January 25, 1820 – About 11 A.M. , one of the mates aloft cheered us with the grateful note of “Land ho!” The smiles of joy and glow of animation appeared through our little circle, and at 1 P.M. our eyes were gratified with a full view of the North Eastern part of Terra Del Fuege, stretching along 6 miles or more on our right. This is the first we have seen during three months, since our dear native shores receded from our view. But alas, how unlike our beloved N. England. Here no temples of the living God left their lofty spires to heaven in honor to him who of old laid the foundations of these snow-capt mountains, and weighed their rugged hills in his balance. No joyful sound of the church-going bell invites the wretched inhabitants to the feast of the gospel. – No sun of righteousness softens their icy hearts, while they not only cover themselves with the skins but actually wear the nature of the wild beasts of the forests. When we think of our highly favored country we are ready to exclaim, “We shall never look upon its like again!” But while we have occasion to weep over the wickedness of men who dwell in these dark and dreary wilds and contrast their condition with our countrymen, we remember with grief that even there are many thousands who derive no saving benefits from the gospel, thousands who obey not nor even hear a preached gospel, thousands whose ears are saluted from Sabbath to Sabbath with the sound of the inviting church bell, whose feet never enter the sanctuary of God to worship in his presence, and thousands more who seem to breathe the atmosphere of Christianity, inhale the contagion of death, and labor to obscure the glory and prevent the efficiency of the life-giving doctrines of the cross. But we are comforted with assurance that many thousands there will not stumble nor rest until all our countrymen, and all the inhabitants of America from the northern to this southern extremity, and all the dwellers in the sea shall enjoy the best means of grace and salvation. Is it too much to hope that a stream from that benevolence now rising in the American church will soon roil through South America, carrying health and salvation even to the cold regions of Cape Horn. (Thaddeus Journal)

Jan; 25th. Tuesday afternoon, 2 o’clock. I leave the busy, animated little multitude, to say to my dear sisters, that after no sight of land for thirteen weeks and two days, it now cheers our sight. The bold coast of Terra-de-Fuego presents itself to view; its snow- capt mountains becoming more grand, as we, with great rapidity, draw nearer to them. We have looked forward, with trembling, to these regions, yet when here find more rapid sailing and as apparent security, as in any part of our voyage. I desire that we may rightly notice it. We have still a dangerous coast to pass, before we can be in the smooth waters of the Pacific. And there, may we bear in mind, that we shall need a divine Pilot.
I should love to tell my scholars that they might look on their maps and imagine me entering the Straits of Le- Maire. Dear Girls! I shall want to live in their remembrance. 0, that I might be permitted to hear, from time to time, that one and another had set out for the kingdom of heaven I Might the day come when I should give some one the hand of greeting on heathen shores! ‘ The thought is not new. I have looked round upon them, with similar feelings, when they had been ignorant of what was passing in the mind. 4 o’clock. I have just laid aside my dissertation which I have been set about, this week, to run on deck and see how land looks now. The mountains appear nobly I Looking round for my best friend, and not seeing him at once, I sent my eyes up mast-head and spied him upon the main sail- yard. He has an advantage, in prospect. The day continues very fine. I must go to my work. A regular system has been strenuously recommended to all. It is variously regarded. I will give you some parts of mine. It commences with the hour 6 in the morning, closing with 10, evening. From 9 to 12 logic and theological reading—from 12 to 1 recitation of my class—1 to 2 dinner and exercise—2 to 6 miscellaneous reading, writing, and Owyhee language—from 6 to 8 tea, singing, social intercourse and exercise. I should love to gratify all my many dear friends, with a free perusal of every thing communicated, tho not directed to them individually, but you will find things, occasionally, which I would not have you read. Your own judgment will dictate without my specifying. Assure me you will regard this, and you will have things, Providence giving me the opportunity to write, both little and great, as they interest me. I do desire to improve my time, for soon, should life be spared and our wishes granted, we must make the best use of the little stock of talents which we have. (Sybil Bingham)

January 25. 1820. This morning. 10 Oc., after a voyage of 96 days. we made the island of Tierra-del-Fuego which to the naked eye, appeared like a distant cloud rising above the surface of the water.
It is not easy to describe our feelings at the sight of land once more. Joy hung upon every countenance, while each heart seemed to palpitate with peculiar emotions. (Lucia Ruggles Holman)

