Captain Richard (Dick) Farrell (1897 -1993)
Third Passage of Barque ‘Killoran’
Wheat laden bound from Wallaroo, South Australia to Hampton Roads, Virginia U.S.A. for orders
Wednesday 17th July 1919
Our two men came aboard today with the Captain, we are all ready for sea, but we are waiting for wind it being dead calm. At 7 p.m. a light breeze sprang up and the Captain decided to get under way. The breeze was right off the land being E.S.E. We hove short the topsails and foresail, squared the main yards, the foreyards, boxing her off, thereby making a sternboard. When the wind came aft we squared away on the foreyards, and kept the wind aft until about two miles off Tipara Reef Light, we then kept her up four points bringing the wind on the port quarter. We set the t’gallants, royals, and fore and afters just off the reef. Doing about four knots.
Thursday 18th July
Very light airs all day and very unsteady, Warding Island Light bearing S.E. by S. We have only done about five miles all day.
Friday 19th July
The wind is still very light the current is setting her towards Wedge Island again but a light breeze sprung up for an hour or so getting her clear of it. Position by coast bearing, Wedge Island E.W. ½ N. Althrope Island E. ¾ S. Spencer Point E. by N. Lat. 35 degrees 19’ S. Long. 136 degs. 36’ E.
Saturday 20th July
Light breeze springing up, gentle swell. Passed mail steamer bound for Adelaide with no lights showing. Cape Borda Light abeam 4 a.m. Streamed Patent Log 46 Cape Couedie bearing E. ¼ N. Distance 10 miles. I think the girls in Walleroo have let go of her at last.
NOTE – When a sailing ship left port very often baffling winds were encountered off a lee shore and when a fresh fair wind sprung up allowing the ship to get under way the phrase that ‘the girls had let go of her at last’ was the one that sailors used.
Sunday 21st July
Wind freshening a little and backing to S.E. Cape Couedie Light dipping 10:15 p.m. bearing N. ¼ W. Moderate seas and clear weather. Position by observation, Lat. 37 degs. 49’ S. Long. 137 degs. 40’ E. Course S. 30 degs. E. Distance 84 miles.
Monday 22nd July
Took the anchors aboard in the mates watch. I put the cables in the locker. Passed a steamer heading North. Breeze and sea moderate, fine clear weather. We are getting a fine slant down so far, the weather is getting colder already. Position; Lat. 40 degs. 08’ S. Long. 139 degs. 23’ E. Course; S. 30 degs. E. Distance 160 miles.
Tuesday 23rd July
Fresh breeze rough sea, but she is not shipping any water yet, we are clearing the windlass gear and doing all the odd jobs aloft before we get into the real cold weather. The wind which has been on the port beam has hauled aft, we unfurled the fore and afters, heavy rain fell for two hours. Position; Lat. 42 degs. 16’ S. Long. 140 degs. 43’ E. Course; S. 25 degs. E. Distance 142 miles.
Wednesday 24th July
Light breeze all day, heavy S.W. swell, the weather has cleared again, the wind has hauled to S.S.E. Wore ship at 11 p.m. Position; Lat. 42 degs. 28’ S. Long. 141 degs. 00’E. Course S. 46 degs. E. Distance 18 miles.
Thursday 25th July
Light airs, dull weather with a big swell running. Crew are employed in making gaskets and two new fore t’mast staysail sheet pennants. Position; Lat. 42 degs. 38’ S. Long. 141 degs. 17’ E. Course; S. 56 degs. E. Distance 35 miles.
Friday 26th July
Light breeze, freshening now and again for a short while, big swell making ship roll heavily. Very heavy dew at night, wind is about W.S.W. and we are braced up on the starboard tack. Position; Lat. 43 degs. 37’ S. Long. 142 degs. 38’ E. Course S. 52 degs. E. Distance 77 miles.
Saturday 27th July
Wind is very unsteady in force, the sky is cloudy but the horizon is clear. Washed ship down today and washed clothes. Position; Lat. 44 degs. 11’ S. Long. 143 degs. 44’ E. Course; S. 54 degs. E. Distance 58 miles.
Sunday 28th July
(Lime juice day). Pretty fine day, cold but dry. Wind has freshened a little and gone back to W.S.W. Checked in the yards a bit. No work doing today. Position; Lat. 45 degs. 08’ S. Long. 144 degs. 43’ E. Course; S. 50 degs. E. Distance 85 miles.
Monday 29th July
Kept ship off to E. by S. as we are clear of Tasmania and are setting a course to pass between the Snares and South Auckland. Squared the yards in, rove off a new port main inner buntline and new main t’mast staysail downhaul. There is a little more wind today and rough sea. Position; Lat. 45 degs. 44’ S. Long. 148 degs. 4 ½ E. Course; S. 74 degs. E. Distance 148 miles.
Tuesday 30th July
Wind is freshening gradually, high sea running. We furled the fore royal and upper t’gallants as the wind is nearly aft and they are not drawing. She is shipping large quantities of agua today. Watch employed in making gaskets etc. Position; Lat. 46 degs. 48’ S. Long. 152 degs. 18’ E. Course S. 70 degs. E. Distance 188 miles.
Wednesday 31st July
Strong breeze, tremendous sea running, shipping some very heavy water, one sea came in by the fore rigging smashing the fora’d boat to bits, galley skylight and cooks door also forecastle headladders. She is making ten knots with upper t’gallants on her. Position; Lat. 48 degs. 12’ S. Long. 157 degs. 22’ E. Course S. 68 degs. E. Distance 220 miles.
Thursday 1st August
Wind freshening a little, furled the upper t’gallants, the wind is on the starboard quarter. Very high sea running, decks flooded all day. We goosewinged the fore sail as there is a seam gone in the starboard side. Position; Lat. 49 degs. 21’ S. Long. 161 degs. 20’ E. Course; S. 71 degs E. Distance 187 miles.
Friday 2nd August
Strong gusty breeze, tremendous sea running, full of water all the time. We repaired the foresail today. Towards evening the wind freshened to a hard gale, which raised a mountainous sea, fore topsail split taking it in, we also furled the main upper topsail and ran her under two lower topsails and goose winged foresail. There was very heavy hail too making it as cold as hell. We passed the ‘Snares’ today. Barometer 29.18 Position; Lat. 48 degs. 24’ S. Long. 166 degs. 55’ E. Course; E. ¾ S. Distance 198 miles.
Saturday 3rd August
Squalls decreasing in force, tremendous sea running deck absolutely full of water all the time. Towards night, wind and sea eased down. The weather is very dull and cold now. Barometer 29.24 Position; Lat. 48 degs. 24’ S. Long. 17 degs. 31’ E. Course East Distance 145 miles.
Sunday 4th August
Strong hail squalls again today. Barometer falling again to 29.16 the sea has gone down a lot. We repaired the roping on the leach of the foresail today. Barometer 29.29 Position; Lat. 48 degs. 16’ S. Long. 174 degs. 28’ E. Course; N. 87 degs. E. Distance 152 miles.
Monday 5th August
Strong breeze all day with a very heavy sea running, completely filling her decks all the time. Wind has backed to the north west, there are occasional showers of sleet and hail. Barometer rose to 29.45 but fell again to 29.23 Position; Lat. 47 degs. 54’ S. Long. 177 degs. 55’ E. Course N. 76 degs. E. Distance 142 miles.
Tuesday 6th August
Wind freshened to a hard gale again, very nasty cross sea, vessel straining and pitching heavily, she is like a submarine today. We passed Bounty Island today about 15 miles to windward. Wind eased down towards morning to a fresh breeze. Barometer 29.42 Position; Lat. 46 degs. 53’ S. Long. ¾ 178 degs. 39’ E. Course N. 67 degs. E. Distance 153 miles.
Wednesday 7th August
Moderate breeze, heavy swell, ship rolling heavily flooding decks with water, bent a new fore upper topsail, spliced the fore sheet and tops’l braces. Barometer 29.34 inches. Position; Lat. 46 degs. 52’ S. Long. 179 degs. 42’ W. Course N. 89 degs. E. Distance 80 miles.
Thursday 8th August
Set min topsail and lower t’gallant sail also fore topsail, fore and main t’mast staysails and mizzen staysail as the wind has hauled to the S.E. it has been raining all day, but it is not so cold as yesterday. Position; Lat. 46 degs. 22’ S. Long. 174 degs. 46’ W. Course; N. 77 degs. E. Distance 151 miles.
