Over the past weeks there have been a number of distressing events onboard our vessels. The journey to South Australia is a long and treacherous one, with poor weather, illness and deaths making the voyage even more challenging. The passengers are starting to feel the effects of their long voyage and confinement at sea. This week we read about passengers who have not changed their clothing for days and learn that a number of others continue to display symptoms of illness, including scarlet fever.
As we head into week 20, take the time to put yourself into the shoes of these passengers. Understandings about the wider world and journeys at sea were limited in 1836. Everyone onboard experienced a range of emotions, feelings and had different beliefs. Sailors in the 18th and 19th century were often superstitious, and although we don’t read about it this week, maybe some of the passengers onboard these vessels were also superstitious. This week we explore some of the superstitions at sea and their links to reality.
scene between decks during bad weather. Edward Snell, 1849
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