On board a vessel in the 19th century a sailor had to be able and wanting to endure abhorrent conditions. They typically lived in thin and tiny quarters where they combated monotony and tedium. Their food usually laced with worms and other vile vermin; they also had to fight off extreme elements. It was not uncommon for seamen to climb 50 to 100 feet above deck in frigid cold where a gust of wind might throw them to their death below. But... if you made it past this test you could very well advance up the ladder to ship captain or even ship owner.
In Salem: Maritime Salem in the Age of Sail the reader gets an in-depth overview of life in the leading seaport of the 19th century. The book relates the story of the men who created and made their fortune during Salem's oceanic dominance. Men such as Richard Darby, George Crowinshields, Elias Hasket, etc. relate their tale of shipbuilding, life and politics in maritime Salem. In their stories we find the ordinary sailors conducting themselves and their lives. We further get an inside tour as the reader boards the sailing ship that ventures to the far reaches of the imagination.
The book, published by the National Park Service is a great introduction to Salem's golden age at sea. It provides a list of attractions opened to the public–including the Peabody Essex Museum, located at 161 Essex Street. Here a visitor can see artifacts and exhibits from the golden age at sea.
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As a visitor travels through this part of Salem, MA history you see the town is not all about the witch hysteria. Salem is a historical gem; whatever your interests are–whether it’s the maritime or the witch hysteria, stop by this charming port and let this town casts its magic upon you.
