The autobiography of Ashley Bowen, (1728-1813) / edited by Daniel Vickers.

"The first American sailor known to write his own autobiography, Ashley Bowen remains a valuable storyteller who can speak to today's readers about the maritime world in the age of sail. Ashley Bowen began his seafaring career at the age of eleven. After leaving the sea, Bowen spent the rest of his days as a ship-rigger in Marblehead, Massachusetts. A witness to significant historical events, including the British conquest of Canada and the American Revolution, he confounds today's audience with his eighteenth-century interpretation of events - an interpretation informed by his deeply religious beliefs and his suspicion of Yankee patriotism."--Provided by the publisher.