Lost in Dories. — George Cook and Jesse Oliver from sch. Tubal Cain^ Oct. 14; Charles Reynolds and Patrick Phalen from sch. Alary E., Oct. 18 ; Moses Cahoon and William Reeves from sch. Sultana, Nov 4; Daniel Man- ning and John Donnelly from sch. William 2\ Smith, Nov. 19. LIST OF VESSELS. The following list comprises the vessels owned in the District of Glou- cester, April 15, 1882, together with the tonnage, the year built, and the fitters' or principal owners' names. All are schooners with the exception of those otherwise designated. GLOUCESTER HARBOR. Kame of Vessel. Tons. When Built. Abbie Dodge, 59.61 1868 Abbott Coffin (stm lighter) ,68.80 1882 Aberdeen, 70.12 1874 A. C. Newhall, 37.81 1858 Active, (sloop,) 73.62 1869 Ada R. Terrv, 69.29 1877 Addie Emma, 37.10 1866 Addle M. Story, 61.36 1867 Addison Center, 74.94 1875 Addison G. Procter, 89.15 1876 Adelia Hartwell, 60.29 1869 Admiral, 77.42 1877 Alaska, 63.87 1867 Albert H. Harding, 64.33 1870 • Alfaretta, 55.32 1858 Alfred Walen, 66.77 1870 Alice, 72.18 1882 Alice, (boat,) 8.11 1878 Alice G. Won son, 64.18 1870 Alice M. Williams, 82.06 1877 A. Lincoln, 46.76 1865 Amos Cutter, 60.35 1865 Anable, (boat,) 16.27 A. N. Clark, 51.46 1853 AnueD., 67.67 1882 Anne & Mary, 72.29 1881 Anna H. Frye, 67.40 1866 Anna H. Mason, 30.64 1875 Annie W. Hodgdon, 25.24 1880 Annie E. Lane, 50.85 1870 Ann Eliza, 58.43 1860 Apollo, (boat,) 12.24 Aqua Pura, (boat,) 11.23 1877 Arequipa, 71.95 1865 Arethusa, (boat,) 17.32 1880 Argonaut, 74. 1876 Owners' or Fitters' Names. S3-lvanus Smith & Co. Francis Locke. James G. Tarr & Bro. Atlantic Halibut Co. Lanesville Granite Co. D. C. & H. Babson. George Garland. Cakes & Foster. D. C. «fe H. Babson. Joseph O. Procter, Jr. D. C. & H. Babson. Joseph O. Procter, Jr. George Norwood & Son. George Norwood & Son. Eli Jackman & Co. Cunningham & Thompson. John Pew & Son. George H. Oakes. William H. Perkins, Jr. D. C. & H. Babson. John Pew & vSon. James G. Tarr & Bro. Master. Atlantic Halibut Co. John Pew & Son. Michael Murray. John F. Wonsou & Co. James Lyle. William Wiley. George Dennis. John Pew «fc Son. Daniel Smith. Peter Hamlin. Rowe & Jordan. Master. James G. Tarr & Bro. 264 LIST OF VESSl Name of Vessel. Tons. When Built. Arizona, 48.95 1857 Aiigaista n. Johnson, Ay en, (boat,) Azalia, 65.71 6.91 13.22 1874 B. A. Kimball, (boat,) Bairacouta, 11.62 68.57 1870 Belleview, 15.61 B. B, Ganploff, (steamer,) B. D. Haskins, 13.65 56.69 1869 1860 B. F. 8omes, 59.22 1868 Blanche Creamer, (boat,) Bloomer, 15.90 50.64 1851 Blue Ja}', 29.10 1865 Bounding Billow, 57.18 1860 Capitola, (boat,) Carleton, 6.61 63.08 1869 Carl Sehurz, 72.60 1872 Carl W. Baxter, 69.38 1882 Carrie C, 75.47 1882 Carrie E. Saj'ward, 62.18 1870 Carthage, 65.94 1877 C. B. Manning, 72.25 186G Centennial, 115.96 1876 Challenge, 56.27 1852 Champion, 68.41 1876 Champion, (boat,) Charger, 19.32 53.91 1859 Charles C. Warren, 108.87 1866 Charles S. Tappan, Charles Haskell, 71.79 65.62 1881 1869 Charles H. IliUlreth, 58.20 1867 Charles P. Barrett, 47.89 1867 Charles V. Thompson, Chester R. Lawrence, 73.53 90.97 1866 1874 Chocorua, 62.87 1869 Christina L., 44.33 Clara I). Swett, (boat,) Clara F. Friend, 14.47 64.93 1867 Clyde, 28.08 1876 Clytie, 72.17 1873 Col. Cook, 64.75 1866 Col. J. II. French, 83.19 1879 Colorado, 58.26 1858 Com. Foote, 63.80 1862 Commonwealth, 85.51 1877 Concord, 98.56 1875 Conductor, 73.66 1877 Constitution, 28.21 1850 Coral, (boat,) Corrinna II. Bishop, 13.99 81.61 1875 Owners' or Fitters' Names. Andrew Leighton. George A. Johnson. Master. Master. Michael Kelly. Rowe «&; Jordan. Master. Master. James G. Tarr & Bro. Samuel Haskell. Sylvanus Smith & Co. John F. Wonson & Co. John F. Wonson & Co. Shute & Meichant. James Bates. John F. Wonson & Co. Rowe & Jordan. Pettengill & Cunningham. Dennis «& Ayer. Sa^ward Bros. George Steele. Dennis & Ayer. D. C. & H.Babson. George J. Tarr «& Co. John Pew & Son. William C. Wonson & Co. John Cliisholm. Amos Racklilie. Andrew Leighton. Samuel Haskell. Wonson Bros. McKenzie, Hardy & Co. Benjamin Low. George Clark & Co. John Pew «fc Sou. Frank W. Miller. Frank Douglass. Benjamin Montgomery. Robert Robinson. Rowe & Jordan. Andrew Leighton. Benjamin Low. Benjamin Montgomery. Cunningham & Thompson. James G. Tarr & Bro. John Pew & Son. Samuel Haskell. Wonson Bros. Herman B. Brown. George Dennis. LIST OF VESSELS. 265 Name of Vessel. Cottage, Crest of the Wave, C. Taylor, 3d, Dacotah, David A. Story, David F. Low, David J. Adams, David M. Hilton, David Shonnan, Dav}' Crockett, Defiance, (boat,) Delia, (boat,) Delia Maria, Dictator, Dido, Dixie, (boat,) Dragon, (boat,) Eastern Light, Eastern Queen, Eben B. Phillips, Eben Parsons, Edward, (boat,) Edward A. Horton, Edward Everett, Edward E. Webster, P^dward Grover, E. K. Kane, Electric Flash, Elislia Crowell, Eliza Abby, Eliza K. Parker, Ella F. Bartlett, Ellen H. Powers, (boat,) Ellen M., (boat,) Ellen M. Adams, E. L. Rowe, Emma, (boat,) Emma 8. Osier, EnolaC, Epes Tarr, Equal, (boat,) Ernest F. Norwood, F^sther Ward, Etta E. Tanner, Etta Gott, Ethel, Eureka, Eva May, P^verett Pierce, Everett Steele, Tons. When Built. 30.39 1846 71.38 1877 33.71 1853 60.44 1858 91.47 1876 60.77 1872 69.86 1867 66.50 1868 71.36 1873 84.97 1876 18.97 1876 10.34 55.75 1864 63.18 1872 81.88 1882 14.98 1881 9.49 70.29 1866 60.11 1860 66.91 1866 91.48 1875 9.83 1876 66.46 1870 57.84 1860 98.80 1875 77.26 1874 52.29 1857 82.19 1859 67.78 1869 49.29 1854 57.05 1857 56.86 1860 18.03 1860 6.43 90.33 1876 68.78 1871 13.23 23.91 1878 65.28 1869 70.06 1873 10.89 74.50 1871 62.23 1868 66.32 1867 59.10 1868 71.73 1881 51.96 1866 27.50 1871 67.94 1881 70.54 1863 Owners' or Fitters' Names. James Parker. William B. Coombs. Eli O. Cleaves. Shutc & Merchant. Benjamin Low. Benjamin Low. Jesse Lewis. Pettingell & Cunningham. James G. Tarr & Bro. James G. Tarr & Bro. Elisha C. Wheeler. William M. Lane. Chresten Nelson. John Pew & Son. George Steele. John Foster. Master. Maddocks «& Co. John Pew & Son. Michael Walen «&: Son. Wra. Parsons, 2d, & Co. Master. Daniel Allen «fe Son. Cunningham & Thompson. Solomon Jacobs. Dennis & A3-er. Michael Walen & Son. T. A. Langsford «fe Sou. Daniel Allen & Son. James Parker. Leonard Walen. John Pew & Son. Patrick Powers. Master. George Norwood «& Son. Samuel Lane & Bro. Atlantic Halibut Co. David A. Osier. Andrew Leighton. James G. Tarr &, Bro. Eben Brazier. George Norwood & Son. Oakes & Foster. Samuel Haskell. SN'lvanus Smith & Co. Sylvanus Smith & Co. Benjamin Low. Howard A. Wonson. J. F. Wonson & Co. B. H. Spinney. 