Jan. 25th, 12 o’clock. After sailing 95 days without seeing land, we this morning at 10 o’clock with joyful eyes and hearts discovered the Island of Terra del Fuego, about ten leagues ahead. Though it had more the appearance of a cloud than land yet the bare thought that it was land gave us pleasing sensations. Joy ran through my bosom, and for a moment I almost forgot that I was seasick. I have not enjoyed health for a single moment since I came on board the Thaddeus, nor do I expect to until I reach Owhyhee (Hawaii), but I would be far from complaining.
The Lord lays his hand gently upon me and I will rejoice that I may suffer for his sake, I feel as I did before I left America, an increasing desire to spend my life in a remote corner of the globe, and wear out in the cause of my dear Redeemer. I am interrupted by the appearance of a large whale alongside. 2 o’clock M. The land appears in ful view before us not more than 6 or 8 imiles distant. We are sailing along its N. E. coast in pursuit of the straits Le Maire thro’ which we hope to pass if successful in finding them. Terra del Fuego is the most uneven country I ever saw. It appears to be little less than a continued, map of barren hills, and lofty ragged mountains, some of whose tops reach above the clouds, and are white with perpetual snows. It is indeed a dreary land. In this bleak region mariners always expect roughest weather but we are highly favored and have been for several days past. To-day it is uncommonly pleasant; not very cold and a fine breeze wafts us 7 knots or miles an hour.
Dear friends unite with us in blessing him whose power controls the raging wind, and says peace be still. -5 o’clock P. M. The strait begins to open before us, and we have a fair prospect of a pleasant passage through. Should the present wind continue we shall probably see O. H. to-morrow. – Who knows but we shall be wafted directly around the long dreaded cape without experiencing any storms; but perhaps such a passage was never known. We have a safe Pilot an Almighty guide who stands at our helm, he can do all things.
5 o’clock. Staten land to the E. of us, is if possible more uneven than Terra del Fuego. The mountains rise one above another in a great number of sharp and lofty peaks, some in the form of pyramids and some in the form of a sugar loaf. In the sides of some appear vast holes, which probably are the effect of volcanic eruptions.’
Now near cape St. Diego at the N. W. entrance of the strait. Few ships pass through here as it is considered dangerous; the passage narrow [15-miles in width] and both shores lined, with solid rock. But as we have a fair wind Capt. B. thinks it better to attempt a passage through, than sail around Staten land which would be 200 miles farther. – We have entered the mouth of the strait but as it is almost night and finding a very strong current sitting in against us, we shall lie to for the night. Farewell dear friends till morning. May the God of Isreal bless you and give you repose; May he be mindful of us also and be our refuge and sage defence. (Samuel & Nancy Ruggles)

Jan. 25, 1820.-After having been out ninety-four days, and witnessing nothing but floating barques like our own, some monsters of the deep, the expansive ocean and the wide-spread heavens, I can not describe to you the joyful emotions which the sight of land has this day produced. We have a fair view of Terra del Fuego on the right, and Staten Land on the left. The Captain has this evening heaved to, viewing it as dangerous passing the straight in the night, from the liability of meeting ~ gale in this tempestuous region. (Lucy Goodale Thurston)

Jan. 25th. Ninety-four days from Boston. This morning our ears were saluted with the cry, “land ho.” It proved to be the Island of Terra del Fuego. This island has but little appearance of verdure. It seems to be mostly made up of sand-banks and rocky mountains, whose tops are covered with snow. One would hardly think it possible for human beings to dwell in so dreary and solitary a place. Could you but cast one look at this heathen land, where wretchedness takes up her abode, and them reflect upon the happiness of civilized society, methinks you would joyfully say, “Go my dear children, go, proclaim, Salvation through Emmanuel’s name: To distant Isles the tidings bear, And plant the Rose of Sharon there.” We are about to enter the straits of Le Maire which separates Staten Land from Terra del Fuego, and as Capt. B. has never yet been through it is thought advisable to lie too for the night. (Mercy Partridge Whitney Journal)

25. – This morning were saluted by the joyful sound of ‘land ho!’ It was that inhospitable island of Terra Del Fuego – Three months have now relapsed since we placed our feet on the solid earth. We had been tossed and rolled about till our limbs were weary with shaking, & our eyes satiated with beholding tempests. My pleasure would be much increased could I go on shore & refresh a little. As we draw near, there are some appearances of verdant spots, but we can see little except mountains covered with forests & huge masses of rocks whose hoaty tops are covered with snow although it is now midsummer. (Samuel Whitney Journal)