Thursday 8th August
As we crossed the Meridian today this day is again Thursday. Wind has increased to a strong breeze, high sea running. Barometer 29.26 inches. Position; is Lat. 45 degs. 43’ S. Long. 171 degs. 01’ W. Course; N. 77 degs. E. Distance 148 miles.
Friday 9th August
Strong breeze blowing but it died down to a light breeze before morning, all sail is set with the yards just off the backstays. This is a nice fine day, not so cold as yesterday. Barometer 29.4 Position; Lat. 45 degs. 29’ S. Long. 168 degs. 39’ W. Course; N. 81 degs. E. Distance 109 miles.
Saturday 10th August
Light winds very unsteady in force and direction, very fine day with smooth water. Barometer 29.59 Position; Lat. 45 degs. 30’ S. Long. 166 degs. 22’W. Course East. Distance 89 miles.
Sunday 11th August
Light Westerly breeze, springing up with a S. Westerly swell, repaired fore and main upper topsail sheets and foresail. Barometer 29.63 inches. Position; Lat. 45 degs. 56’ S. Long. 164 degs. 46’ W. Course S. 69 degs. E. Distance 73 miles.
Monday 12th August
Moderate Westerly breeze and sea all sail set, watch employed in making gaskets and paunch mats. Towards evening the wind freshened a little. Barometer 29.60 Position; Lat. 47 degs. 09’ S. Long 161 degs. 33’ W. Course; S. 61 degs. E. Distance 153 miles
Tuesday 13th August
Good strong steady breeze, main royal set, wind about a point abaft the port beam, set inner jib. The Captain is laid up today. There is a high sea and the sky is overcast. Barometer 29.74 Position; Lat. 48 degs. 26’ S. Long. 156 degs. 21 ½ ‘W. Course S. 68 degs. E. Distance 225 miles.
Wednesday 14th August
Strong breeze, heavy sea running furled the main royal and upper t’gallants. Wind freshened to a half a gale, furled the two lower t’gallant sails. Towards morning a strong gale was blowing but we hung on to the topsails. Barometer 29.81 Position; Lat. 49 degs. 50’ S. Long. 151 degs. 45 ½ ‘W. Course; S. 65 degs. E. Distance 199 miles.
Thursday 15th August
Hard gale blowing, heavy sea, shipping a great deal of water, smashed in the carpenter’s door and washed the tarpaulins off the weather side of the main hatch in my watch, we secured the hatch and rigged up a temporary door of 3” planks. We furled fore and main upper topsails and goose winged the foresail. Barometer 29.40 inches, falling. Position; Lat. 51 degs. 32’ S. Long. 147 degs. 43’ W. Course S. 63 degs. E. Distance 172 miles.
Friday 16th August
Wind and sea has moderated, fresh breeze blowing, set everything to upper t’gallants. Wind is backing to the N.W. Set foresail full. Heavy seas coming aboard. Barometer 29.52 inches. Position; Lat. 51 degs. 37’ S. Long. 144 degs. 41’ W. Course S. 88 degs. E. Distance 132 miles.
Saturday 17th August
Wind and sea increasing again, reefed foresail and set it. Ship labouring heavily and shipping very heavy water. Barometer. 29.90 rising. Position; Lat. 51 degs. 46’ S. Long. 141 degs. 06’ W. Course; S. 85 degs. E. Distance 116 miles.
Sunday 18th August
Light breeze, rough sea, wind is backing to N.E. Set all fore and aft sail and repaired a seam in the foresail, weather overcast and misty. Barometer 30.03 inches. Position; Lat. 52 degs. 06’ S. Long. 138 degs. 33’ W. Course S. 79 degs. E. Distance 96 miles.
Monday 19th August
Moderate breeze, thick misty weather, heavy Northerly swell. Wind freshened towards night to a strong breeze. Ship braced up on port tack. Barometer, 29.76. Position; Lat. 54 degs. 14 ‘S. Long. 132 degs. 05’ W. Distance 184 miles. Course; S. 63 degs. E.
Tuesday 20th August
Strong gusty breeze, high head sea, set mainsail today and furled upper t’gallants as they were doing no good. We unbent fore and main royals, to repair them, very cold weather. Barometer 29.84 Position; Lat. 54 degs. 35’ S. Long. 128 degs. 31’ W. Course; S. 80 degs. E. Distance 126 miles.
Wednesday 21st August
Fresh steady breeze all day, rough sea and passing showers. Watch employed these days in making paunch mats for the foot of the t’gallant masts, bunt gaskets and sennit. Barometer 29. 96 inches. Position; Lat. 54 degs. 47 ‘ S. Long. 125 degs. 01’ W. Course; S. 84 degs. E. Distance 121 miles.
Thursday 22nd August
Wind just the same today the weather is cold but very fine for down in these latitudes. Some work going on. Positon; Lat. 54 degs. 02’ S. Long. 119 degs. 54’ W. Course; S. 84 degs. E. Distance 144 miles.
Friday 23rd August
Strong breeze, inclined to haul aft, checked yards in off the backstays. Dull weather today and showery. High sea running. Barometer 29.76 Position; Lat. 53 degs. 56’ S. Long. 113 degs. 52. ‘W. Course N. 88 degs. E. Distance 214 miles.
Saturday 24th August
Good strong breeze, rough sea, wind has hauled about a point to the westward. Shipping an occasional sea, very cold weather. Barometer 29.74 inches. Noon. Position; Lat. 53 degs. 54’ S. Long. 108 degs. 01’ W. Course E. Distance 204 miles.
Sunday 25th August
Wind and sea just the same, kept ship off a half point. The wind is hauling aft all the time. Towards morning wind decreased to a light breeze. Barometer 29.50 inches, at noon. Position; Lat. 54 degs. 16’ S. Long. 103 degs. 13’ W. Course S. 85 degs. E. Distance 171 miles.
Monday 26th August
Moderate to light breeze all day, wind right aft and later on came out on starboard beam, fine clear cold weather, one or two showers of snow. Barometer, 29.80” Position; Lat. 54 degs. 07’ S. Long. 99 degs. 34 ½ W. Course; S. 85 degs. E. Distance 124 miles
Tuesday 27th August
Light breeze, clear cold weather, bent main royal and set it also re-bent main upper topsail and rove new spanker foot outhaul. Watch making paunch mats, bent gaskets etc. Wind back to the westward. Barometer 29.99’ Position Lat. 54 degs. 39’ S. Long. 96 degs. 09’ W. Course S. 75 degs. E. Distance 126 miles.
Wednesday 28th August
Fresh increasing breeze, all plain sail set. Towards morning a strong breeze was blowing. Put out our patent log again. Barometer. 29.89 inches. Position; Lat. 55 degs. 46’ S. Long. 92 degs. 00’W. Course; S. 64 degs. E. Distance 166 miles.
Thursday 29th August
Strong breeze increasing gradually furled mainsail two royals, two upper t’gallants and spanker, heavy snow squalls, cold as hell, very heavy south westerly sea running. We are getting into the Cape Horn sea now. Barometer 29.97” Position; 56 degs. 05’ S. Long. 87 degs. 45’ W. Course S. 74 degs. E. Distance 125 miles.
Friday 30th August
Strong breeze, towards morning it increased to a moderate gale, furled fore and main lower t’gallants and fore upper topsail. Tremendous sea running, sky heavily overcast and looking very bad. Barometer falling fast, 29.30” at noon. Position; Lat. 57 degs. 08’ S. Long. 81 degs. 26’ W. Course S. 64 degs. E. Distance 219 miles.
Saturday 31st August
Wind and sea just the same, shipping very heavy seas being full up fore and aft all the time and it is very cold too. Weather moderated towards morning. Barometer 29.45 inches. Position; Lat. 57 degs. 27’ S. Long. 75 degs. 46’ W. Course; S. 84 degs. E. Distance 186 miles.
Sunday 1st September
Wind freshened to a strong breeze which carried away the starboard main upper topsail sheet but the preventer held it, we lashed the clew to the lower yardarm, tremendous sea running, deck full of water. Set fore and main upper t’gallants but furled them again. Barometer 29.38” Position; Lat. 57 degs. 57 ‘S Long. 70 degs. 31’ W. Course S. 81 degs. E. Distance 174 miles.