266 LIST OF VESSELS. Name of Vessel. Tons. When Built. E. W. Merchant, 47.84 1850 Excelsior, 38.30 1847 Falcon, 71.67 1873 Fanny Fern, 48.39 1858 Far ra silt. 50.85 1867 F. A.^Smith, 77.10 1869 Finance, 67.58 1869 Fitz J. Babson, 69.25 1871 Flash, 73.37 1875 Fleetwing, 59.29 1859 Flour de Lis, (boat,) 15.40 1879 Flora Temple, 52.59 1858 Flying Scud, 65.88 1870 Frank A. Williams, 66.49 18G9 Frederic Gerring, Jr., 70.88 1870 Fred P, Frve, 85.37 1870 Fred L. Webb, 54.92 1867 F. W. Homans, 66.21 1870 Gardner W. Tarr, 66.07 1875 Garnet, (sloop,) 27.03 1866 Garibaldi, 51.99 1859 Gatherer, 95.70 1876 Gazel, 37.62 1846 George A. Upton, 56.29 1875 George Clark, Jr., 65.25 18G6 George H. Pierson, 68.11 1867 George J. Tarr, 59.85 1869 George 0. Hovey, 63.85 1864 George P. Kust, 65.05 1867 George P. Trigg, 123.56 1868 George S. Boutwell, 66.87 1869 George W. Stetson, 74.32 1869 Georgianna, 52.01 ■ 1851 Gertie E. Foster, 88.28 1874 Gleaner, 63.52 1871 Golden Hind, 74.60 1877 Goldsmith Maid, 51.24 1872 Good Templar, 57.07 1867 G. P. Whitman, 94.39 1874 Grace C. Hadle}', 67.03 1873 Grace L. Fears, 88.94 1874 Gracie Smith, (boat,) 12.63 1880 Gussie Blaisdell, 89.05 1876 11. A. Duncan, 87.70 1876 H. A. Johnson, 60.65 1867 Hannah, (boat,) 8.59 Harvest Home, 66.88 1856 Hattie W. West, 56.36 1866 Hattie Chester, 73.82 1S78 Hattie L. Newman, 98.34 1875 Owners' or Fitters' Names. George J. Tarr & Co. J.J. Burns «fe Co. Andrew Leighton. George Garland. John F. Wonson & Co. Joseph Friend. Shute & Merchant. James Mansfield & Sons. James G. Tarr & Bro. Wonson Bros. Master. Harry Hardy. Joseph O. Procter, Jr. William C. Wonson & Co. Edward ^Morris. John S. McQnin & Co. Michael Walen & Son. George Clark & Co. James G. Tarr & Bro. Francis Locke. George J. Tarr & Co. Rowe & Jordan. T. A. Langsford & Son. Andrew Leighton. (ieorge Clark & Co. Cunningham & Thompson. John F. Wonson tt Co. Benjamin Low. George Clark. Benjan^in Haskell & Sons. McKenzie, Hard}- & Co. Joseph O. Procter, Jr. Stockbridge & Co. George Clark & Co. William C. Wonson & Co. Bowe & Jordan. Kowe ct Jordan. Samuel Lane & Bro. Andrew Leighton. IVttingell & Cunningham. Atlantic Halibut Co. Svlvanus Smith & Co. Sylvanus .Smith & Co. George Steele. Wm. Parsons, 2d, & Co. James Mc(irath. John Knowles. Shute & Merchant, (ieorge Steele. Michael Walen & Son. Name of Vessel. Hattie N. Gove, (3 m'st,) Hattie N. Reed, Hattie S. Clark, Haze, (boat,) Hector, H. B. Griffin, Helen M. Crosby, Helen M. Dennis, Helen R. Low, Henrietta, (sloop,) Henry Ellsworth, Henr}' Friend, Henry L. Phillips, Henr}' Stanberr^-, Henry Wilson, Herald of the Morning, Herbert M. Rogers, Here ward, Herman Babson, Hildegarde, Hope, (boat,) Hope, (boat,) Horace Albert, Howard, Howard Holbrook, Hyperion, Ida A. Maj'hue, (boat,) Ida Chase, (boat,) Ida May, Ida May, (boat,) Ida May, (boat,) Isaac A. Chapman, Isaac Patch, Island Belle, (boat,) Island Home, Ivanhoe, James Bliss, James A. Garfield, Jamestown, Jennie B. Thomas, J. H. G. Perkins, J. J. Clark, Joe Hooker, John D. Griffen, John D. Long, John F. Wonson, John S. McQuin, John Smith, John S. Presson, John W. Bray, LIST OF VESSELS. 26 Tons. Wlien Built. Owners' or Fitters' X.amcs. 1 347.62 1873 Shute & Merchant. 48.04 1867 Michael Walen tt Son. 70.63 1866 Joseph 0. Procter, Jr. 8.04 William Remby. 31.78 1854 Thomas Douglass. 123.93 1875 Daniel Allen & Son. 66.62 1865 Rowe & Jordan, 68.10 1868 George Dennis. 59.25 1881 Benjamin Low. 44.45 1869 Master. 59.33 1865 Sayward Bros. 67.39 1875 Joseph Friend. 80.04 1868 George Dennis. 59.42 1868 William C. Wonson & Co. 93.31 1876 Pettingell & Cunningham. 71.63 1874 John Pew & Son. 77.65 1875 Rowo & Jordan. 90.11 1874 James Mansfield & Sons. 100.52 1876 D. C. & H. Babson. 71.39 1876 Rowe & Jordan. 8.85 1878 Henr}' Dennis. 5.90 Master. 68.70 1880 Sylvanus Smith & Co. 74.80 1874 Sylvanus Smith & Co. 97.47 1877 Cakes & Foster. 68.59 1875 Cunningham & Thompson 12.05 1867 John Shcan. 6.04 Master. 45.17 1855 James Mansfield & Sons. 7.79 Master. 8.96 Albert 0. Wonson. 85.06 1879 D. C. & H. Babson. 72.80 1867 Atlantic Halibut Co. 5.51 Master. 43.32 1860 Albert R. Duley. 75.85 1879 Cunningham & Thompson 62.63 1868 Wm. Parsons, 2d, «fe Co. 73.58 1881 Rowe & Jordan. 69. 1876 George Steele. 50.95 1867 Joseph Friend. 59.23 1867 Burnham & Winter. 69.68 1870 Rowe & Jordan. 62. 1864 Shnte »& Merchant. 104.02 1863 Master. 66.35 1880 Andrew Leighton. 58.03 1868 John F. Wonson & Co. 81.76 1877 John S. McQuin «& Co. 65.51 1868 Oakes & Foster. 92.82 1874 George Clark & Co. 83.41 1875 John F. Wonson & Co. 268 LIST OF VESSELS. Name of Vessel. Tons. When Built. Joseph Garland, 51.44 1866 Joseph 0., 65.12 1867 Joseph Story, 55.32 1860 Josie M. Calderwood, 90. G9 1875 J. S. Lampre}', (3 m'sts,) 306.10 1872 J. \Y. Campbell, 83.21 1881 Knight Templar, 73.20 1870 Knutsford, 83.04 1882 Land seer. 98.99 1875 Laughing AVater, 49.01 1858 Laughing "Waters, 31. 1866 Laura Nelson, 89.35 1874 Laura Sayward, 68.05 1866 Legal Tender, 51.03 1868 Leone, 100.56 1871 Levanter, 50.08 1869 Light Wing, 33.84 Little Antie, (boat,) 5.42 1877 Little Giant, (steamer,) 26.14 1878 Lizzie, 72.47 1875 Lizzie J. Jones, 63.95 1875 Lizzie Myrtle, (boat,) 5.27 1875 Lizzie W. Hannum, 75.12 1868 Lottie K. Friend (3 m'st). 