Follow Peter T Young on Facebook 

Follow Peter T Young on Google+ 

Follow Peter T Young on LinkedIn  

Follow Peter T Young on Blogger

© 2020 Hoʻokuleana LLC

January 27, 1820 – 10 o’clock. A.M. – With a fine morning, and a fair breeze which sprang up soon after last evening sacrifice, we find ourselves delivered from the dangers of Le Maire and rapidly and pleasantly advancing toward our turning point, the place of hope and fear. (One o’clock) While at the rate of 8 knots an hour, the Brig serenely cuts her way, the long looked for cape rises full in view and all our hearts leap for joy. But in the midst of congratulations, which we gratefully acknowledge that our times and seasons are at the disposal of an allwise providence, it becomes us to rejoice with trembling lest we should not sufficiently glorify God. (2 o’clock, P.M.) The wind rises – dark clouds hover round. – the approach of a whirlwind is announced – all hands are ordered on deck – the sails are filled, – the dead lights in, – the companion way closed, and we are imprisoned below deck, – For a moment our Heavenly Father seems to hold the rod over us. (1/2 past 2 P.M.) The wind subsides – a gentle rain descends, – and light breaks in again. We know that he who made Cape Horn, and placed it as a waymark which the tempests of 60 centuries have not been able to remove can conduct us around it in safety. – nor shall whirlwinds nor storms prevent us from erecting upon it, in the name Jehovah, the “Rock of our Help,” the Ebanezer of the Owhyhean Mission. (3 o’clock, P.M.) The wind rises again, – All hands are called. The waves lift themselves up. – and our little trembling, tottering bark with its invaluable freight, yields to the opposing currents and lightly bends her course towards the South. (4 o’clock, P.M.) The sun breaks out in the clear western sky, while the dark tempest, passing off to the East, bears down upon the waters of the Atlantic, and leaves us running briskly South, and the cape gradually sinks behind a pleasant sea. – (6 o’clock, P.M.) A stiff breeze and heavy sea from the west. (1/2 past 6) The sun shuts in behind the cloud. A squall approaches. (7 o’clock, P.M.) The sun breaks out again and smiles. Thus rapid are our changes. Thus transitory are our scenes, and thus fluctuating the joys and sorrows of mortal life. (Thaddeus Journal)

27th. Early in the morning. We now find ourselves clear of the dangerous shoals and rocks of Terra del Fuego and Staten land, and sail 5 knots an hour, in a direct course towards C. H. The Lord has been our deliverer hitherto, we will bless his name, and still trust him.
12 o-clock. See cape H. about 8 leagues to the N. W.; 9 or 8 knots an hour, and the sea is so smooth that we can scarcely perceive the Brig to move. This is rarely the case in this region of storms. How long it will continue thus, is known only to him who is able to make the wind the sea obey him. – I have taken a Northwesterly view of Cape Horn which is said to be correct, I intend to send a copy; also a view of the strait of Le Maire, Both of them are just representations. Perhaps they may gratify American friends. 2 o-clock P. M.
Bow suddenly is our situation changed a few moments since all was peace and. we were sailing as pleasantly as at any time since we left America; Now. all is confusion, ‘a hailstorm is rising, all hands are summoned on deck to take in sail, one cries out from Masthead “a whirlwind” what the Lord is about to do with us we know not; one thing we do know, and this shall comfort us in every trial and danger; He loves his own cause, and if he has any work assigned in Owhyhee (Hawaii), he will be our refuge and our Salvation. 5 o-clock. The storm was terrible but it is now over. The whirlwind passed a few rods from us, but did not affect us. The wind is a head the waves run very high and a strong current takes us back to the E. 4 miles an hour. 1 o-clock lost sight of C. Horn by being carried so far to the east. (Samuel & Nancy Ruggles)

Jan. 27th. Thursday morning finds us favored of the Lord. What shall we render unto his name I I did think, beloved sisters, yesterday, two o’clock, as I came down from deck, if GOD would send us favorable winds and take us out from these dark mountains, where black clouds gathered on all sides, I should praise his name, and feel under renewed obligations to be careful for nothing, but by prayer and supplication, with, thanksgiving, to make known my requests unto the Lord. We are safely out of the Straits of Le-Maire, leaving these two islands, like little specks, sinking away in the dim horizon.
We go with speed, in a direct course, towards the Cape, while the sea is so smooth, that we can walk, sew or write, with no more inconvenience than if on land.
A little circumstance, which I have not mentioned, interested us, yesterday. A smoke was discovered rising from the beach, and by the aid of the glass, two men were seen kindling a fire. What their condition was we knew not, but could not avoid thinking the smoke might be intended as a signal of distress, on that desolate shore. But we could not reach them had we attempted it. The vessel, in some favourable moments, would make her way to them, then by the current, be driven far back again, at which times, it appeared as if they renewed their smoke; but we could only hope they were natives.
If they were some poor ship-wrecked mariners—my heart is cold at the thought!
11 o’clock. A huge whale has just come sporting around the vessel. The little multitude was at once on deck, but Mr. B— and I busy in our little room, did not go till we heard Capt. B—’s voice calling us. The view of the monster rewarded us for laying down our books. But a still more interesting view increased the animation of each countenance, as our Capt., pointing off in the course whither we were rapidly going, says, “There is Cape Horn!” then looking up on his full spread sails, adds, “I never passed this region in this manner.”
2 o’clock. A cloud arises, carrying darkness and terror in its aspect. The sails are all ordered to be furled, the passengers down, the dead lights in and the companion-way shut. A few moments since the sun shone, and joy was in every countenance. Well, I hope composure is still in most hearts, for tho “the sea is dark and deep—the Pilot’s sure”. (Sybil Bingham)