Monday 2nd September
Moderate to light breeze, unbent main upper topsail as the main t’mst stay had cut clean through it, we are repairing same also the sheet, it is a brand new sail. Wind has hauled to S.W. and commenced to snow hard, and turned colder. Barometer 29.95” Position; Lat. 56 degs. 57’ S. Long. 66 degs. 50’ W. Course N. 70 degs. E. Distance 124 miles.
Tuesday 3rd September
Fresh breeze, clear weather but very cold, we are just off Cape Horn now, it is very fine weather for down here, we unbent and bent a new foresail and main upper topsail, several showers of snow today. Set lower t’gallants. Barometer 30.22” Position; Lat. 56 degs. 16’ S. Long. 65 degs. 36’ W. Course N. 43 degs. E. Distance 58 miles.
Wednesday 4th September
Light breeze, snow showers, bent another mainsail, set upper t’gallants, wind is about S.S.E. just now, the sea is quite smooth hardly any swell, her decks are dry for the first time since leaving Australia. Barometer 30.18” Position; Lat. 55 degs. 31’ S. Long 64 degs. 12’ W Course N. 54 degs. E. Distance 69 miles.
Thursday 5th September
Light airs and calms all day, wind has hauled right round to N.N.W. but it is very light, fine clear cold weather, smooth water. Staten Island is visible on the port beam distance about 30 miles. Position; Lat. 54 degs. 52’ S. Long. 62 degs. 03’ W. Course; N. 62 degs. E. Distance 84 miles.
Friday 6th September
Wind has freshened a little, weather has become dull, not so cold as yesterday. Furled upper t’gallants and main royal. Barometer 30.02” Positon; Lat. 54 degs. 54’ S. Long. 60 degs. 23’ W. Course; S. 89 degs. E. Distance 57 miles.
Saturday 7th September
Wind is now dead ahead, so we furled lower t’gallants drizzly rain all day and pretty cold too, towards morning she came up to her course again, so we set the t’gallants and mainsail, rough head sea, light breeze. Barometer 29.91” Position; Lat. 55 degs. 04’ S. Long. 58 degs. 34’ W. Course S. 81 degs. E. Distance 63 miles.
Sunday 8th September
She is barely going her course today, raining off and on all day. Not much wind or sea. Towards morning a light southerly breeze sprang up. Barometer 29.60 Position; Lat. 54 degs. 45’ S. Long 57 degs. 17’ W. Course; N. 67 degs. E. Distance 48 miles.
Monday 9th September
Fresh breeze on starboard quarter, set main royal, sea is getting up fast, however the wind fell light again before morning backing to N.W. again, sky is heavily and weather is very cold, coming as it does from the ice and snow topped mountains of the Falkland Islands. Barometer 30.01” Position; Lat. 53 degs. 46’ S. Long. 55 degs. 41’W. Course; N. 44 degs. E. Distance 82 miles.
Tuesday 10th September
Light north westerly breeze, smooth sea, intensely cold weather, all sail set, braced up on port tack. Watch employed in making bunt gaskets and mats. Weather turning misty. Barometer 29.98” Position; Lat. 52 degs. 53’S. Long. 51 degs. 15’ W. Course; N. 47 degs. E. Distance 111 miles.
Wednesday 11th September
Wind has hauled to the S.W. light breeze, dull weather turning misty and backing to the N.W. again before morning, watch employed in scrubbing decks etc. very cold damp weather. We are just abreast of the Falkland Islands today. Barometer 30.10” Position; Lat. 51 degs. 16’S. Long. 49 degs. 23’ W. Course; N. 38 degs. E. Distance 98 miles.
Thursday 12th September
Very thick weather, lookout being kept all day for ice, moderate breeze and sea, very cold. Towards morning the fog cleared away leaving an overcast sky, watch employed making sennit and paunch mats for the rigging. Lat. 48 degs. 52’ S. Long. 47 degs. 03’ W. Course; N. 33 degs. E. Distance 170 miles.
Friday 13th September
Moderate breeze, clear fine weather. We bent and set fore royal today, all sail on her. We sighted a full rigged 3 masted ship today steering more to the eastward than us, lost sight of her before night. Barometer 29.77” Positon; Lat. 46 degs. 44’ S. Long. 44 degs. 55’ W. Course; N. 34 degs. E. Distance 155 miles.
Saturday 14th September
Breeze freshening gradually from the eastward, furled mainsail, in the middle watch, (12 p.m. to 4 a.m.) the mate furled the royals and upper t’gallants. In the morning watch the wind increased some more, we furled the lower t’gallants inner and outer jibs and spanker, by 6 a.m. it was blowing a whole gale of wind, so we furled the two upper topsails and at 8 a.m. all hands furled the foresail, there was a tremendous sea running and it was raining heavily all the watch, wetting us all through, the mizzen staysail blew to ribbons at 7 a.m. Barometer 29.03” Lat. 45 degs. 51’S. Long. 33 degs. 49’ W. Course; N. 5 degs. E. Distance; 53 miles.
Sunday 15th September
Terrific squalls, mountainous seas, decks full of water, she has been hove to under lower topsails all night. Towards morning wind and sea moderated to a moderate breeze, so we set upper top gallants again also two royals after keeping the ship off to her course N.N.E. Barometer 29.03” Positon; Lat. 45 degs. 00’S. Long. 43 degs. 14’W. Course; N. 34 degs. E. Distance 180 miles.
Monday 16th September
Gently breeze, wind right aft, bent another mizzen staysail. Bent and set the gaff topsail, wind freshened a little in the middle watch, fine clear weather a bit cold yet. Barometer 29.52” rising. Position; Lat. 42 degs. 20’ S. Long. 41 degs. 37’ W. Course; N. 29 degs. E. Distance 115 miles.
Tuesday 17th September
Moderate breeze, falling light towards morning. All square sails set, wind hauled round to S.E. at 3 a.m. braced her up on starboard tack and set fore and afters. Watch employed in repairing gear around the decks. Barometer 29.97” Position; Lat. 42 degs. 35’S. Long. 41 degs. 18’ W Course N. 32 degs. E. Distance 53 miles.
Wednesday 18th September
Light breeze, bent and set main middle and mizzen t’mast staysails. Wind is inclined to haul a little. The weather is fine and clear today and there is a distinct change in the temperature. Barometer 30.22” Positon; Lat. 41 degs. 38’S. Long. 41 degs. 56’ W. Course; N. 26 degs. W. Distance 64 miles.
Thursday 19th September
Moderate to fresh breeze, bent and set the flying jib, but afterwards furled all light fore and afters and royals. At 10 a.m. we furled the upper t’gallants. Barometer 29.32” Position; Lat. 41 degs. 05’ S. Long. 41 degs. 23’ W. Course; N. 37 degs. E. Distance 41 miles.
Friday 20th September
We have had a head wind now for the past four days. Tacked ship to eastward today. Commenced sand and canvassing teak work on the poop today. Dull weather, fresh breeze. Position; Lat. 40 degs. 25’ S. Long. 39 degs. 05’ W. Course; N. 66 degs. E. Barometer 30.18” Distance 115 miles.
Saturday 21st September
Strong increasing breeze, height head sea, a moderate gale was blowing by 12 p.m. with heavy squalls, furled mainsail, fore and main t’gallants and upper topsail outer and inner jib, spanker and mizzen staysail. Heavy rain all night, also lightning. Towards morning wind fell light again. Barometer 29.78 inches. Position; Lat. 39 degs. 55’ S. Long. 37 degs. 36’W. Course; N. 66 degs. E. Distance 84 miles.
Sunday 22nd September
Moderate breeze, wind hauled to the southward at noon. Set fore and main upper topsails and main lower t’gallants also mizzen staysail. Wind freshening towards evening, rain clearing away about 5 p.m. Set fore lower and main upper t’gallants. Barometer 29.67 inches. Position; Lat. 37 degs. 29’ S. Long 37 degs. 10’ W. Course N. 8 degs. E. Distance 147 miles.
Monday 23rd September
Fresh breeze blowing, set main royal fore and afters and mainsail, wind is hauling to the to the Norra’d all the time, dull overcast sky watch employed sand and canvassing teak work on the bridge. Barometer 30.20 inches. Position; Lat. 34 degs. 50’ S. Long. 36 degs. 46’ W. Course; N. 7 degs. E. Distance 161 miles.
