Observations by Lieut. George Raper, R.N., 1787-1794 [manuscript]
Creator
Raper, George, 1769-1796
Call Number
MS 9433/1
Created/Published
[1787-1794]
Extent
1 v. ([15] p.)
Items
16
Scope and Content
Manuscript, ink on paper, 235 x 190 mm, 15 unnumbered pages. Stitched in original nonpareil paper wrappings (standard Admiralty stationery), front wrapper titled. Each page is divided into columns and records standard nautical observations: date, time of watch, distances, longitude, record of errors in chronometers with maker's name. There were four watches and therefore four entries per day. The volume covers the following periods: "Sirius" 20 May 1787-14 Jan 1788 (Portsmouth to Botany Bay) and 4 Oct. 1788-16 April 1789 (Voyage round the world); Sydney Cove (14 March-28 May 1788); "Speedy" (31 July 1793); "Commerce de Marseille" (14-20 Oct. 1794).
Background
Seaman and artist. Joined HMS Sirius as able bodied seaman Dec. 1786 and promoted to midshipman Sept. 1787 on voyage to New South Wales. Sailed on Sirius on voyage to Cape of Good Hope 1788-89 and was at Norfolk Island in 1790-91. Returned to England in April 1792