367.09 1873 Lottie iS. Morton, 67.61 1882 Luc}', (boat,) 11.56 Lucy Ann, 46.54 1849 M. A. Baslon, 47.46 1878 Mabel Dillaway, 81.88 1882 Madame Roland, 62.39 1860 Madawaska Maid, 63.06 1868 Magellan Cloud, (boat,) 19.97 Magic, 67.83 1871 Marathon, 68.43 1874 Margaret, 46.55 1866 Margie Smith, 61.13 1875 Marion, 82.25 1877 Marion Grimes, 61.36 1868 Martha and Susan, 70.73 1878 Martha C, 79.16 1875 Martha Jane, (boat,) 16.89 Mary A. Brown, (boat.) 15.65 Mary E., 67.22 1871 Mary F. Chisholm, 73.93 1875 Mary E. Daniels, 67.68 1808 Mary Elizabeth, 22.51 1852 Mar}' Fernald, 80.27 1875 Mary Story, 64.09 1875 Massasoit, 73.03 1868 Massena, 59.54 1860 Owners' or Fitters' Names. Master. Joseph O. Pi'octer, Jr. Charles Dagle. Dennis & Ayer. Master. Benjamin Low. George Steele. .John Pew & Son. Michael Walen & Son. Master. Master. Atlantic Halibut Co. Say ward Bros. Shute & Merchant. W. G. Pool. George Norwood & Sou. B. H. Spinney. Master. Douglass Bros. Daniel Allen «fe Son. Wm. Parsons, 2d, & Co. Master. John Collins. Master. J. F. Wonson & Co. Master. Samuel Haskell. Master. Michael Walen & Son. Burnham & Winter. John S. McQuin & Co. Alex. McCloud. John F. Wonson & Co. George Steele. Benjamin H. Spinney. Sylvanus Smith & Co. Svlvanus Smith & Co. D. C. & II. Babson. Dennis & Ayer. Leonard Walen. Simeon McCloud. John Ciuthrie. Shute & Merchant. Benjamin Low. Leonard Walen. George Norwood & Son. Dennis & Ayer. Sayward Bros. McKenzie, Hardy & Co. Wm. Parsons, 2d, «& Co LIST OF VESSELS. 2 Kame of Vessel. Tons. When Built. Owners' or Fitters' Xames. Matthew Kean}', 69.80 1882 Maddocks & Co. Maud F. Leighton, 72.55 1882 Andrew Leighton. Maud Gertrude, (boat,) 15.01 Daniel Gill. Metacora. (boat,) 11.31 Master. M. H. Perkius, 76.14 1876 George Dennis. Midnight, 69.48 1865 Maddocks «& Co. Minnehaha, (boat.) 10.18 Master. Minnie Dell, (boat,) 8.27 Master. Mist, 72.39 1875 James G. Tarr & Bro. M. L. Wetherell, 69.42 1865 Shute & Merchant. Monmouth, 71.68 1876 George Steele. Moro Castle, 88.85 1874 McKenzie, Hardy & Co. Morrill B03', (boat,) 17.08 1878 B. D. ILiskins. Mountain King, 54.58 Benjamin G erring. Mystic, 83.09 1879 John McKinnon. M. G. 0. B., (boat,) 6.38 Master. Napoleon, (boat,) 7.01 Master. Nelson Wells, 63.20 1853 Michael Walen & Son. Nevada, 62.06 1868 Michael Walen & Son. New England, 86.29 1877 John Pew & Son. Newsboy, (boat,) 12.67 1877 Master. Noonda}', 75.25 1873 Maddocks «& Co. Northern Eagle, 36.97 1857 George H. Martin. Northern Star, 56.16 1860 Joseph 0. Procter, Jr. Notice, 66.50 1868 Master. Nellie Burkett, (boat,) 6.97 Master. Nelson Y. McFarland, 69.15 1881 Samuel Lane & Bro. Nellie N. Rowe, 83.22 1882 Rowe & Jordan. Ocean King, 79.79 1877 Maddocks & Co. Ocean Ranger, 57.20 1858 Wra Parsons, 2d, & Co. Oceanus, 47.44 1870 William Gibbs. Oliver Eldridge, 65.86 1870 George Steele. Ontario, 91.29 1873 John Pew & Son. Onward, 45.47 1852 James G. Tarr «fe Bro. Optimates, (boat,) 6.65 1866 George Won son. Orient, 93.76 1875 Charles Lee. Ossipee, 72.58 1872 Cunningham «fc Thompson Otis P. Lord, 75.63 1876 Dennis & Ayer. Pathfinder, 67.26 1871 Wm. Parsons, 2d, & Co. Percy, 72.27 1878 Dennis & A^'er. Peter D. Smith, 69.49 1868 Oakes & Foster. Phantom, (yacht,) 72.56 1865 Henry S. Hove}'. Phantom, 30.05 1875 David Lyle. Phaselus, (boat,) 14.30 INI aster. Phoenix, 60.33 1869 George Clark & Co. Pioneer, 66.19 1872 James G. Tarr & Bro. Piscataqua, 64.51 1866 John F. Wonson & Co. Planet, 32.24 1845 Master. Pluribustah, 20.39 1865 Master. Polar Wave, 90.93 1875 Andrew Leighton. 270 LIST OF VESSELS. Name of Vessel. Tons. When Built. Procter Brothers, 77.05 1876 Pl3-moutb Rock, 96.94 1876 Racer, 63.95 1852 Ralph E. Eaton, 68.96 1877 Rambler, 66.91 1865 Rattler, 82.72 1859 R. D. Litchfield. Jr.,(st.,^ 1 5.45 1871 Rebecca Burtlett, 67.01 1869 Reporter, 83.61 1874 Restless, 66.47 1870 Rising Star, 29.48 1871 Richard Lester, 72.72 1881 Rough & Read}', 39.21 1847 Royal Oak, 84.58 1846 Rushlight, 66.98 1863 Rutherford B. Haj-es, 71.84 1877 Ruth Groves, 68.82 1867 S. A. Parkhurst, 53.35 1861 Sarah C. Pyle, 52.62 1869 Sarah C. Wharff, 51.43 1871 Sarah E. Wetherell, (st.,) 22.48 1872 Sarah M. Jacobs, 80.04 1878 Sarah P. A3-er, 71.38 1869 Schuyler Colfax, 62.82 1868 Sea Foam, 57.88 1853 Sea Witch, (boat,) 7.77 Seth Stockbridge, 89.94 1875 Shiloh, 85.98 1874 Shooting Star, (boat,) 14.96 Sigfrid, 76.54 1882 Smuggler, 67.92 1877 Solomon Poole, 86.20 1876 Sophronia, 57.03 1860 S. P. Greenleaf, (boat,) 11.07 S. R. Lane, 72. 1873 Star of the East, 56.13 1867 Starry Flag, 59.50 1871 Sterling, 63.62 1868 St. Michael, 28.24 1865 St. Patrick, (boat,) 17.79 1859 Sultana-, 69.84 1869 Sunshine, 66.29 1866 Samuel B. Jones, (st.,) 33.54 1872 Senator, (pinkey,) 32.67 1831 Susie Hooper, 76.91 1882 Thomas W. Knight, 66.26 1881 Teddie, (boat,) 10.57 1878 Telephone, 20.25 1878 Tidal Wa\e, 70.28 1871 T. L. Mayo, 62.46 1866 0\vners' or Fitters' Karnes. Daniel Allen &■ Son. George Steele. Walter M. Fait. James G. Tarr & Bro. D. C. & H. Babson. Andrew Leigh ton. Master. Cakes & Foster. John F. Wonson & Co. George Clark «fe Co. Jesse McCloud. James G. Tarr & Bro. John Carter. U. C. & H. Babson. John F. Wonson & Co. Dennis & Ayer. James Mansfield & Sons. ¥A\ Jackman &, Co. Joseph Friend. George Clark & Co. Dennis & Ayer. Samuel Lane & Bro. Dennis & A^'er. Joseph O. Procter, Jr. Walter M. Fait. Master. George Norwood & Son. John Pew & Son. Master. Cunningham & Thompson. Andrew Leighton. Cunningham & Thompson. Benjamin Low. Master. Samuel Lane & Bro. Master. Win. Parsons, 2d, & Co. John Pew & Son. Michael Curon. Peter Conley. Andrew Leighton. John Pew & Son. Master. John Parker. Daniel Allen & Son. Andrew Leighton. Master. •Joseph Lyle. Jolui Pew & Son. James G. Tarr & Bro. LIST OF VESSELS. !7I Name of Vessel. Tragabigzauda , Triton, Tubal Cain, U. S. Grant, (boat,) Undine, Veteran, Vidette, Viking, Vision, Volunteer, Wachusett, Waldo Irving, Wanderer, (sloop,) Webster Sanborn, Welcome, W. E. Terry, Wildfire, Wild Pigeon, William A. Pew, William H. Raymond, William H. Oakes, William M. GaflTney, William S. Baker, William V. Hutcliings, Willie M. Stevens, William E. McDonald, William H. Foye, William Parsons, 2d, Willie, Winged Arrow, Witchcraft, Z. S. Wallingford, (boat, Zenobia, Tons. G8.03 71.51 63.39 7.19 10.34 63.64 58.07 .73.63 50.37 69.58 79.14 64.35 13.66 99.89 61.26 63. 108.90 46.87 70.19 70. 70.89 74.65 103.95 62.68 80.56 98.37 70.45 64.41 91.58 58.85 57.73 ) 9.86 78.73 When Built. 