Tuesday 24th September
Wind has freshened to a moderate gale and has hauled ahead again furled fore and main upper and lower t’gallants. Mainsail jibs and stay sails, high sea running, at 6 p.m. we wore ship to E.S.E. Very heavy rain nearly all day. Wind moderated to a fresh breeze by morning when we set the mainsail and heavy fore and afters again. Barometer 29.70 inches. Position; Lat. 34 degs. 39’ S. Long. 36 degs. 30’ W. Course; N. 50 degs. E. Distance 18 miles.
Wednesday 25th September
Rain has ceased today, misty weather, set upper t’gallant sails and main royal also all light fore and aft sails. Wind has hauled to the westward and she is going her course. The weather is fine and warm now. We are busy now cleaning teak work and paintwork, preparatory to painting ship. Barometer 29.90” Position; Lat. 32 degs. 44’ S. Long. 36 degs. 37’ W. Course; N. 37 degs. E. Distance; 105 miles.
Thursday 26th September
Gentle breeze, fine clear weather, rough sea, wind hauling to S.W. We unbent fore-royal and bent another. Sand and canvassing teak work. Lat. 31 degs. 22’ S. Long. 36 degs. 25’ W. Course; N. 27 degs. E. Distance 86 miles.
Friday 27th September
Wind falling very light and unsteady, fine warm weather but dull, same work going on, set fore and aft sails. Lat. 30 degs. 81’ S. Long. 36 degs. 2’ W. Course; N. 20 degs. E. Distance 55 miles.
Saturday 28th September
Wind has hauled ahead again, tacked ship to S.E. Washed down decks today. Weather turning misty and wind freshening, furled royals, flying jib, gaff topsail and small stay sails. Barometer 29.92” Lat. 30 degs. 41’ S. Long. 35 degs. 33’ W. Course; S. 80 degs. E. Distance 26 miles.
Sunday 29th September
Furled upper t’gallants as they are doing no good, wind is dead ahead N.N.E. Strong breeze, rough head sea, drizzly rain all day. Barometer 29.90” Lat. 30 degs. 00’ S. Long. 33 degs. 56’ W. Course; N. 64 degs. E. Distance 93 miles.
Monday 30th September
Fresh breeze continual rain all day, scrubbed the poop deck all over. The wind is hauling she is just a half a point off her course. Wind is hauling aft all the time. Set upper t’gallants and main royal also mizzen t’mast and main middle stay sails. Barometer 30.05’ Lat. 28 degs. 57’ S. Long. 32 degs. 50 ‘ W. Course; N. 43 degs. E. Distance 85 miles.
Tuesday 1st October
Moderate breeze and sea, just heading course, close hauled on starboard tack. Bent and set gaff topsails, dull weather. Watch employed in scrubbing teak work, paintwork etc. Lat. 27 degs. 53’ S. Long. 31 degs. set gaff topsails, dull weather.
Wednesday 2nd October
Moderate breeze, wind inclined to haul to the North East. Tacked ship at noon, but missed stays, so we wore her round. Sand and canvassing fore and main fife rails and foc’sle head teak work. All our teak work is finished now. Fine warm weather. Lat. 26 degs. 22’ S. Long. 36 degs. 17’ W. Course; N. Distance 103 miles.
Thursday 3rd October
Fine clear warm weather, light breeze, wind is still ahead, close hauled on port tack. Washing paint work on the bulwark forea’d. She is looking a bit cleaner than she was. Lat. 26 degs. 52’ S. Long. 30 degs. 19’W. Course; S. 79 degs. E. Distance 73 miles.
Friday 4th October
Light breeze, clear weather, sighted a three masted, double t’gallant bald headed barque coming up astern, standing a point or so freer than we are. We are still washing paint work on the main deck, houses, ventilators etc. The three-masted full rigged ship passed across our bow, outward bound, probably for the Colonies. Lat. 26 degs. 57’ S. Long. 29 degs. 18’ W. Course; S. 84 degs. E. Distance 55 miles.
Saturday 5th October
Gentle breeze, wind is beginning to haul a little. Fine clear weather and quite warm. All sail set except the gaff topsail, washed down decks today. Lat. 26 degs. 41’ S. Long. 27 degs. 35’ W. Course; N. 88 degs. E. Distance 136 miles.
Sunday 6th October
This is really the first fine weekend this passage. We saw the first of the flying fish today there are no more albatrosses or mollyhawks now. Fine steady moderate breeze, ship is coming up all the time. Got my hair cut today. Barometer 30.30” Lat. 26 degs. 34’ S. Long. 26 degs. 21’ W. Course; N. 45 degs. E. Distance 94 miles.
Monday 7th October
Wind inclined to haul to westward but there is little if any wind. Shifted fore and main lower t’gallants jibs and spanker. At 11 p.m. a gentle breeze sprang up from the South West, sky overcast. Lat. 24 degs. 24’ S. Long. 26 degs. 01’ W. Course; N. 16 degs. E. Distance 73 miles.
Tuesday 8th October
Very little wind, very fine and warm, shifted fore and main, upper and lower topsails. All the paint work is washed now except the half rounds around poop and foc’sle head. Wind has hauled to N. E. by N. Lat. 28 degs. 58’ S. Long. 25 degs. 52’ W. Course; N. 20 degs. E. Distance; 28 miles.
Wednesday 9th October
Tacked ship to N.E. by E. wind hauling all the time. Finished all paintwork and commenced to overhaul the service on rigging, tatlines etc. preparatory to blacking down. Very fine weather. Lat. 22 degs. 49’ S. Long. 25 degs. 39’ W. Course; N. 20 degs. E. Distance 73 miles.
Thursday 10th October
Watch employed on rigging work and a couple hands touching up rust spots with red lead. We mixed two cwt. Of mast colour and a cask of tar. Lat. 21 degs. 21’ S. Long. 25 degs. 23’ W. Course; N. 9 degs. E. Distance 89 miles.
Friday 11th October
Fine clear weather, big south westerly swell, light breeze all day, wind backing to N.E. We wore ship to N.W. at 10 a.m. watch working on rigging. Latitude by star ‘Aldebarn’ 21 degs. 12’ S. at 3:12 a.m. Lat. At noon 21 degs. 06’ S. Long. 23 degs. 36’W. Course; N. 81 degs. E. Distance 100 miles.
Saturday 12th October
Weather same, gentle breeze full sail set, washed down decks. Latitude by star ‘Alpherat’ 20 degs. 59’ S. Lat. At noon. 21 degs. 54’ S. Long. 24 degs. 20’ W. Course; N. 74 degs. E. Distance 43 miles.
Sunday 13th October
Light variable airs, wore ship to eastward. At 10 pm. a light North Easterly breeze sprang up, hauled yards around. Very warm weather. Lat. 20 degs. 15’ S. Long. 24 degs. 41’W. Course; N. 66 degs. E. Distance; 9 miles
Monday 14th October
Sent all topsail braces down, painted the blocks and oiled the runners, finished all service on mizzen rigging. Saw five dolphins around but could not catch any. A current set ship S.W. (True) 16 miles. Lat. 19 degs. 44’ S. Long. 24 degs. 43’ W. Course; N. 3 degs. W. Distance 66 miles.
Tuesday 15th October
Wind unsteady in force and direction, heavy rain showers at intervals, we are just about the edge of the S.E. trade winds. We set up and leathered the nips off the main middle, t’gallant and royal stays. Lat. 17 degs. 44’ S. Long. 24 degs. 32’ W. Course; N. Distance 120 miles.
Wednesday 16th October
Moderate breeze about S.E. by S. and steady fine clear weather with a few small showers. Painting white on break of poop and getting ready up aloft. Wind freshening to a strong breeze by midnight. We have got into the Trades properly now, they are good and strong too. Lat. 15 degs. 34’ S. Long. 24 degs. 09’ W. Course; N. 14 degs. W. Distance 134 miles.
Thursday 17th October
Good fresh breeze, mizzen t’mast staysail carried away also starboard mizzen t’mast, back stay, put a tackle on same. We commenced tarring down the rigging today, each watch its own mast. Lat. 13 degs. 05’ S. Long. 25 degs. 31’ W. Course; N. 4 degs. W. Distance 150 miles.
Friday 18th October
Finished tarring down today, three masts and boom. Fresh breeze blowing, foot of spanker carried away, sailmaker repaired same with a stopper. Dull weather. Lat. 10 degs.36’ S. Long. 25 degs. 54’ W. Course; N. 8 degs. W. Distance 149 miles.
Saturday 19th October
Fresh breeze, fine clear weather, shoals of flying fish around. We washed down decks, also cleaned tar marks off the yards. All sail set. Lat. 8 degs. 1’ S. Long. 26 degs. 12’ W. Course. N. 13 degs. W. Distance 180 miles.
