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  1. #1
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    Default Put before the mast

    In 1833 a member of a ship's company was "put before the mast" on the vessel's return to port. Am I right in thinking that this was some form of disciplinary hearing or "court"?

    It is interesting to note that the individual was one of eight members of the crew who were transferred or discharged before the ship's next voyage.

  2. #2
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    Yes, this was a common punishment in the days of sail. The offender usually had his hands tied and his feet secured to the deck and was often left exposed to the elements in this position for 8 hours or more.

  3. #3
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    What was the rank of this individual?

    "Before the mast" referred to common sailors eg the book "Two Years Before the Mast". Being "turned against the mast" was a downgrading in rank to common seaman.

  4. #4
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    He had been the ship's steward but for this voyage he was reduced to steward's mate.

    Before the ship's next voyage he was transferred and seven other members of the crew were either transferred or discharged. The vessel was Duke of York, a Falmouth packet.

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