Skip to main content
Want more images or videos?
Request additional images or videos from the seller
1 of 14

Logbook of the Brig John Gilpin: Baltimore to Canton, 1832–1841

$2,000
£1,508.52
€1,742.35
CA$2,802.14
A$3,115.82
CHF 1,631.19
MX$38,060.28
NOK 20,497.46
SEK 19,281.97
DKK 13,006.54

About the Item

A rare and highly detailed early 19th-century maritime logbook chronicling the voyages of the American merchant brig John Gilpin, based out of Baltimore, Maryland, operating between the United States and Canton (Guangzhou), China. Spanning nearly a decade, from May 1832 through December 1841, this handwritten volume comprises 19 pages of meticulously recorded entries documenting courses, latitudes, longitudes, prevailing winds, navigational notes, and weather conditions, maintained by the ship’s officers over a series of East and West-bound transoceanic passages. The first entries begin with a dated record: “Journal of Brig John Gilpin, Baltimore to Canton. Left Cape Henry May 20th, 1832,” followed by daily entries across longitudinal progression. Each row includes date, latitude, longitude, course, wind direction, and supplemental remarks—e.g., “Saw a quantity of Gulf weed… sharks,” or notes on trade winds, shifting currents, or passing sails. These notations provide insight not only into the vessel’s navigation but also into environmental observations and maritime culture of the period. Further back in the volume appears an extraordinary aggregation: “Aggregate of Brig John Gilpin’s passages”, which functions as a summary index for over 20 passages between Baltimore, Canton, Manila, and other global ports from 1832 through 1841. Each voyage is listed by departure and arrival date, port of call, and duration in days—demonstrating the cyclical and global scope of American trade during the Canton System and the height of the China Trade era. Bound in period blue-green linen over board with leather spine (heavily worn), the logbook’s interior exhibits expected signs of wear from use at sea, including chipped edges, foxing, and minor loss to margins—though the handwriting remains entirely legible in sepia ink throughout. The consistent hand, and the neat tabular structure of the navigational data, suggest the work of a ship’s first officer or navigator well-versed in transoceanic recordkeeping. This manuscript provides a rare primary-source glimpse into early American maritime commerce, navigation, and the practical rhythms of long-distance mercantile voyages during the pre-Opium War era. It is especially significant for its references to ports in China and Southeast Asia, making it a valuable document for scholars of 19th-century American-Chinese trade relations.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 10.125 in (25.72 cm)Width: 12.875 in (32.71 cm)Depth: 0.25 in (6.35 mm)
  • Style:
    American Colonial (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    C. 1832-1841
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Book shows its age. Damage to binding and covers - Pages with areas of loss.
  • Seller Location:
    Atlanta, GA
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU7838246473692

More From This Seller

View All
C. 1850 American Domed Leather Document or Valise Box, - Worcester County
Located in Atlanta, GA
Mid-19th Century American Domed Leather Document or Valise Box, Monogrammed “H. S.”, Likely Worcester County, Massachusetts Measuring 17 inches wide, 9.25 inches deep, and 7 inches ...
Category

Antique Mid-19th Century American American Colonial Decorative Boxes

Materials

Brass

Antique Primitive American Paint Decorated Tool or Document Storage Box
Located in Atlanta, GA
This antique American storage box exudes a charming rustic appeal with its hand-painted design on a sturdy wooden surface. The box dates back to the 1800s and features ample space to store tools or documents, making it perfect for collectors or those who appreciate primitive decor. The brown color of the box adds a natural touch to any room and its simple, naive style fits seamlessly into any interior design theme. This piece is a must-have for antique enthusiasts who appreciate the history and craftsmanship of the past. Green & Brown paint. The Antique Primitive American Paint Decorated Tool or Document Storage Box is a unique and charming piece of American folk art. These boxes were commonly used in the 18th and 19th centuries to store tools, documents, or other small items. The box is typically made of wood and features a simple, rustic design. It may have dovetail or nailed construction, showcasing the craftsmanship of the time. The surface of the box is often hand-painted with decorative motifs or patterns, adding a touch of color and artistry. The paint decoration on these boxes can vary greatly, depending on the region and the individual artist. It may include floral designs, geometric patterns, or even scenic landscapes. The paint is typically applied in a folk art style, with bold brushstrokes and vibrant colors. These storage boxes were primarily functional, but the paint decoration adds an aesthetic appeal that makes them highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts of American folk art. They are a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of early American craftsmen. The age and condition of an antique primitive American paint decorated tool or document storage box can greatly affect its value. Boxes in good condition with well-preserved paint decoration are particularly prized by collectors. This type of antique box serves as a fascinating glimpse into American history and the everyday lives of the people who used them. They make wonderful additions to collections of folk art, Americana, or vintage storage containers...
Category

