Description

Title: H. M. Bark Endeavour
Author/Publisher: Ray Parkin, Miegunyah Press
Publication Year: 2003
Format: Hardcover, with Dust Jacket, Illustrations and Maps

Ray Parkin's highly acclaimed and multi-award winning study of Captain James Cook's Endeavour. This incomparable book is a unique account of a great journey-Endeavour's voyage up the east coast of Australia in 1770-and a remarkable re-creation of the experience of being on board ship. Parkin draws on meticulous research to reveal what the Endeavour looked like, how it sailed, how it smelled, what daily life would have been like for those on board. How many strands of yarn were in the ship's cable? (954.) Did the ship have a lightning conductor? (Yes.) What was the diameter of her main mast? (21 inches.) These details are illustrated by plans and figures depicting the ship's architecture and construction, its deck plan, rigging, sails, armament, boats, cables, anchors and accommodation, all beautifully drawn by Parkin. A composite log of Endeavour's voyage-extracts from journals kept by those on board-is supplemented by an interpretive commentary and explanatory charts. H.M. Bark Endeavour is an absorbing book: discursive, erudite, at times poetic, full of wisdom, insight and information.

Synopsis

Ray Parkin's 'H. M. Bark Endeavour' is a definitive non-fiction study of Captain James Cook's iconic vessel and its pivotal 1770 voyage along the east coast of Australia. This meticulously researched volume offers a comprehensive exploration of the ship, its crew, and the momentous journey that forever altered the mapping of the world.

Published by Miegunyah Press, this hardcover edition provides an unparalleled re-creation of life aboard the Endeavour. Parkin's narrative delves into the intricate details of the ship's design, its operational capabilities, and the daily challenges faced by those embarking on this landmark expedition of discovery and exploration.

• The Vessel Itself: Drawing on extensive research, Parkin provides a detailed portrait of the H.M. Bark Endeavour, from its initial design as a collier to its refit for scientific exploration. Readers gain insight into its construction, the intricate mechanics of its sailing, and the unique conditions experienced by its complement during long periods at sea.
• The Historic Voyage of 1770: The book meticulously chronicles Endeavour's monumental expedition along the uncharted eastern coast of Australia in 1770. It details the challenges, the pivotal landfalls, and the significant discoveries made during this voyage that profoundly shaped the world's understanding of the Australian continent.
• Rich Illustrations and Cartography: Enhanced with numerous illustrations and detailed maps, the volume visually complements Parkin’s authoritative text. These visual elements provide crucial context for understanding the ship's structure, the explored coastlines, and the scientific observations made during the journey, bringing the narrative vividly to life.

This comprehensive non-fiction work offers an unparalleled insight into one of history's most celebrated voyages, making it an essential acquisition for enthusiasts of Australian history, maritime exploration, and the enduring legacy of Captain James Cook.

Condition

This item has been professionally inspected and is in Very Good condition. Please refer to the photographs for detailed visual assessment.

Specifications