Walter Colton
Deck and port
$b or, incidents of a cruise in the United States frigate Congress to California. With sketches of Rio Janeiro, Valparaiso, Lima, Honolulu, and San Francisco
"Deck and Port; or, Incidents of a Cruise in the United States Frigate Congress to California" by Rev. Walter Colton is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The book chronicles Colton's experiences and observations during his voyage aboard the U.S. Frigate Congress as it sails to California, including stops at various ports like Rio de Janeiro and Honolulu. It offers insights into life at sea, naval discipline, and interactions among the crew and passengers, providing a window into the maritime culture of the time. At the start of the narrative, Colton shares his initial experiences as he prepares to embark on the voyage, detailing the urgency of boarding the ship and the bustling atmosphere as they set sail. He paints vivid descriptions of the ship's environment, including arrangements for passengers and the ship’s commendable structure. The opening scenes include reflections on divine service held on board, the challenges faced due to adverse winds, and the camaraderie among the crew as they prepare for their journey through the vast ocean. The author’s observations extend to the moral and spiritual life on the ship, illustrating how the elements of nature and the rigors of naval life influence both the crew's character and their sense of duty.