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Captain George Pollard

This person had been the first mate on the Essex's previous journey. In 1819, this character was promoted to Captain.

Owen Chase

This person was the first mate aboard the Essex and part of several disastrous decisions, including convincing the Captain to sail towards South America, rather than an easier journey toward the Society Islands.

Thomas Nickerson

This person served as the cabin boy, was fourteen when the Essex sailed from Nantucket, and was one of three in his boat to survive after the ship sank.

Matthew Joy

This second mate on the Essex suffered from an undiagnosed illness and was the first of the crew to pass away.

Thomas Chappel

This person was one of the boat steerers who chose to remain on Henderson Island. Returning to London in June of 1823, he contributed to a religious tract using the tragedy of the Essex as a...

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