1870 1875 1871 1865 1867 1875 1863 1874 1880 1881 1876 1877 1869 1866 1852 1866 1867 1878 1877 1860 1866 1877 1875 1871 1870 1880 1866 1859 1881 Owners' or Fitters' Names. Wonson Bros. Say ward Bros. Wm. C. Wonson & Co. Neheraiali Adams. Henry Smith. Benjamin ^lontgomery. McKenzie, Hardy & Co. James Mansfield & Sons. Master. Jose|)h Smith. Cunningham & Thompson. John F. Wonson & Co. Master. Maddocks & Co. John Pew & Son. J. O. Procter, Jr. Andrew Leighton. Daniel Allen & Son. James Mansfield «& Sons. Dennis & Ayer. Atlantic Halibut Co. Joseph Smith. Joseph Friend. George Friend & Son. George Dennis. Wra. Parsons, 2d, & Co. S3'lvanus Smith & Co. Wm. Parsons, 2d, & Co. Master. Sylvanus Smith & Co. William B. Coombs. John Cadwallader. George Steele. ROCKPORT. Name of Vessel. Active, (sloop,) Alfred A., (sloop,) America, (sloop,) Anna M., (boat,) Ann Parker, Belle of Cape Ann, (sloop,) C. E. Trumbull, Charlie B03', (boat,) Charlie Stedman, Cock of the Walk, (sloop,) Cora Lee, Corinua M., Tons. When Built. 73.62 1869 76.47 1874 91.46 1869 11.49 54.02 1850 78.22 1860 99.80 1870 8.51 1880 84.78 1872 55.08 1853 47.30 1867 39.61 1857 Owners' or Fitters' Names. Lanesville Granite Co. Rockport Granite Co. Jeremiah Pettingell. Henry L. Story. Pigeon Hill Granite Co. Rockport Granite Co. C. E. Trumbull. Howard H. Paul. Lanesville Granite Co. Rockport Granite Co. John Stor^', Jr. Master. 272 LIST OF VESSELS. Name of Vessel. Daniel Webster, (sloop,) Edith Bean, Edith L. Conle}', Fanny R,, Franklin S. Schenck, Glide, (boat,) Golden Rule, Hard Chance, (sloop,) Ida Maj', (sloop,) Isabella, Jenny Lind, (boat,) John P. Ober, Josephine, Joseph M. Lane, J. Y. Baker, Lad}' Lincoln, Lizzie D. Saunders, L. Snow, Jr., Lodowick Bill, Mary Ellen, Minnie, (boat,) Nellie Florence, (boat,) Nellie T. Gaskell, (boat,) New Era, (sloop.) Parnet, Pinafore, (boat,) Queen of the Sea, (boat,,) (.Quickstep, School tJirl, (boat,) Screamer, (sloop,) Shooting Star, (boat.) Sina Shore, Theresa, (o mast,) Waverly, Tons. When Built. Owners' or Fitters' Names 40.11 1853 Pigeon Hill Granite Co 17.22 Francis Tarr, Jr. 58.90 1876 Master. 55.37 1859 Master. 46.03 1869 Bradley & Co. 7.81 Henry W. Colburn. 41.67 1862 Zenas Brown. 64.60 1855 Lanesville Granite Co. 63.05 1855 Rockport Granite Co. 50.61 1851 C. C. Pool. 15.1)6 Master. 55.72 1873 38.68 1868 John Stor}', Jr. 53.73 1852 Eben Blatchford. 55.69 1849 Master. 26.42 1861 Joshua Tarr. 43.54 1867 John Story, Jr. 41.90 1851 Master. 59.93 1866 A. C. Pierce. 54.11 1855 John Stor}', Jr. 6.60 Master. 7.13 IMaster. 15.12 Joshua Tarr. 62.54 1853 Rockport Granite Co. 21.19 1838 Master. 10.65 Loring Grimes. 11.73 A. B. Seaborn. 29.08 1856 Master. 9.08 Master. 63.93 1873 Pigeon Hill Granite Co 10.70 Master. 12.64 Master. 226.68 1874 George J. Tarr & Co. 52.09 1853 J. Story, Jr. MANCHESTER Name of Vessel. Tons. When Built. Mary A. Downes, (boat,) 12.24 1878 Ranter, (boat,) 5.07 Owners' or Fitters' Names. George A. Jones. Gorham Morse. Name of Vessel. America, (yacht.) Ik'lle Gilinore, Bonita, (])oat,) Eva May, I Am Here, (boat,) A NNIS Q UA M. Tons. When Built. Owners' or Fitters' Names. 89.59 1«49 Jonas H. French. 46.08 1853 IMaster. 18.67 IMaster. 27.50 1871 Master. 11.06 Master. LIST OF VESSELS. 273 Name of Vessel. Island Home, (boat,) John INIcttler, May S. Round}-, (boat,) Sardina, (boat,) Venus, (boat.) Vesper, (boat,) Wide Awake, Tons. Wheu Built. Owners' or Fitters' N 12.02 Master. 62. cS3 1848 Master. 11. IG Geo. W. Langsford 9.11 Bartlett Morgan. 12.44 1878 Master. 17.10 Master. 63.41 1859 Master. The aggregate number of vessels and tonnage enrolled in this district when this list was made up, April 15, 1882, comprised 483 vessels, with a tonnage of 27,809.75. Of this number, 423 belong to Gloucester Harbor, of a tonufige of 25,254.90: 353 schooners, 4 sloops, 1 3'acht, 6 steamers, 59 boats. Rockport has 2,156.57 tonnage, 46 vessels: 25 schooners, 10 sloops, 11 boats. Annisquara, 380.97 tonnage, 12 vessels: 4 schooners, 1 yacht, 7 boats. Manchester, 17.31 tonnage, comprising 2 boats. FISHING FIRMS AND FITTING-OUT ESTABLISHMENTS. The number of fishing firms and fitting-out establishments in Gloucester Harbor at this date, April 15, 1882, is 46, which lit out 302 schooners and boats. The balance of the fleet is composed of vessels whose masters are owners, and the}' fit where they please. Messrs. John Pew & Son are the largest fitters, having 19 vessels; James G. Tarr & Bro. come next, with 16, and J. P. Wonson & Co. are third on the list, with 15 ; Andrew Leigh- ton fits 14 ; Rowe & Jordan, 13 ; two, 12 each, two, 11 ; two 10, four, 9 ; one, 8; three, 7; five, 6; five, 5; two, 4; four, 3; eight, 2; three, 1. The following is the list of the Gloucester Harbor fishing firms and fitting- out establishments, with their number of vessels: Atlantic Halibut Co., 7 Burnham & Winter, 2 Daniel Allen & Son, 7 D. C. & H. Babson, 11 J. J. Burns & Co., 1 Cunningliam »& Thompson, 10 George Clark & Co., 9 William B. Coombs, 2 Dennis & Ayer, 12 George Dennis, 6 Joseph Friend, 5 Walter M. Fait, 2 George Garland, 2 Samuel Haskell, 6 B. Haskell & Sons, 1 Eli Jackman «fe Co., 2 Samuel Lane & Bro., 5 Andrew Leighton, 14 T. A. Langsford & Son, 2 Benjamin Low, 9 Benjamin Montgomery, 4 James Mansfield & Sons, 6 John S. McQiiin & Co., 3 McKenzle, Hardy & Co., 5 Maddocks & Co., 6 George Norwood & Son, 7 Oakes & Foster, 6 John Pew & Son, 19 274 LIST OF VESSELS. J. O. Procter, Jr., 9 William Parsons, 2d, & Co., 10 Pettiugell (S: Cunningham, 4 Rowe & Jordan, 13 Sjdvanus Smith & Co., 12 George Steele, 11 Sayward Bros., 5 Shute & Merchant, 9 B. H. Spinney, 2 Joseph Smith, ' 2 Seth Stockbridge & Co., 1 James G. Tarr & Bro. , 1 6 George J. Tarr, 3 J. F. Wonson & Co., 15 Leonard Walen, 3 Wonson Bros., 3 AVilliam C. Wonson & Co., 5 Michael Walen & Son, 8 I. W. CAEf I MANUFACTURER OP TIBZE^'S Sou' Westers, Grand Bank Hats, Beverly Hats, Carter's Home -Made Drawers, SHIRTS, JUMPERS, OVERALLS, ^c. ALSO, WHOLESALE AND RETAIL DEALER IN FISHERMEN'S OUTFITS, OF EVERY DESCRIPTION. Principal