Photocopy and transcription of logbook of Captain George Cannon and transcription of Cannon's grandson's journal (also a George Cannon)

Date(s): 1798-1843

Creator(s): Various

Scope & Content: Cannon’s logbook of two of his slaving voyages, 1798-1800, contains entries in a pre-printed book. He records the weather during the 24 hour period, the state of the sails, the bearing and distance of any landmarks, any ships that were seen and spoken to, what the crew or ‘people’ were employed in doing, how many provisions were left during the Middle Passage, and daily, the distance travelled, course, latitude and longitude. Cannon also includes news about general health, sickness and at times death of slaves under his custody. Photocopy. Also a transcription of this logbook prepared by descendant Bob as well as a transcription of another George Cannon's journal recording his 1842-1843 journey from Liverpool to Nauvoo, America via New Orleans and Saint Louis.

For accompanying photograph see PG/8313

Administration / Biographical History: George Cannon (1766-1811) was a Peel man who attended the Peel Mathematical School (for navigational instruction) between April 1781 and August 1783. Later that year it was reported that he was ‘at sea’. Cannon was first mate of the 'Iris' when Captain John Spencer died at Angola on 30 August 1798. Cannon took charge of the ship and sailed for Jamaica with slaves, returning to Liverpool in April 1799. Less than three months later the 'Iris' sailed again with Cannon as Captain. By the time she reached Jamaica the ship was leaking heavily and was condemned as not fit to put to sea; the remaining crew returned to Liverpool on other ships. The 'Minerva' was Cannon’s last Guinea command, delivering slaves at New Providence and returning to Liverpool in August 1803. Cannon died at sea in July 1811.

Language: English

Extent: 3 volumes

Item name: logbook, journal, transcription

Collection: Manuscript Archive

Level: FONDS

ID number: MS 11518

Record class: Private

Access conditions: No regulations or restrictions are implemented on this material. Advance notification of a research visit is advisable by emailing library@mnh.gov.im

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