Antique Early 19th Century American Primitive Cigar Boxes and Humidors

Materials

Wood, Paint

John Ogilby Oxford to Salisbury Road Map #82 Circa 1675
By John Ogilby
Located in Atlanta, GA
John Ogilby (Scottish, 1600-1676). - Circa 1675 This map is part of his Britannica publication and is #82. "The road map was first popularised by John Ogilby (1600-1676), Scotsm...
Category

Antique 17th Century Scottish French Provincial Decorative Art

Materials

Burl

19th Century, Chinese Export Junk Ship Maritime Painting
Located in Atlanta, GA
This **19th-century Chinese Export gouache on board painting** presents a striking depiction of a **Chinese junk at harbor**, with delicate brushwork capturing the vessel's ornate co...
Category

Antique 19th Century Chinese Chinese Export Paintings

Materials

Giltwood, Paint

Augustus Schwartze, Founder of the Union Manufacturing Co, Baltimore C. 1810-20
Located in Atlanta, GA
Portrait of Augustus Schwartze, Founder of the Union Manufacturing Company, Baltimore, Maryland American School, c. 1810–1820 This striking early 19th-century American portrait depi...
Category

Antique Early 19th Century American American Classical Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Giltwood, Paint

John Ogilby Oxford to Salisbury Road Map #83 Circa 1675
By John Ogilby
Located in Atlanta, GA
John Ogilby (Scottish, 1600-1676). - Circa 1675 This map is part of his Britannica publication and is #83. "The road map was first popularised by John Ogilby (1600-1676), Scotsm...
Category

Antique 17th Century Scottish Regency Decorative Art

Materials

Burl, Paper

You May Also Like

A Fascinating Ship’s Log And Journal Relating To The Whitway/Whiteway
Located in Lymington, Hampshire
A Fascinating Ship’s Log And Journal Relating To The Whitway/Whiteway Family of Bristol Mariners, Along With A Dispatch Letter From The Bureau in St Petersburg Relating to One Of The...
Category

Antique Early 19th Century Nautical Objects

Materials

Paper

Fabric Sample Book Dated 1835 from Dollfus Mieg Et Compagnie (Book)
Located in North Yorkshire, GB
This is a beautiful and historic fabric sample book dated from 1835 (as can be seen on the front cover), which was produced by Dollfus Mieg and Comp...
Category

Antique 19th Century Books

Materials

Cotton

Set of Old Bound Books from 19th Century
Located in Beuzevillette, FR
Set of old religious books dating from the 19th century. From an old protestant library near Le Havre in France. These beautiful books are perfect to fill a nice library. Sizes may v...
Category

Antique 19th Century French Books

Materials

Leather, Paper

Regulations for Artillery Inventories, Turin 1848
Located in Torino, IT
Regulations for the inventories of artillery material - Part I. Approved by General Villamarina, dedicated to Count Carlo Maffei di Boglio. F.lli Catellazzo typography. Turin, 184...
Category

Antique 19th Century Italian Books

Antique Book, Carpenter and Joiner's Assistant, Architecture, Design, Victorian
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
This is an antique reference book, The Carpenter and Joiner's Assistant. An English language illustrated architecture and design title, dating to the Victorian period, circa 1860. F...
Category

Antique Mid-19th Century British Victorian Books

Materials

Paper

Antique "Latin-Français" Lexicon by Emile Chatelain – 1890 - 3Y20
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This rare 19th-century Latin-Français lexicon by Emile Chatelain, published in 1890 by Hachette et Compagnie in Paris, offers a valuable linguistic reference for scholars and collect...
Category

Antique 1890s Antiquities

Materials

Paper