Sunday 20th October
Very fine day, but not so much wind today turning showery towards evening, kept ship off one point, very warm. All sail set. Lat. 6 degs. 00’S. Long. 26 degs. 58’ W. Course; N. 15 degs. W. Distance 125 miles.
Monday 21st October
Fine clear weather, fresh breeze. Sighted a four masted schooner astern heading about East, evidently bound for Cape Verde Islands or Africa. We started painting mast and yards today, each watch its’ own mast, we got down to the lower topsail yards. Lat. 3 degs. 56’ S. Long. 27 degs. 59’ W. Course; N. 26 degs. W. Distance 138 miles.
Tuesday 22nd October
Finished all the mainmast, half mizzen t’mast, all mizzen lower mast and gaff. Everything set, there is a moderate breeze blowing, smooth sea. Lat. 2 degs. 00’ S. Long. 28 degs. 46’ W. Course; N. 22 degs. W. Distance 125 miles.
Wednesday 23rd October
Dull, showery weather, not much painting done today. Watch employed scraping tar and paint marks off teak work on decks. Not so much wind. Lat. 0 degs. 28’ S. Long. 29 degs. 47’ W. Course; N. 33 degs. W. Distance 110 miles.
Thursday 24th October
Dull weather, moderate breeze, painting white and touching up with red lead rigging screws stanchions etc. We crossed the line about 9:30 p.m. 99 days out, pretty long time getting here. Lat. 0 degs. 52’ N. Long. 30 degs. 42’ W. Course; N. 35 degs. W. Distance; 97 miles.
Friday 25th October
100 days out. Moderate breeze, cloudy weather. At 5 p.m. we jibed ship, bringing wind on port quarter, watch employed in painting rigging screws etc. Caught one dolphin first for the passage. Lat. 1 deg. 51’ N. Long. 32 degs. 00’ W. Course; N. 52 degs. W. Distance 98 miles.
Saturday 26th October
Wind and weather exactly the same, had an hours heavy rain, filled our washing tanks etc. Rove two new fore royal brace whips and spliced the main middle stay sail halliards. Lat. 3 degs. 03’ N. Long. 33 degs. 41’ W. Course; N. 53 degs’ W. Distance 126 miles.
Sunday 27th October
Moderate breeze, clear weather, jibed ship twice today, wind is getting gusty with occasional showers. We are getting near the end of the Trades now. Lat. 4 degs. 07’ N. Long. 35 degs. 31’ W. Course; N. 60 degs. W. Distance 127 miles.
Monday 28th October
S.E. wind up to about 11 p.m. we got a squall from the lee beam (E.N.E.) heavy rain. Then wind settled down to a light breeze, I think it is the beginning of the N.E. trades. We are painting bulwarks today, but weather is not very settled yet. Lat. 5 degs. 06’ N. Long. 36 degs. 30’W. Course; N. 45 degs. W. Distance 83 miles.
Tuesday 29th October
Wind variable in force and direction, towards evening however, it seemed to stop in the E.N.E. and began to freshen to a fresh breeze, it remained the same until morning, so we have got the trades without any delay. Lat. 6 degs. 14’ N. Long. 31 degs. 36’W. Course; N. 44 degs. W. Distance 95 miles.
Wednesday 30th October
Good steady fresh breeze, only one squall and that blew away mizzen t’mast staysail and put her rail in the water, but she has got a list to port making her cranky this side. Painting white under foc’sle head. Lat. 8 degs. 3’ N. Long. 39 degs. 21’ W. Course; N. 44 degs. W. Distance 151 miles.
Thursday 31st October
Rove a new starboard main royal brace runner and whip also two new fore and main royal sheets, fore and main starboard, upper topsail braces. Showery weather still no chance to paint outside yet. Lat. 10 degs. 14’N. Long. 41 degs. 18’W. Course; N. 37 degs. W. Distance 105 miles.
Friday 1st November
Fresh breeze, rough sea, occasional showers. All sail set. Painting white under cover, lockers etc. Turned royal halliards end for end. Weather is beginning to clear up again. Lat. 11 degs. 51’ N. Long. 43 degs. 41’ W. Course; N. 57 degs. W. Distance; 178 miles.
Saturday 2nd November
Fresh breeze, rough sea, clear weather, painted bulwarks, boats, davits and midship house, worked all afternoon. This is our first really fine day. Lat 13 degs. 45’ N. Long. 45 degs. 53’ W. Course; N. 48 degs. W. Distance 172 miles.
Sunday 3rd November
Fine clear weather, steady breeze, rough sea. We are in about the strongest part of the Trades at present. There is also 1 ½ knot current setting N.W. Lat. 15 degs. 17’ N. Long. 48 degs. 10
W. Course; N. 53 degs. W. Distance; 155 miles
Monday 4th November
Moderate breeze, sea slight, clear weather. Painted weather bulwarks second coat, first coat on boats poop rails and bridge fittings. Also finished painting my room out, two coats. Lat. 16 degs. 40’ N. Long. 49 degs. 40’ W. Course; N. 46 degs. W. Distance 120 yards.
Tuesday 5th November
Wind and weather same, finished lee bulwarks, house and everything white on main deck, also first coat on poop and foc’sle head. She is beginning to look well just now. Lat. 18 degs. 08’ N. Long. 50 degs. 53’ W. Course; N. 42 degs. W. Distance 119 miles.
Wednesday 6th November
Moderate breeze, cloudy dull weather smooth sea, busy painting white, grey and green. Wind is hauling to the S.E. Lat. 19 degs. 18’ N. Long. 51 degs. 39’ W. Course; N. 41 degs. W. Distance 94 miles
Thursday 7th November
Wind and weather same. Painted lower masts and jib boom. 2nd coat also painting grey and green. Pretty warm today. Lat. 20 degs. 32’ N. Long. 53 degs. 36 ½ W. Course; N. 50 degs. W. Distance 118 miles.
Friday 8th November
Gentle breeze, clear weather, smooth sea. We are oiling teak work today, also painting 2nd coat of white on poop and foc’sle head. Lat. 21 degs. 48’ N. Long. 55 degs. 18’W. Course; N. 53 degs. W. Distance 128 miles.
Saturday 9th November
Weather and wind same, oiled poop deck and finished all white paintwork on deck. Painting green and grey, top sail halliard winches, etc. Lat. 23 degs. 21’ N. Long. 57 degs. 02’ W. Course; N. 47 degs. W. Distance 136 miles.
Sunday 10th November
Fine clear weather, gentle breeze, smooth sea. Weather getting a trifle cooler. Lat. 24 degs. 39’ N. Long. 58 degs. 41 ½ W. Course; N. 49 degs. W. Distance 120 miles.
Monday 11th November
Weather turning showery, with clear intervals oiled teak work, 2nd coat and painted under foc’sle head. Wind is hauling to the Southward. Lat. 25 degs. 34’ N Long. 60 degs. 12’ W. Course; 56 degs. E. Distance 98 miles.
Tuesday 12th November
Wind is South West now, we have lost the N.E. Trades but as long as the wind is fair it does not matter. Painting green, winches etc. and grey on the t’gallant rails, stanchions etc. Clear weather. Lat. 26 degs. 42’ N. Long. 61 degs. 54’ W. Course; N. 53 degs. W. Distance 114 miles.
Wednesday 13th November
Good fresh breeze, rough sea, everything set and drawing, wind abeam. Painting winches and hospital and tarring the bower anchors. Weather is turning cloudy but there is a good moon just now. Wind shifted to Westward at 9:30 p.m. and fell light, occasional showers. Lat. 25 degs. 12’ N. Long. 63 degs. 23’ W. Course; N. 44 degs. W. Distance; 128 miles.
Thursday 14th November
Breeze freshening and hauling to N.E. We wore ship to N.W. Cloudy weather also showery. Painting winches etc. Sighted two steamers, outward bound. Lat. 29 degs. 00’ N. Long. 63 degs. 59’ W. Course; N. 60 degs. W. Distance; 96 miles.
Friday 15th November
Moderate N.E. breeze, clear fine weather all sail set, still painting around decks life-buoy names etc. Passed a steamer. Lat. 30 degs. 24’ N. Long. 67 degs. 16’ W. Course; N. 55 degs. W. Distance 146 miles.