Manufactory at BEVERLY, Mass. BRANCH STOKE AT GLOUCESTER, Mass., cor. Rogers and Duncan Streets. Manufacturers of tflft^ SAIL BOATS, SEINE BOATS, J ^tROW BOATS, PILOT CANOES, 'T 'f oi*ies £iii orilcrand salisfaftioii •'•uaraiitccd. M. B. JACKMAN & CO., MANUFACTURERS OF 0@tt©i Lliiip Best Quality, All Sizes. A speeialty nf Tarred Lines of the various- sizes required for sea tishing. LINE-WALK AND FACTORY AT Newburyport, Mass. MonKs 1!.,Ja(kmax, L,konaisi) a. 15i;knham, Nowbunport. Gloucester. Chas. H. Boyntoii, Wood and Coal Gloucester, iMass. Office Rear Cape Ann Savings Bank. N. BOYNTON & CO., (S; & 89 Commerdal Street, BOSTON, MANUFACTURERS OF XTlSriTEID STu^TES, Yacht, 8 oz. 10 oz. 1 2 oz. SOLE AGENTS FOR THE AND IMPORTERS OF HOTH'S RUSSIA- BOTLTROPB. WM. COOS, JR., Tarred and Repaired. OVER CALL'S SPAR SHOP, VINCENT SPRING, Rear John Pew if Sons, Gloucester, Mass. .8®= NETS, SEINES, TWINE and PISHING NETTINGS, of every de.'icriplion, furnished tii order. ALL work guaranteed. Joseph Simpson, manufacturer of Sdiiiandliti OF ALL TtESCRIPTIOXS. a^TAKRING and UEI'AIKING done in the l)est manner. PARKHURST'S WHARF, Foot of Duncan St,, r. O. Box 702. GLOUCESTER, Mass. BOSTON & GLOUCESTEE For Freight and Passengers, Malvlng Connections with all Railroad and Steanisliip Lines out of Boston. Through Rates and Bills of Lading given. Leaves Boston Daily (Sundays excepted) at •1 P. M. and lO.l.i A. M. Leaves Gloucester Daily at 3 and 7 A. M. Cldiiecstcr, Mass. Central Wliarf, I5..s;oi), Ma.ss. EISHERMEN! YOU CAN riNI) The Genuine Annisquam Loot, And all other stvh-s for sea or shore wear. Pri- ces alwavs the LOWEST, tfi,- REPAIRING Iiipiiialc, JAMES A. DAVID, -iS Ivlain St., ^F'oot of Slicrt. »^: \ DUCK CO. ' M. F. WHITON & CO., -a.c3-e:ltts ^o:E^ HINGHAM CORDAGE COMP'Y LAWRENCE MILLS COTTON DUCK. X)E:.A.ijE3ias iisr Wire Rope, Chains, Anchors, Bolt Rope, Oakum, Bunting, &c. Cables a Specialty. 31 cSs 33 COZMIOivdlEISCI^f^Xj ST., BOSTON. Ivd:. IF'. T77"HIT02Sr. The Fishermen's Memorial & Reeonl Book, A Companion Volume to "THE FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK," Gives you Intert-sting fncts relative to tlic flslierics. How llshi are canf?lit, and wlicrc tiiey are cauKlit, iilili'ii time ami iiio.lirii tlmi- Msliiiijj;, Ovv Hand Skkt( hes, Hi<; Tkii-s, Statistios ok TiiK l'isiii;i!ii..>*, 'lAiJ-s <>i Nauhow ICscai'ks, KkahI'I I, Gai.es, MAinrniK I'oi/rKV, and otluM- matters of intcrot conrcrniii}; lids important liiilustry. W-rv liandsonit-ly illus(ral('(l with ori>rinal (•nKravin),'s. I'rioe $1.00 in I'api'r Covers; $1.50 llnely bonnd in Clotli. Sent anywhere on receipt of iiriec. Agents wanted to whom exclusive territory will he given. Liberal commissionis. Write for parlicularH. PLUXJTIJ/i' lih'OS.. Piihlishcrs. Ail r,', -User 0(fir<\ (ilonrcster. Mass. Wm. R. Call, House and Sim Painter o Graining, Paper Hanging, Kalsomining, Whitewashing, &c, ALSO DEALER IN Room Paper, Borders and Cur- tain Qoods, 42 Washington Street, Corner of Granite, GEIFFIN,COOK&;CO., PAINTING, GRAINING, Coloring, Glazing, Paper Hanging. House and Vessel work prompt- ly attended to. Sashes and Blinus constantly on hand. Siyu Painting and Deeoratinffa Specialty. Thaddeiis (Jriffiii, H. A. Cook, K. L Cock. H. L. FEARING & CO., AGENTS OF WilllMiiE WPt WMfea OF LIVERPOOL, England. Proprietors of STANDARD CHAIN CABLE WORKS. 91 k 93 Commercial Street, and 33 Mercantile Street, BOSTON. GEO. E. HALL, SIGN AND ORNAMENTAL Signs and Show Cards of all descriptions. Gilding, M'ayside Advertising, Orna- menting, and Furniture Painting done with neatness, cheapness and dispatch. Oor. Chestnut & Main Sts., over Perry's Picture Store, O-lo-u-cester, - IMIass. ALL ORDERS RECEIVE PROMPT ATTENTION AT SHOP, ENTRANCE ON CHESTNUT ST. John S. Carter, DEALER IN Beef. Pork, Mutton, HAWI, POULTRY, Vegetables, Butter, Cheese, Lard, Canned Goods, &.C., A few doors east of Atlantic House, 31 MAIN ST., GLOUCESTER. JosephC. Shepherd, — DEALER IN BEEF, PORK, MUTTON, Ham, Poultry, Vegetables, &.c. BUTTER, CHEESE, LARD, EGGS, kc. Nos. 2 and 4 Main Street, GT^OUCESTER, MA.SS. IAS. CUNNINGH.AM, HoosMiiii'aiGiPiiim, PAINTS, OILS, PURE COPPER PAINT GLASS AND PUTTY. .Special attention paid to GRAIXINti in all ivtlors. Orders lor Paper llaiiKinfr, \Vliite\va.'#liinK. Kalsomininj,' ami (Jla/.injr promptly attended to. SHOP AT CITY LANDING, COMMERCIAL ST., QLOUGESTEMi = - MA^S, ACHIM JOHNSON, ■ SUCCESSOU TO JOB jirnxsoN & S0]1» FISH HOOK ai NEEDLE IIS Cor. Myrtle and Bedford Aves., Brooklyn, N. Y. -IvI.A.liTTT^.^CTXTrK.EZe OrF ■ Best Cast vSteel Wire, General Hardware, Different Kinds of Patent, and all other descriptions of Fish Hooks, iSail Needles, Pack and Bag Needles, Mattress Needles, Upholsterers' Needles, Surgeons' Needles, Spaying Needles, Scarf Needles, Dissecting Needles, Dis- secting Hooks, Plain and Swiveled Sail Hooks, Sailors' cC* Sail-Makers' Palms. Straighl Rod or Tortional Door Springs, Automatic Gate llanhvarc, Bur- glar Proof Blind and Shutter Fastenings, Tlie Universal Clothes Line Holder, and all descriptions of Steel "Wire Goods, Machinery', Springs, etc., etc. jV. (S. — (Particular Attention paid to Te^mpering and Finishing all kinds of Steel Wire Goods. GREAT AMERICAN AUTOMATIC GATE HARDWARE, ^ateiited., Sept. SVtli, IS'/O. O CO o CD •-i CD i-Q CD Pi-. CD CD M^ "^ O CD I— '■ CD CD CD THIS AUTOMATIC GATE HARDWARE, While marvelously ingenious in construction, is iiardly possible to get out of repair. If the gate sags bj- frost or otherwise, the owner can adjust or correct it bv screwing the upper Hinge into the Post. It admits the Gate to swing either or both ways — is sure to close the Gate — and the Latch sure to fasten itself. Is made for both Iron and Wood Gates. To GATE MAKERS and GATE USERS, look at the ar- ticle and judge for yourselves. Their application to use is so simple, that a compara- tive Child may apply them. The entire Hardware for the use of the Gate, embracing this Patent AVTOMATIC GATE LATCH AND HINGES, arc packed all together, in a strong paper box, with a circular attached