Wrecked on the reef : maritime archaeology of American whaleships in the Pacific Ocean / Jason T. Raupp.

Author/creator Raupp, Jason T. author.
Format Book
PublicationTuscaloosa : The University of Alabama Press, [2026]
Descriptionxii, 270 pages : illustrations, maps ; 23 cm.
Subjects

SeriesMaritime currents : history and archaeology
Maritime currents. ^A1427581
Abstract "Wrecked on the Reef: Maritime Archaeology of American Whaleships in the Pacific Ocean explores the industrial nature of American deep-water whaling ships operating in the Pacific Ocean. Unlike the vessels used in other seaborne merchant activities of the period, whaleships were constructed and organized to be floating production platforms. The industrial system, which has been neglected in archaeological studies, involved organized labor and a series of interrelated processes and tools, many of which were adapted from Indigenous and European whaling traditions that developed over centuries. By connecting historical and archival research, archaeological site inspections, and comparative studies of museum collections, Jason Raupp contextualizes the industrial experience and working environment on board those whaling vessels. Each source provides a different perspective, illuminating the "Golden Age" of whaling (1815-1860). This engaging and accessible narrative overviews the experience from the earliest known whaling to the decline of the whaling industry and what can be learned from American whaleship wrecks that lie in the waters off the Hawaiian islands. The narrative brings readers into the heart of preparing for voyages and daily routines, from outfitting of the vessels, meals, recreation, and healthcare, to details of the hunt, the processing of the whale parts, and the duties and status of the workers on board. Numerous photographs of archaeological finds from submerged shipwrecks complement the history of the industrial nature of the workplaces. This book will be a must-have for all fascinated by America's whaling past"-- Provided by publisher.
Bibliography noteIncludes bibliographical references (pages 225-263) and index.
LCCN 2025015441
ISBN9780817322519 hardcover
ISBN0817322515 hardcover
ISBN9780817362317 paperback
ISBN0817362312 paperback
ISBNelectronic book

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