Saturday 16th November
Fine clear weather. Moderate breeze wind fell light towards morning. Very warm today. Painting odds and ends around the decks washed down decks. Lat. 31 degs. 20’ N. Long. 68 degs. 59’ W. Course; N. 58 degs. W. Distance 104 miles.
Sunday 17th November
Weather same, very warm, gentle breeze, wind hauling to S.E. Passed a steamer away abeam. There is a lot of fish around. Dolphins, Albicore, Bonita, flying fish and a shark. We could not catch any. Wind freshened towards morning. Lat. 32 degs. 59’ N Long. 71 degs. 01’ W. Course; N. 47 degs. W. Distance 143 miles.
Monday 18th November
Wind freshened to a whole gale and shifted to the westward, stripped her down to foresail and two lower topsails, we had not put the buntlines on the upper topsails, it took all hands, two hours to make the two of them fast. At 6 a.m. my watch shackled on the cables to the anchors. Heavy sea running and only half an hours’ rain. Lat. 34 degs. 17’ N. Long. 71 degs. 45’ W. Course; N. 25 degs. W. Distance 87 miles.
Tuesday 19th November
Inner jib and fore t’mast staysail blew away, bent other ones. Put buntlines on the topsails, wind gusty but moderating, also the sea. Set the main upper topsail. Signalled a steamer “California” of Copenhagen. She sent us “Armistice arranged, November” submarines called back, Emperor flown “Nykoben” keep a good lookout. Lat. 34 degs. 35’ N. Long. 71 degs. 43’ W. Course; N. 4 degs. E. Distance 21 miles.
Wednesday 20th November
Wind moderating but still dead ahead. It is rotten luck, especially as the grub is giving out, rice, beams, potatoes, fresh meat, salt pork etc. Set upper t’gallants and wore ship to S.W. Lat. 33 degs. 39’ N. Long. 71 degs. 57’ W. Course; S. 11 degs. W. Distance 61 miles.
Thursday 21st November
Moderate breeze and sea, wind varying from West to North very unsteady, wore ship three times today. Spoke to S.S. “Ethel Aric” bound N.E. gave Long. 71 degs. 50’ W. at noon also gave war news. Lat. 33 degs. 46’ N. Long. 71 degs. 28’ W. Course; S. 53 degs. E. Distance 8 miles.
Friday 22nd November
Very unsteady wind, moderate to fresh, North West. Wore ship to S.W. wind inclined to haul to the Norrad. Barometer 30.08 inches, clewed up royals. Lat. 33 degs. 26’ N. Long. 72 degs. 53’ W. Course; 80 degs. W. Distance 53 miles.
Saturday 23rd November
Wind has hauled to North, moderate in force, cloudy dull weather, washed down today and painted out paint locker. Set royals and flying jib, wind hauling to the Eastward, weather clearing up. Lat. 34 degs. 43’ N. Long. 73 degs. 11’ W. Course; N. 38 degs. W. Distance 65 miles.
Sunday 24th November
Fresh increasing breeze, misty weather, wind suddenly freshened to a hard gale, all hands on deck, shortened her down from full sail to lower topsails and fore t’mast staysails, we lost the foresail, mainsail, fore upper topsail and main lower t’gallants. We hove her to on the port tack with her head S.W. Wind did not last long, it is easing down about 11 p.m. starting to blow at 4 p.m. Set fore and aft sails at 1 a.m. and wore ship, towards morning set main upper topsail and bent another fore topsail and foresail and set them. Weather clearing. Lat. 33 degs. 59’ N. Long. 75 degs. 12’ W. Course; N. 85 degs. W. Distance 167 miles.
much wind, wore to the N.E. Lat. By Polaris and Jupiter 34 degs. 27’ N. Wind hauling to North, wore ship to N.W. by W. Lat. At noon 34 degs. 44’ N. Long. 74 degs. 31’ W. Course; N. 37 degs. E. Distance 56 miles.
Tuesday 26th November
Moderate breeze dull weather, big northerly swell. Set upper t’gallants. Spoke to the S.S. “Charles Pratt” by morse code at 12 p.m. asked to be reported. Barometer 30.11 inches. Lat. 35 degs. 04’ N. Long. 75 degs. 26’ W Course; N. 66 degs. W. Distance 49 miles.
Wednesday 27th November
Wind freshening a little, hove deep sea lead twice and got no bottom at 80 fathoms. Steamer passed steering North. Weather clearing a little, got no observations. 11 p.m. got 28 fathoms. Set main royal. Lat. 36 degs. 19’N. Long. 75 degs. 17’ W. Course; N. 32 degs. W. Distance 60 miles.
Thursday 28th November
Fresh to strong breeze, heavy rain all day weather turning thick. Two steamers passed steering North. Lead being hove every two hours, she is shoaling very fast as the wind has hauled to the South East, the first fair wind for a week. Got 18 fathoms at 6 p.m. As the weather was thick and the Captain was not sure of his position, he decided to heave her to under two lower topsails and foresail until morning by which time the wind had hauled to the S.W. and our chance was gone again. Weather cleared up towards morning, when we got the “Polaris” and also the sun. Fog horn was being sounded from 12 to 4 a.m. Lat. 36 degs. 43’ N. (Sun) Long. 75 degs. 00’W. Course; S.S.E. Distance; 22 miles. Polaris Lat. 6 a.m. 36 degs. 55’ N. Long. 75 degs. 11’W.
Friday 29th November
Weather clearing up, set upper topsails and main lower t’gallants. Two steamers passed heading N.W. hove lead, no bottom 45 fathoms. The wind is now S.W. head wind again. Sighted land towards morning. Got position by cross bearings.
Saturday 30th November
Today is my twenty-first birthday. Wind has died away but it freshened towards evening again from the Norrad. We are about 11 miles south of Cape Henry. We brought it abeam at 4 a.m. At 5:30 a.m. we wore ship, but wind backed to the westward, blowing right out of the entrance to “Chesapeake Bay” dead ahead as usual. Cape Henry Lt. N.W. to N. at 5:30 a.m. South Shoalnes Lt., N. by E. ¼ E. Plenty of steamers around, it is very cold weather now.
Sunday 1st December
Clear cold weather, wind still westerly, we could not weather Cape Henry, so we put her round when only eight miles off and no sign of a tug-boat, there is another Barque here too; but she managed to get in far enough to drop anchor, we can see houses etc., ashore. At 4 p.m. we wore her round on the port tack heading about E. by N. we went on this way until midnight when we wore her round again. Cape Henry was about sixteen miles distant then, the wind had died away altogether and at about 12:30 it freshened from the E.S.E. fair wind, we set upper t’gallants and soon came up to the entrance. There’s a great crowd of steamers here, examination steamers and men-of-war. As we could not get a pilot we dropped anchor just inside and made all sail fast, it is bitterly cold and raining. A great cheer went up as the anchor went down.
Monday 2nd December
Pilot came aboard this morning to take us further in, we hove up, set topsails and lower t’gallants and proceeded on for about four miles when we let go again, we got orders to proceed direct to New York but as we have run out of provisions we have got to stay here for a few days. It is good we did for our orders have been changed for the United Kingdom, a change we are glad of.
Passage from Hampton Roads, U.S.A. to Falmouth or Queenstown for orders
Sunday 8th December
At 2:45 the Pilot, Captain and five new hands came aboard. We hove up anchor and proceeded to sea under our own sail. Light S.W. breeze blowing. We dropped the Pilot at Cape Henry. Set all plain sail. Set watches our eight hours out. At 10 p.m. Cape Henry Light dipped bearing W. ¾ S. Cape Charles Lt. bore N.W. by W. Smith Islands. Shoal Lt. bore N.W. by N. ½ N. Streamed Pat. Log 10 p.m. 6 Lat. By Obs. 37 degs. 08’ N. Long. 75 degs. 15’ W. Course E. by N. Distance 36 miles.
Monday 9th December
Wind freshening a little backing a point or so. At 3 a.m. wind freshened, furled royal, upper and lower t’gallants, heavy rain and pretty cold. Wind hauled to E.N.E. head wind again. Wore ship at noon to S.E. Sent up a new mizzen t’mast backstay, set up lifelines and prepared everything for bad weather. Lat. 37 degs. 30’ N. Long. 74 degs. 35’W. Course N. 55 degs. E. Distance; 39 miles.
