Images of Life at Sea 19

The purser's work space on board the Acasta. Image submitted by Acasta Purser, Brian Cushing.

Images of Life at Sea 18

... 10am light breezes NEbyN. Spoke a barcalonga out of Marsala - no news of the French, but purchased a quantity of fresh oranges...

Images of Port and Oranges submitted by Captain C. Bertani of HMS Cornwall (74) North Sea station.

Images of Life at Sea 17

'Rolette' under oars, with Gen. Sir Isaac Brock aboard.

Dale Kidd is a member of Provincial Marine Amherstburg, interpreting the role of the Provincial Marine squadron based at the King's Navy Yard at the mouth of the Detroit River in the War of 1812. Mr. Kidd portrays the Master at Arms of His Majesty's Brig General Hunter.

The Master-at-Arms' desktop.

Heart of Oak

A Return to Bermuda

Bermuda, 18th Feb 1813

The Acasta has return'd to the Navy Dockyard after a fruitless search for the American frigate that chased HMS Dotterel at the first of this month. The Acasta, as well as the other ships of the search party, the Ramillies and Dotterel, found no evidence of the mystery frigate after our extended hunt.

Whoever she might have been, she must have been fast and well ahead of us.

The Acasta is scheduled to return to the blockade in the North American Station after taking on fresh water and provisions. I need to go ashore and procure some medicinals to refresh some of my depleted stores. I will plan my trip ashore in such a way as to be of a sufficient length that I might get a decent meal while in town.

St. Valentine's Day 1813

While out upon the blockade, especially upon this St. Valentine's Day, I often wonder what my Miss Waterman is up to at home. Visiting friends, socializing, card playing or about her piano forte. 

Taking Tea

The assembled Acastas from L to R: Mr. Raley, Doctor Roberts, Lt Ramsey & Ship's Purser Mr. Cushing.

Our complete assembled aprty.