As February 1836 drew to a close two of the three South Australian Company ships, the John Pirie and the Duke of York, left Gravesend at the mouth of the Thames and began their careful navigation of the English Channel towards the Atlantic Ocean. Poor Captain Morgan continued to be very anxious about his wife, who was due […]
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Week 03 – Waiting on the wind
One week after the storm the Duke of York was still at the Isle of Wight, held there by ‘adverse winds’. Captain Morgan made use of the time to repair the ship and replenish his stores, providing fresh meat for both passengers and crew while he had the chance, but his passengers fretted at the delay. He […]
Week 04 – A fair wind
The middle of March found both the John Pirie and the Duke of York still anchored close to shore in the English Channel, as strong adverse winds and torrential rain delayed their departure still further. But by 19 March the winds had swung around and Captain Morgan prepared his ship once more for sea. His duty called, […]
Week 06 – a ‘perfect Hurricane’
On 26 March the John Pirie seemed to be making progress, as it finally cleared the English Channel and struck out for the Atlantic Ocean. But just west of the Bay of Biscay the weather worsened…
Week 07 – aftermath of the storm
After six weeks of bad weather and no progress, all of the travelers were unhappy. The passengers on the John Pirie were still suffering the after effects of the terrifying storm, (one left…
Week 12 – Crossing the line
As the Duke of York nears the Equator the crew hopes to have a bit of fun. Crossing the Line ceremonies were common on sailing vessels and often involved ‘King Neptune’ coming on board to ‘baptise’…
Week 19 – farewells and new beginnings
This week sees the unhappy passengers and crew of the Cygnet still anchored in Rio Harbour. While Boyle Travers Finniss chafes under continuing delays, the crew mutinies, refusing all work. …
Week 20 – infectious disease
The Duke of York is now in the Southern Ocean, making good progress. It is Captain Morgan’s wife’s birthday and he reflects endearingly on his love for her and his happiness in the married state….
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