Tuesday 10th December
Strong breeze, high head sea, wind still ahead, Barometer rising 30.22 inches. Two American cruisers passed astern steering N.E. Set mainsail and lower t’gallants wind is hauling to S.E. Barometer 30.30 inches. Lat. 36 degs. 43’ N. Long. 73 degs. 40’ W. Course; S. 43 degs. E. Distance; 64 miles.
Wednesday 11th December
Wind has hauled around to the Southward, heavy head sea running still, had to make fast the mainsail, lower t’gallants and fore upper topsails as the anchors are on the rail yet. We took them aboard in the morning unshackled the cables and plugged up the hawse pipes. The wind is now N.W. fair wind, set fore topsail and lower t’gallants again. We have got five stiffs aboard which makes work harder for us. Heavy rain last night, but weather is fine now. Lat. 37 degs. 33’ N. Long. 70 degs. 53’ W. Course; N. 69 degs. W. Distance 142 miles.
Thursday 12th December
We seized the new mizzen t’mast backstay, some hands are chipping the coal lockers out. Fresh breeze, weather mild. Set fore and main upper t’gallants and mainsail, outer jib and spanker. Lat. 37 degs. 34’N. Long. 67 degs. 56’ W. Course; East Distance; 140 miles.
Friday 13th December
Wind falling, light fine clear weather. Wind has hauled right round to the Southward, dull weather. Set main royal, gentle breeze. We are still scaling out the fore peak. Lat. 37 degs. 48’ N. Long. 66 degs. 53’ W. Course; N. 74 degs. E. Distance; 52 miles.
Saturday 14th December
Very mild weather, we being in the Gulf Stream still, wind is freshening a little and hauling slowly. Set fore royal, all square sail set. Barometer 30.35 inches, pretty steady. Lat. 38 degs. 39’N. Long. 63 degs. 09’W. Course; N. 82 degs. E. Distance; 169 miles.
Sunday 15th December
Not so much wind today, weather is quite warm, turning rainy but cleared away again towards night time. Steady S.W. breeze. Lat. 39 degs. 17’N. Long. 59 degs. 56’ W. Course; N. 76 degs. E. Distance; 156 miles.
Monday 16th December
Painting red lead down fore peak etc. Wind hauling to N.W. Moderate breeze. Wind freshened towards night and weather turned misty. Wind is N.E. now we wore to North. Barometer. 30.24” Lat. 39 degs. 52’N. Long. 58 degs. 57’W. Course; N. 52 degs. E. Distance 56 miles.
Tuesday 17th December
Fresh increasing breeze, drizzle rain all day. Barometer falling a little. Towards evening wind increased to a hard gale, stripped her down to upper topsails and foresail. Barometer. 30.10 inches. Lat. 40 degs. 34’ N. Long. 59 degs. 16’ W. Course; N. 20 degs. W. Distance 44 miles.
Wednesday 18th December
Wind now abating anything, very high sea running, furled upper topsails, foresail and inner jib. Drizzly rain, miserable weather. Weather is also pretty cold. Lat. 41 degs. 14’ N. Long. 58 degs. 55’ W. Course; North. Distance 82 miles.
Thursday 19th December
Wind and sea moderating a little, occasional sleet squalls. Barometer is very steady but the wind is backing to North. She is laying her course now. Set foresail main topsail and staysails. Passed derelict buoy at 10:30 a.m. Lat. 41 degs. 03’ N. N. Long. 58 degs. 19’ W. Course; S. 67 degs. E. Distance 30 miles.
Friday 20th December
Occasional showers of sleet, weather not looking very well yet, high sea still running. Set fore upper topsails, lower t’gallants and main upper t’gallants’ Bent and set another inner jib, set mainsail. Barometer 30.40” Wind is Easterly ahead as usual. Lat. 41 degs. 16’ N. Long. 56 degs. 23’ W. Course; N. 86 degs. E. Distance 88 miles.
Saturday 21st December
Wind still Easterly, but unsteady, moderate breeze. Barometer 30.45” very high, same sail set, wore ship to North 10 p.m. Wind beginning to haul a little. Steamer passed bound home. Lat. 41 degs. 45’N. Long. 56 degs. 44’ W. Course; N. 46 degs. E. Distance; 41 miles.
Sunday 22nd December
Wind hauling a little being E. by S. now. Moderate breeze, dry dull weather pretty cold. Steamer passed steering East. Wind fell light towards morning and is very unsteady. Barometer. 30.48” Lat. 42 degs. 54’ N. Long. 55 degs. 00’W. Course; N. 27 degs. E. Distance 74 miles
Monday 23rd December
Moderate breeze, two steamers passed, one heading East and the other West. Weather turning foggy, fog-horn being sounded continually. Painting out fore peak. Wore ship to S.E. at 7 a.m.. Cold damp weather, we are not far from the “Banks of Newfoundland” now. Barometer 30.18” Lat. 43 degs. 37’ N. Long. 55 degs. 02’ W. Course; N. 38 degs. E. Distance; 55 miles.
Tuesday 24th December
Moderate breeze, Easterly swell, schooner “J.W. Rafuse” or Bridgetown Barbados passed under our stern enquiring the Longitude we were within speaking distance. Foggy cold weather, head wind still. Barometer 29.98” Lat 43 degs. 09’ N. Long. 53 degs. 17’ W. Course; S. 70 degs. E. Distance 81 miles.
Wednesday 25th December
Light airs all day, foggy weather still, fog-horns going, several steamers in the vicinity. This is Christmas Day. Therefore a holiday. Wore ship at 4 a.m. Barometer 29.80” Lat. 42 degs. 50’ N. Long. 52 degs. 31’ W. Course; S. 61 degs. E. Distance; 38 miles.
Thursday 26th December
Fog clearing way, steamer passed steering East. We are cleaning out the upper peak today, preparatory to chipping it. Wind springing up from S.W. suddenly, foresail and mainsail carried way, strong breeze and heavy rain. Streamed patent log Barometer 29.50” Lat. 43 degs. 49’ N. Long. 49 degs. 56’ W. Course; N. 81 degs. E. Distance 115 miles.
Friday 27th December
Strong breeze, rough sea, overcast sky, wind hauling to Westward, furled fore upper t’gallants, but set it again also main royal as the wind fell light towards morning. Weather clearing up too. In the morning we repaired foresail and set it. Lat. 43 degs. 28’ N. Long. 45 degs. 32’ W. Course; N. 80 degs. E. Barometer 30.06 inches. Distance 111 miles.
Saturday 28th December
Light airs this morning Easterly breeze springing up which gradually increased and hauled to Southward, furled royals, upper t’gallants and outer jib, big steamer passed heading West. Barometer 29.90” Lat. 43 degs. 52’ N. Long 44 degs. 05’ W. Course; N. 49 degs. E. Distance; 83 miles.
Sunday 29th December
Fresh breeze, wind hauling to S.W. Set upper t’gallants and main royal. Drizzly rain all day. In the morning shifted to N.W. and then hauled right round to E.N.E. when it fell light. Very confused sea and misty weather. Barometer 29.86” Lat. 44 degs. 44’ N. Long. 40 degs. 29’ W. Course; N. 71 degs. E. Distance 162 miles.
Monday 30th December
Wind hauling right round to S.W. furled main royal, wind increasing to a strong breeze, misty weather, high confused sea running. Furled fore and main upper t’gallants, but set them in the morning as the wind moderated. Steamer passed heading West. Barometer 29.82” Lat. 46 degs. 48’N. Long. 35 degs. 52’ W. Course; N. 69 degs. E. Distance 199 miles.
Tuesday 31st December
Wind hauling to N.W. Strong breeze which however eased down towards morning. Very heavy N.W. sea running, shipping very heavy water also rolling a great deal, furled fore and main upper t’gallants Steamer passed heading East. Barometer 30.22” clear weather. Lat. 47 degs. 23’ N. Long. 30 degs. 56’ W. Course; N. 80 degs. E. Distance 205 miles.
Wednesday 1st January 1919 – New Years’ Day
Fine clear weather, fresh breeze high sea running from westward. Still shipping heavy water now and again. Occasional sleet squalls, lightning observed from all quarters. Barometer 29.92” Lat. 47 degs. 57’ N. Long 27 degs. 13’ W. Course; N. 77 degs. E. Distance 153 miles
Thursday 2nd January
Wind freshening and weather turning squally, with lightning in squalls. Barometer falling rapidly, at 8 p.m. the foresail blew away, furled main lower t’gallants and two upper topsails and inner jib. Barometer 29.60” Lat. 48 degs. 24’ N. Long. 24 degs. 04’ W. Course; N. 78 degs. E. Distance 129 miles.