thereto, ex- plaining the whole matter of their application and use — then six of the above boxes are placed in a large box which is properly labeled and marked, and so sold to the Market, in boxes of half dozen full sets of Gate Hard- ware, with screws complete. SOLD AT ALL HARDWARE STORES. We are prepared to furnish Cornet Players with instruments of the best foreign ami Amehicax MANiKACxruE, wliicli luive been pronounced bj' lirst-class artists to be the best and most perfect instruments inannfiictnred. This is a branch of the world-reiiowiied liouse of OLIVER DITSON & CO., wliere special bargains in MUSICAL INSTliUMENTS OF ALL KINDS and makes, are constant- ly being offered. All our instruments iire MADE ESPECIALLY FOK OUlt TllADE, by skilled workmen, have been thoroujrhly tested, AND AUE WAUHANTED as lirst-class iu ever\ ri-~pi'rt. We always keep in stock a (complete assortment of BAND AND OKCIIES- TKAL INstia MENTS, (UrrAUS, Misic Boxes, Vioeins, Banjos, Sheet Mrsic and Music Books, and general ,M(SI(;ae Meki'iiandise. Send for Illustrated Catalogue to 33 Court Street, (directly opposite Court House,") BOSTON, Mass. ^Ia,23.Tj.fa,ct-u.rers cf Patent Inside Iron Strapped Blocks, Oars, &c.. Dealers in V700DEN AND IRON SHIP CHANDLEEY. Steam Factory, Duncan Street, Between Custom House and Marine Railways. Carving and Gilding, and Eepairing Blocks of all kinds G.H.BLATCHFORI) 216 Main St., corner Chestnut, GLOUCESTER, MASS. Drugs, Chemicals, Fancy Articles, Perfumery, &c. Fine Wines and Liquors for Meili- M cinal |)uri)oses. I'KESCKIPTJONS accurately com- ]>iniiided. ADDISON WITHAM, h A LOFT AT ^ BURM1A31 BB08; RAILWAY, Water St., Gloucester, All Work Warranted. Satisfaction Guaranteed. Howard's Dining Hooms, Is the place for a good meal at any hour of ihe day <>r evening'-. The room over the Dinin;;- Estali- lislinient has hei'u fitted ui) as No. 55 Main St., (iloucester, iMass., ■ood meal at any hour of ihe day <>r evening'-. The room over I lislinient has hei'ii fitted ui) as Where all are invited tosi>end a socialhour. Fishermen are conlially invited to visit " THE HUJ$," and all will be welcome. GEO. W. HOWARD, - - Proprietor. The Oldest Hardware Store in the City! 76 M^IJV ^TI^EET. 3 OI¥^ffl BuiUiiifi Materials Dry and Tarred Slieathing Paper, Carpenters' Tools, Nails, Brushen, Cutlery, Rubber Moul- ding, Garden and Farming Tools, etc. 76 Main Street, ©lQtJ,cester« = Mass. 6E0. h. ¥WW>, SAIL MAKER And Ship Chaniller. Hemp, Manila and Wire Cordage of all Kinds, constantly on hand. Also FLAGS and FLIES. Loft on Duncan Street, 6E0I^6E STEELE, Insurance Agent AND BROKER, Will take risks in the BOSTON MARINE IN- SURANCE COMPANV, NORTH BRITISH and MERCANTILE, of Loudon and Edinljurgh, CITY of LONDON FIRE INSURANCE COM- PANY , of Loudon, England, (Limited,) METROPOLE INSURANCE COMPANY, of Paris, And the DORCHESTER MUTUAL FIRE IN ■ SURANCE COMPANY. Office iu Rooms of GLOUCESTER MUTUAL FISHING INSURANCE CO., 0pp. the Post Office, Main Street, ^l@ticest©r. - Mass, All wishing Insuraiife of any kind are invi- ted to call and learu rates. On Georges in a Storm ! This BEAUTIFUL PAINTING Has been Photographed, and copies may be ob- tained of Procter Brothers. It is a line pict- ure, showing two schooners riding at anchor and another jogging under a double-reefed fore- sail. Just such a picture as everybody wants. Copvright secured according to law. Send 75 cents to PROCTER BROS., . . Gloucester, Mass., and receive by return mail one of tlie above pictures. RANGES and STOVES. :E='a.lla.3 :EBsLrxg^es a,re ^11 11:10 O-o I 100,000 ALREADY SOLD. I have a large assortment of the best Ranges and Stoves in the -Alarkct, and think I can suit all iu want of anything in this line. I have now in store, Pallas, Welcome, Revere, Hudson, Lyra. Morden, Our Choice, Supreme, Concord, Temple and Active Ranges, at prices ranging from $15 to $60; ami a choice variety of PARLOR STOVES from $5 to $35. I have also ou baud 25 Second-liand Parlor Cooking Stovks, which Avill be sold very cheap. A full assortment of CROCKERY WARE selling cheap. Call and see my stock before purchasing elsewhere. A. F. HARVEY, 59 Washington St., Gloucester. THOMAS RENTON, -DEALEK IN- Fmces, Hues And S^TOVES*;. A good assortment of TIN WAKE, PUMPS, and SINKS of all sizes. NEXT DOOR TO rOST OFFICE, EAST GLOUCESTER. *^ • Low Prices, Casli Sales, First-class Goods Nelson s Pat. Duck PreseiTer CFj^T. T.£iJ2^. IS^S.) CHRESTEN NELSON, Prop. Warranted to protect. Shlpn' Sailn, Atvninga, Tents, and all kinds of Hemp and Cot- ton Canvas from Mildew and Decay. SAILS, Ac, saturated in tins PHESEUVER, will keep free from mildew and mould till worn out, and remain white as when new, as shown liy num- erous Testimonials, after a test of two years. MANUFACTURED AT /\lo. 307 Main St., Gloucester. Mass. SEND FOR CIRCULAR. I. Nos. 139 FRIEND &l 46 CANAL STREETS, You can always find a full assortment of the latest styles of Furniture at fair prices. When in Boston please give me a call. BILLIARD PARLOR, FITZ E. MCINTOSH, PROPRIETOR. THE above Parlor Is flttcd u]! in a neat style, . •111(1 parties wishing ti> play a cosy unuui of Billiards are invited to call. The best of order preserved, and ' everything flrst-class, including Bailey's New Patent Cushion Tables. 