Measurement: The box: 5" x 8" x 7.5"

Material: Brass, wood, paper

Condition: Generally good, commensurate with age and use; typical shrinkage crack to
rim of bowl, original green, and red paint; Masonic compass and square in
black. One hanging cleat missing.

Additional Information: Compass from the Larboard whaleboat of the Whaleship
Robert Edwards of New Bedford. A rare example of an American whaleboat compass
with early painted LB for Larboard boat on chamfered sliding lid; Masonic compass and
square painted of the front of compass box. On the underside of wooden lid is a pencil
written legend stating “Ship Robert Edwards” with several numbers follow which appear
to report barrels of sperm oil taken. There is also a signature at the bottom. This
nautical dry-card compass within a turned wooden bowl gimbal mounted in a wooden
slide lid box.
The Robert Edwards had a long and varied history. Being built in New York in 1817,
and continued in service for much, or possible all, of its career as a New Bedford
Whaler until burned by its crew several hundred miles off Rio Janeiro [sic]. The
Whalemen’s Shipping List first reports on September 13th, 1870 that the Robert
Edwards was burned at sea on July 24th, and the crew rescued by the Mary Rico of
Baltimore. On October 25th, 1870, the same reported the Robert Edwards was set on
fire by 4 of her crew who were taken into custody in Rio to be sent to the United States.
One of the perpetrators, John Jansen, jumped overboard and disappeared while the
rest of the crew fought the blaze. On March 14th of 1871 it was reported that three
remaining seamen had been to trial with one being found guilty, and the jury was unable
to agree on the other 2 defendants. The penalty for the offence is death!
Charles R. Sherman, (flourished 1865-1905) dealer in nautical, mathematical, and
optical instruments, charts, nautical books, patent logs, stationery, &c., no. 49 North
Water Street, New Bedford Charles Sherman was active as an instrument maker in
New Bedford from 1849-1865 thereafter adding ‘& Co’.

879-144

Measurement: Length: 23.25"; height: 5.25"; depth: 3.25"

Material: Hardwood, paint

Condition: Fine and original

Additional Information: The Boston Artistic Carving Company was established in the
1890’s and is mostly known for their eagle plaques. This fully dimensional sculpture
painted in black enamel is quite realistic. The carving is sold with a walnut display stand
which is likely original.

879-134

Measurement: Diameter: 5”

Material: Free blown glass, light aqua

Condition: Fine

Additional Information: These Closed balls were used to float fishing nets, also used
for covers on pitches, bowls, and store jars, thinner walled balls were produced for
packing, they were placed upon vases as a support for the rims during shipment. This
pair with granny note was bought perhaps 75years ago in Gloucester…the jelly label
states that: “they were old then”.

879-147

Length:32.5"; height: 28.5"; width: 5.5"

Wood, paint, linen sails

A competently constructed pond boat having weighted full
keel. Yellow, green, and red paint is original and displays a good patina; mast, jib boom,
and main boom are varnished. Very good condition with minor sail and rigging
imperfections commensurate with age and use.

492-227

1335-4

1310-54