Friday 3rd January
Raining heavily wind backing to S.W. and increasing. At 4 p.m. it shifted to the North West and started to blow hard. We hove her to on the starboard tack under two lower topsails. Terrific squalls and mountainous seas blowing a whole gale between squalls, vivid lightning in squalls. At 5 p.m. the port clew iron of the fore lower topsail carried away, we called all hands and managed to make the starboard side of sail fast. Ship hove down all the time shipping heavy water. Sighted two steamers. Barometer. 29.00 inches. Wind moderated a little towards morning. Lat. 48 degs. 08’ N. Long. 32 degs. 52’ W. Course; S. 73 degs. E. Distance 51 miles.
Saturday 4th January
Weather still squally, strong gale, tremendous sea running. Decks full of water all the time. Three times St. Elmo’s lights have been visible on the trucks royal yardarms and braces. Wind and sea moderated towards morning. Barometer rising to 29.62 inches. Set mizzen staysail. Lat. 47 degs. 04’N. Long. 21 degs. 19’ W. Course; S. 60 degs. E. Distance 55 miles. Drift for two days 66 miles, 44 hours hove to.
Sunday 5th January
Wind falling light, set main upper topsail, goose winged foresail and fore lower topsail, fore t’mast staysail and kept ship off to her course. Towards midnight wind began to freshen again, Barometer is falling to 29.03” Furled main upper topsail, foresail and fore lower topsails. By morning wind had increased to a hard gale and weather turning squally, hove her to on starboard tack and goose winged main lower topsail in a terrific squall. Cold weather now. Lat. 47 degs. 23’ N. Long. 18 degs. 59’ W. Course; N. 79 degs. E. Distance 103 miles.
Monday 6th January
Gale increasing steadily, terrific squalls, by 8 p.m. the gale was at its’ height, about every 15 minutes squalls of hurricane force have her down so that the lee side of the main hatch was in the water, the sea was phenomenal. At 10 p.m. a tremendous sea smashed the cook’s door in, putting a great gash in his head, we got him floating around aft, same sea smashed our lifeboats, washing the port one over the side and snapping the stout steel davit clean off from the rail, main royal blew adrift from the gaskets becoming a total loss. St. Elmo’s lights were visible in nearly every squall, a bad sign. Watch were standing by on the poop all night. Poop and foc’sle head ladders were smashed away, chip’s door smashed and room gutted completely out, terrible night the oldest hands on board never recollect having seen so violent a gale. Running gear in main rigging all got washed away and the ends frayed. Also the officer’s W.C. got gutted out. We have got no boats now. Wind and sea moderated slightly towards morning, one man got his thigh severely hurt by the sea. Barometer. 29.00” Lat. 46 degs. 53’ N. Long. 17 degs. 46’ W. Course; S. 61 degs. E. Distance; 69 miles.
Tuesday 7th January
Gale moderating, squalls decreasing in volume but there is a tremendous sea still running, ship is lurching her rail under all the time. Towards evening wind fell light, but about 11 p.m. the Barometer began to fall, wind backed to S.W. with rain. Before morning it was blowing a whole gale of wind again. Barometer 29 degs. 22’ Lat. 46 degs. 31’N. Long. 17 degs. 12’ W. ½ Course; S. 58 degs. E Distance; 41 miles.
Wednesday 8th January
Blowing a hard gale, tremendous sea running, ship labouring very heavily, decks full of water. Towards night the wind eased off to a moderate breeze. Barometer began to rise, so we set fore and main lower topsails goose winged foresail and kept her off to her course, heavy sea running still. Barometer 29.90 Lat. 45 degs. 52’ N. Long. 16 degs. 13’ W. Course; S. 47 degs. E. Distance; 57 miles
Thursday 9th January
Strong breeze, high beam sea, ship rolling heavily, decks full of water, occasional light hail squalls. Set fore and main upper topsail, and furled foresail as a seam carried away in it. Set inner jib. Bar. 29 degs. 75’ Lat. 46 degs. 56’ N. Long. 13 degs. 50’ W. Course; N. 58 degs. E. Distance 121 miles.
Friday 10th January
Moderate to fresh breeze heavy N.W. swell, ship rolling deck awash all the time, sky overcast, weather dull. Wind is hauling to the North’d. We shifted the fore lower topsail and set fore and main lower t’gallant sails and set fore and main lower t’gallants. Barometer 29 degs. 60’ Lat. 47 degs. 56’ N. Long. 11 degs. 16’ W. Course; N. 62 degs. E. Distance 128 miles.
Saturday 11th January
Light breeze, fine clear weather. Not so much sea now got up both cables on deck and shackled on to the anchors. Wind is backing to the Westward. Bar. 29 degs. 61’ Two steamers passed. Lat. 48 degs. 56’ N. Long. 9 degs. 45’ W. Course; N. 45 degs. E. Distance 85 miles.
Sunday 12th January
Wind backing to S.W. bringing fine drizzly rain, but shifted to N.W. in squalls, weather clearing up. Set main upper t’gallant sails. Three steamers passed.St. Agnes. Lighthouse visible on port bow, bent and set foresail. Barometer. 29 degs. 74’
Monday 13th January
Bishop Rock abeam 1 p.m. Distance 6 miles. Moderate to fresh breeze, wind backing to S.W. weather turning rainy and thick. Lizard Light abeam 8:30 p.m. and dipped 11:10 p.m. bearing N.W. by W. ¼ W. Weather turning thick. AT 3:30 a.m. the land suddenly loomed up ahead huge jagged rocks, we were on port tack and wore her round to starboard tack, the land was less than a ships length off when she got round. We made it out to be Gull Rock. About six miles further on than Falmouth so we have over run our distance. Furled t’gallants and outer jib. Two steamers and a schooner passed. We wore to N.W. again at noon.
Tuesday 14th January
Weather very thick, raining nearly all day. Furled foresail. Three masted barque passed under same sail as us bound up channel. At 5:30 p.m. we saw Eddystone Lighthouse through the mist, bearing E. by N. (Mag) wore ship to Southward 8 p.m. At about 3 a.m. we again saw Eddystone Lighthouse as tide set us in towards it. Weather clearing a little. We then squared away for it, setting main lower t’gallants and forsail. 6 a.m. Eddystone abeam, hauled up for Plymouth Sound, weather turning wet and thick again. At 8 p.m. we hove to on port tack waiting for pilot. Pilot came aboard, proceeded into harbour. At 10:30 made sails fast and let go port anchor 45 fathoms shackled out. This afternoon a strong S.W. gale was blowing. Appointed J.Lindsay night watchman.
We remained in Plymouth Harbour until 31st January awaiting orders none of the crew were allowed ashore in the meantime, which was very frustrating for us after such a long passage. Orders were then received that we were to proceed to Dublin under tow to discharge our cargo of wheat.
Towing round from Plymouth to Dublin.
January 31st 1919
7 a.m. hove short to 30 fathoms. At 8:40 Tug ‘Drago’ came off, we hove up our anchor, coming up flukes first, we shackled on his wire to our cable and towed from the windlass giving him ten fathoms of cable, N.E. wind blowing, fresh breeze, set lower top sails and main upper topsail, also all four aft sails. 5:30 p.m. St. Anthony’s Lighthouse abeam, 7:47 p.m. Lizard Light abeam, signalled our name and destination. Wolf Lt. abeam 11 p.m. distance 5 miles and Longships. Lighthouse abeam at 11:45 p.m. distance ½ mile. Tug then hauled up and we had to furl our square sails as they would not draw.
February 1st 1919
1:10 a.m. Wra Lt. abeam distance five miles, fresh gusty breeze, weather extremely cold, sky overcast, slight sea. At 2 p.m. we set the topsails again as wind is hauling a little, Smalls Lighthouse abeam at 3:10 p.m. and Kish Lighthouse V. abeam at 6 p.m. Pilot came aboard and we let go the port anchor with 30 fathoms out.
February 2nd - 7 a.m.
Hove cable short, unbent foresail and cockbilled fore and main yards after sending down the lower topsail sheets. At 9 p.m. we hove up anchor and tug Drage took us alongside the North Wall to our berth. At 12 a.m. we were all fast starboard cable on the quay. Crew are all finished now, and will be paid off. We are delighted to get our feet on land again.
Voyage commenced 29th September 1917
Finished 2nd February 1919
R.J. Farrell
Second mate