96 Main Street, - Gloucester, Mass- taes&Suppoftefs, A LARGE ASSORTMENT OF Hard Rubber & Leather Trusses, Made by the best manufacturers aud of the best materials. My experience for over twenty years in this line of business warrants nie in garantoeing to give AS PERFECT A FITTIXG TliUSS as can be procured in Boston or Neio York, and I am selling them at about ONE- HALF THE PRICE usually charged for such goods. Price from $1.00 to $6.00, and a perfect fit warranted in every case. The money returned for every truss that is not satis- factory. Those needing'goods of this kind will find it for their interest to give me a call. I also make a specialty of Siii>porters, Belts, Elastic Stock- ings, Susiyensory Bandages & Rub- ber Goods. Cor. MAIN & HANCOCK Sts., Gloucester, Mass. James Davis, JUSTICE of the PEACE, NOTARY PUBLIC, -A-"crc T I o n>T E E xa , r «S-rROBATE BUSINESS ATTENDED TO. RERGENGREy'S BLOCK, 132 Main St., - Gloucester. C. F. DOEBLE, Manufacturer of aai Dealer iu all kinds of Domestic Slmpofted CIGARS, Tobacco, Pipes, &c. Largest stock, Lowest ; ^^^\^,^\^ a^j Retail. No. 230 MAIN STREET, GLOUCESTER, MASS. PHCENIX BILLIARD PARLOR W^WBJMt ®il@"Wlf,, :^r@p^i©ta>ir» Takes pleasure in announcing that the above establishment, near the head of Duncan street, In the new brick building, is now open to the pub- lic, and is lilted up in the be.arc hours of the day at their disposal, in good company. Come in and inspect the premises. All wlU be welcome. • tt. M, HILTOM ^ Teaming and Boarding Stable. All kinds of Heavy and Lioht Trucking and Tcamingr •^ o o o Orders for Haulingr Fish or Ballast entrusted to me will meet with prompt personal attention. Vessels Discharged and Satisfaction Guaranteed. Main cor. of PcarceSt., j GLOUCESTER, MASS. Each issue has all the Local News of Cape Ami, together with all the Fishing Items, a reliable Fish Market, good Story and choice Miscellaneous Heading Matter, making it emphatically THE PEOPLE'S PAPER. T'b& Be&t AdiYQSti§ias Med-ium qjs the Cspe* CIRCULATION, 3,S00 COPIES. Terms, $2.65 per year, which includes postage, strictly in advance. Sent to any part of the countiy on receipt of price. $2.50 within Essex County. Subscribe for it if you wish tn peruse a Live Local Newspaper. Address PROCTER BROTHERS, . Editors And Proprietors, Gloucester, Mass. prader |^oom pajjer parlar "Old Corner," 110 Main Street, Gloucester, tastefuUv litted up, with ceiling and walls elegantly decorated, sliowing tlie modern style of art in Paper Hanging. This room is hllcd witli the largest stock of Room Paper, Borders, Decorations, Win- dow Shades and Curtain Goods, this side of Boston, and is well patronized. riNE GOODS, LOW PlilCES. Dry ui PicHei Fisl O-IjOXJCESTEI^, IVvdl-A^SS. Boneless and Prepared Fish a Specialty DYEING & CLEANSING 251 & 253 Main St., Gloucester, Mass. Ladies' and Gents' Garments and Wearing Apparel of all kinds dyed in a superior style. Gents' Garments $2.00 a suit. Good worii, low prices. Save money and give us a trial. Agency for the best LAUNDRY in New Eng- land. EBEN p. MIFKIN, BLACKSMITH JTorse Shoeinff^ Carriage Work and Jobbing Promptly attended to. SHOP 78 WESTERN AVENUE. GLOUCESTER, MASS. WMMM^'M.'B^^'m PUBLISHED BY- PROCTER BROTHERS, Gloucester, Mass. By Hon. John $2.00. Paper, Si. 00; HISTORY OF GLOUCESTER. J. Bahson, $10.00. G LOUC KSTE R 1) I R ECTORY . FISHERMEN'S OWN BOOK. Cloth, SL50. FISHERMEN'S MEMORIAL AND RECORD BOOK. rapcM-, :>0 cts. ; Cloth, $1.00. THE FISHERIES OF GLOUCESTER FROM 1623 TO 1X76. Paper, 50 cts. ; Cloth, 75 cts. FISHERMEN'S BALLADS, or, Son2;s of the Sea. 50 cts. NORA RAY, THE CHILD MEDIUM. Paper, 50 cts. GEORGES' FISHING SCHOONER IN A STORM. Large Photograph ; 75 cts . MAP OF GLOUCESTER AND CAPE ANN. 50 cts. STEREOSCOPIC VIEWS OF THE ROMANTIC SCENERY OF CAPE ANN. 1000 subjects. 20 cts. each ; $2.00 per doz. SimkI for Catalogue. All the above sent by Mail, to any part of the World. FRANCIS PROCTER. GEORGE H. PROCTER. ^A^-crsTi2sr :b. :bib.uA^-^, le m^i^'uomm'itmM, m^^mm. Office and Wharf, Rogers Street. GLOTJCESTEE. FIRE INSURANCE COMPANY, First National Bank Blocic, OPP. POST OFFICE, - - MAIN ST., GLOUCESTER. Fire and Marine Risks effected at lowest market rates. ROBERT R. FEARS, President. JOHN CUNNINGHAM, Sec. CLARK 8d PRESSON, -*->5^ m ^^^-yi 21 ROOERS STREET, WILLIAM H. CROSS, Sailmakef and Ship Chandler, Constantly on hand a full assortment of CORDAGE USED IN THE Fisheries COMPKISING Hoth's Best Russia Hemp Bolt Rope for Purse Lines, Bunt- ing, Flags, Flys, «&c., at Tarr's Wharf, Rocky Neck, East (Jloucester. Moses Merlett, Rigger & Mast Setter Loft at Lemuel Priend's Wharf, Vincent Point, Near Sam'l Lane iV Bro's. Tarrinjr Risginjr and Planing Masts done at short notice. Second-hand Hig.nini; and Red Stock of all kinds. Stock furnished if required. Good warranted work and low prices. Box Manufacturer AND BONELESS & PREPARED FISH -A. SrECI-^XiT-H- B-^- ROWE & WONSON. Also, Dealers in and Curers of Dry and Pickled Fish. Every variety of Fish handled in their season. LOCK BOX 140. Walter L. Rowe. Eknest C. Wonson. EAST GLOUCESTER, Mass. XX. O. FXSxi.£jxvi, Commission Merchant in Codfish, Mackerel, Oil, Sec, i2 WATER ST., NEW YORK. B. L. ROWS. ■^■■1 AND DEALER IN Duck and Cordage. Hoth's Best Eussia Hemp Bolt Eope For PURSE LINES; also, BUNTING, FLAGS, and SIGNALS, for sale at 33 WHARF ST., foot of Water. 4®=- TENTS, AWNINGS, WAGON COVERS and WINDOW SHADES made to order. GEO. MERCHANT, Jr., Net & Seine Repairer, SHUTE Si MERCHANT'S WHARF, GLOUCESTER, Mass. Nets, Seines, Twine and Fishinjj Nettiujjfs of every description, furnished to order. Parties wishing Nets and Seines will please give the longest notice possible. Agent for H. E. Willard's Mackarol Pocket. Nets stored in winter vukk ok chauci:. WHOLESALE Fish Dealer, GLOUCESTER, Mass. «e>New York Office, 165 MAIDEN LANE CJLOlJCESTni^, WSS. -)[ 1,'- Washino;ton St. BottliiiQ; Works. JAMES H. JOYCE, Proprietor, 3Q W^ashington Street, Gloucester, Mass. Manufacturer of SODA and MINERAL WATERS, GIN- aER ALE, TONIO BEER, &c. Bottler of ALE, LAGER BEER, CIDER and PORTER. Fishermen's Ballads And SONGS OF THE SEA. A l)c»()k ol' ls-1 ii:ij;cs, contiiiiiiiifi clidicc Hiilhuls and Sen S()()k l)>- llic p-islimnfM llicnisclvcs. It lias tin- r<'al salt watci-ila\()r;ill tlir()Uf;;li, and is just tlic book to liavf on hoard tlir Ncssci or in a ijcrson's poi-kct, to while away tli<' Icisuri' hours. ViTv handsonulv ilhistrati'd. For sale 1»\ the puh- lishcrs. PROCTER BROS., Gloucester, Mass. Mailed anx where on reeeipi of priee. I'dstajre slaiMp> taken. . "'^Tv^IX^E]'^, — DEALEU IN — 142 MAIN ST., GLOUCESTER. The BEST FIVE CEJ^T CIGAR in the City. .6!