Accession Number

1986.008.0705

Creation Date

circa 1620

Description

Of slightly-bowed molded- rectangular form drilled with 14 thread holes.

Exhibition Label

Case Caption (2023):

Sailing The Ship

A galleon was a complex vessel, requiring expert handling at all levels. Both sailors and officers might develop a specialty, but they had to be able to perform a variety of jobs, as required. It was hard and sometimes dangerous work—a fall from the rigging either onto the deck or into the sea could prove fatal. Rations were poor and shipboard discipline was harsh. However, ordinary sailors were better paid than peasants or laborers, and they often enjoyed a sense of adventure.

Ideally, sailors of every rank went to sea as children and learned their trades by practical experience and apprenticeship. Many youngsters came from seafaring families, following in their elders’ footsteps. Others were running away from their families and eager to start their own lives.
Object Caption (2023): 

Part of a Bedframe
Wood (c.1620)
Gift of Jamestown Inc.
1986.008.0705

While common sailors slept in hammocks and passengers often just curled up on a heap of their belongings, a senior officer would have a hanging bed, something like a porch swing. It would move with the rolling of the ship, but he could stretch out safely.