Narrative of the American Brig Commerce, Wrecked on the Western Coast of Africa; Bound with A Narrative of the Shipwreck of the Ship Oswego

This volume contains two narratives of maritime disasters. The first, "An Authentic Narrative of the American Brig Commerce, Wrecked on the Western Coast of Africa, in the Month of August, 1815," by James Riley, details a shipwreck, subsequent enslavement, and eventual rescue. Published in New York by the author in 1818, this third edition includes ten copperplate engravings and a folding map (partially missing). The book offers a firsthand account of the author's experiences, including observations on the social hierarchy among captives, noting the position of Jews within the system. The second narrative, "A Narrative of the Shipwreck of the Ship Oswego, on the Coast of South Barbary," by Judah Paddock, recounts the shipwreck of the Oswego off Cape Verde in 1800, the subsequent imprisonment by Arabs, and the crew's eventual release. This first edition, published in New York by Collins & Co. in 1818, details Paddock's ordeal, including a mutiny and captivity. Both narratives provide valuable historical insights into maritime disasters, slavery, and captivity in the early 19th century.

Associated People/Businesses

• Riley, James

Geography

No geographic information available.

Subjects

• Shipwrecks
• Slavery
• Navigation--History

Physical Location