^ Fishermen and all others will iind this the place to get CHOICE ARTICLES in this line. Come iu and see us. IRA ANDREWS, JR., JOB PRINTER, Tappan Block, - ■ 114 Main St., Gloucester. COlNri>TECTE3D TTT-ITEC TEXj^^'HOliTE. G. W. PLUMER, Ship Broker, &c., Gloucester, Mass. Also in Boston, 214 State St. VESSELS of ail descriptions Bought, Sold and Chartered- 4iS=-FISlI Bought and Sold on Commission. F. T. Hall & Son, 282 Main St., Gloucester. Constantly on hand a full assortment of First- Class Goods at Low Cash Prices. Rubber Boots a Specialty. House Lots on Bellevue Heights. ooJOio* Young men or any one desiring to make a safe investment, cannot do better than to look over the delightfully situated on Bellevue, Beacon, Conant, Blynman and Centennial avenues, anil thus secure good homesteads. Best location, best neighborliood, best water view in the city; within ten minutes walk of the post ofiice, schools, churches, etc. Intervi(!W the subscril)ers, and they will tell you all about them. PROCTER BROTHERS. M. L. f ETHEEELL. Dmilist & Clieiisl, The most Reliable PHARMACIST in Essex Couuty. Emplotjs none but Efficient and Courteous Assistants. All Pharmaceutical Preparations manufactured from the best materials, and in strict accord- ance with the revised Pharmacopoeias, and standard works. Family Medicines and compounding Physicians' Prescriptions a specialty. One of the largest Proprietary Manufacturers in the Unitea States of America. So, if you are desirous of using Projtrietary Medicines, be sure to use none but are put up by, and have the siguatui-e of M. L. Wetherell to the same. Use WETHERELL'S WINE OF CAI.ISAYA BARK to strengthen and tone up the system. Use WETHERELL'S SARSAPARILLA AND IRON to purify and enrich the blood. Use WETHERELL'S BUCHU AND HOPS for all diseases of the kidneys and urinary organs in male or female. Use WETHERELL'S ROSE LOTION for all cutaneous diseases, and all eruptions whatever that require a soothing and pleasant wash. Use WETHERELL'S DANDELION AND MANDRAKE LH'ER PILLS for chronic aflfectious of the liver and bowels, constipation in all its forms, headache, giddiness, dyspepsia, biliousness, &c. Be sure to buy a bottle of these pills, and you will use no other. None genuine unless signed M. L. Wetherell. If you want the genuine BED-BUG POWDER, be sure to procure It at M. L. Wetherell's, 178 Main St., as all other kinds are worthless imitations of the genuine article, which is imported by M. L. Wetherell from Trieste, Austria. Every bottle warranted. Use WETHERELL'S EUREKA LINIMENT fi>r rheumatics, sprains, bruises, lish bone sores, colds, colic pains, or cramps in the ^tnuiach, and lor iiiiigeuts (caused geuerally by the oil jacket chafing the wrist), etc. It is the !^tr()ngest liniment made. Try WETHERELL'S EXTRACT JAMAICA GINGER ROOT, manufactured from the pure Jamaica Ginger Root. It is one-third stronger than any other ginger in the market. It is guaran- teed to contain all the medicinal qualities of that drug in a concentrated form. Be sure that you procure none but M. L. Wetherell's, and take no other. WETHERELL'S EXTRACT OF WITCH HAZEL, or HAMAMELIS, is the people's remedy or balm for every wound. It is a most eflicacious remedy for catarrh or cold in the liead, burns, bruises, piles, sore eyes, all humors of the scalp, and wounds of every description. The best plaster ever offered to the public is WETHERELL'S BUCIHT and HOPS STRENGTH- ENING PLASTER, manufactured by M. L. Wetherell, at 178 Main St. Every plaster is made of the best materials, selected by him, is freshly made, and thus none of the virtues of the ingredi- ents are lost. Every plaster "cQntains the valuable meilicinal qualities of Buchu and Hops, care- fully combined, so that for a lame back, weak liack, jiain in the sics, etc., and as a general strengthen- ing plaster, it has no equal. Use WethereH's Buchu anil Hops Strengthening Plasters, and be convinced they are the best plaster in the market. Use WETHERELL'S TOOTHACHE DROPS. Cure in one minute. Try them. Use WETHERELL'S Pl'RE COD LIVER OIL, with I'lIOSPHATE OF LIME. Use WETHERELL'S COLD-PRESSKD COD LIVEU OIL. This oil is made from fresh, healthy livers, and is guaranteed to be the best in tlie market. Use WETHERELL'S HORSE POWDERS for horse ail, hide bound, heaves, bots, etc. Try WETHERELL'S WINE OF BEEF AND IRON, prepared from fresh beef, iron and sherry wine. It is carefully prepared, and for children, delicate persons, nervous aud fastidious pa- tients, it will be found very estimable. Use WETHEHLLL'.S COMPOUND SYRUP OF HYPOPHOi^PHITES, made from the formula of Dr. Churcliill, of Paris, for the prevention and cure of consumption. Use WETHERELL'S SA1^\ E for gurry sores, salt rheum, burns, ringworms and old sores. Try WETHERKLL'S CHLORATE POTASSA LOZENtJES for Diphtheria, Croup, Coughs, Colds"and Hoarseness. Try WETHERKLL'S ROLL SALVE for corns, cuts, cracked hands and gurry sores. WETHERELL'S FLAXSEED COU(iH SYRUP is the best for coughs, colds on the lung-, bronchitis, hoarseness and spitting of blood. WETHERELL'S NEW WHITE ROSE COLOGNE— superb, fragrant and lasting. As a toilet article it has no superior. Vsv WETHERELL'S CELEBRATED EYE WATER, for the relief of inJlamed and sore eyes. Use WETHERELL'S HOOF OINTMENT for scratches, thrush, quarter cracks, hard and brit tie hoofs. Use WETHERELL'S CO.MPOUND SYRUP OF BLACKRERRY ROOT, a sure cure for chol- era morbus, dysentery, dlarrhiea, colic, (•rami)s, and summer complaints of children. This has been fouml to "he a very benellcial medicine. A large stock constanlly on hand. Try WETHERELL'S CA.MPHORATED SAPONACEOUS DENTRIFICE for beautifying tlie teeth and <'leatiilug the gums. It is a very pleasant dentritlce, entirely harmless to the teeth, in- stantly rendering them pearl white and glassy smooth. HK195-78 '4 ^ ^i»^ i^ \^-^iZlf^.* u- ^.►^^ • 2^- o o 'oV ' ^, ^^-•^. ,Hq. c- o V ^°-n^. W$^!^ 0^"^ ^^ •.S' ^b \ .'b" ^:c. ^'-^y ^i^ 'o '>^-vi^ "^^^X^v:^ .0- V 0^ r' ' ' r. 0* ■ ^ . r '^** /,....<'* ^ ^^^(l^pr* ^' o '7-' -•^9. \* . • • o. *^> /. -•'-^<,'''' *- 0^ .v^. ^^ W:S ^v^' "''^. ^^^^^^ y -^ . ■• j^ .V ^. ^/ v>^ , \ - - - , > - •■p. ^^ , 7> -^^0^ .-?> * " < o " - " . >t^ LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 0 014 078 471 0 ' * f