Whitworth, James, Naval Seaman, Fl. 1776-1812.

The collection consists of twelve letters written by James Whitworth, an impressed seaman serving on the brig-sloop HMS PORTIA (1810) in the North Sea, to his wife Charlotte, between February 1812 and October 1812. There is one additional family letter.

Whitworth complains about many aspects of life on the PORTIA and expresses frustration in not being able to see his family, despite the ship making frequent visits to ports including Yarmouth and Chatham. He also provides advice for his wife in the running of their business. Whitworth got into trouble after attempting to desert from the ship in November 1812. This resulted in him being imprisoned in irons.

Object Details

ID: WHW
Type: Manuscript
Display location: Not on display
Date made: 1812
Credit: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London
Measurements: 1 box
Parts: Whitworth, James, Naval Seaman, Fl. 1776-1812.