Jan. 27.-Yesterday (January 26, 1820) we entered the Strait of Le Marie, fifteen miles wide. The scene before us was interesting and sublime. On either side was a long continued range of mountains. The tops of some were covered with snow, while others reached to the clouds. There the naked eye could discover forests, trees, grass and sandbanks. But what interested my feelings most of all was the discovery of a smoke on the island of Terra del Fuego. Through spy-glasses two men could be discovered near it. Whether they were natives or shipwrecked mariners we knew not, nor could it be ascertained without much labor and danger. (Lucy Goodale Thurston)

Jan. 27. I wish my dear parents knew how contented and thankful we are for the smiles of an indulgent providence. Yesterday morning the enter the Straits of Le Maire with a good breeze which carried us about halfway through when we were suddenly becalmed and continued near the same place except the current from the Pacific rather drove us back until about 9 o’clock in the evening, when we were again blessed with favorable winds. Lying as we were between two islands we were exposed to danger, liable to be driven against them on either side, and swallowed up by the devouring element. Well may we say, had not the Lord been on our side, we might have perished. But His Almighty arm has been extended for our deliverance and safety. Since about 9 o’clock our progress has been rapid, and we have almost lost sight of the islands before mentioned. Two or three others have this morning been discovered farther south. In this region, where we expected boisterous weather and rough sailing, we are so far agreeably disappointed. The vessel slides along smoothly and gently we have seen nothing of the snow and hail storm spoken of by many. Captain B says, he never before witnessed so smooth that time in this place we have known. We have no occasion to distrust our covenant god, who is safely conducting us on our passage and who we trust well in his arm due time in his own du time land us at our desired haven.
1 o’clock. Almost every hour of this day brings with it some important event. Between eleven and twelve, we were on deck gazing at the large at a large whale, which came spouting around the vessel, when someone observed they saw Cape Horn. It however proved to be mistaken cape. Though our passage should thus far has been prospered beyond our expectations, we must expect some rough and unpleasant weather before we have doubled the cape. Even while I am writing I hear Capt B’s voice ordering his men to take down sales for we are threatened with a storm. (Mercy Partridge Whitney Journal)

27. – We left the straits this morning with a fine breeze from the north. At 12 major land (or rather rocks) again, suppose that first to be Cape Horn, but prove to be what is called Mistaken Cape. At 2 a squall struck us accompanied by a severe gale. We are now laying too, & it is uncertain when we double the Cape. In this ‘patria nimbornum’ (country of winds) ships are sometimes driven about 6 or 8 weeks before they can get safely round. (Samuel Whitney Journal)

January 27, 1820, 10 o’clock P.M. – At 8 this evening while our vessel was tossing upon the rising billows, her sails close furled, her decks washed with a heavy spray continually breaking over, and while a strong west wind from it roared through her rigging drifted her towards the South East, we assembled, as usual for evening prayers, read the 46th Psalm, and sung the 83rd hymn of the Select., acknowledged the good hand of our God upon us in his past undeserved favors, endeavored to lay ourselves peacefully at the feet of divine soverignty, and to implore the kind protection, the sure guidance, and the continued presence and blessing of his whose unfailing goodness constrained us unitedly and devoutly and joyfully to say “Hitherto hath the Lord helped us.” (Closed this interview with the 84th Select. H. Hothen). Though even now his waves and his billows are going over us we have great cause for gratitude that we are now so far from land as to be comparatively free from danger. This gale, had it been commissioned a few hours sooner might have dashed us on the rocks of Staten Land. But the Captain of our Salvation is our pilot, and we will not fear. “The Lord of Hosts is with us, the God of Jacob is our Refuge.” (Thaddeus Journal)

Follow Peter T Young on Facebook 

Follow Peter T Young on Google+ 

Follow Peter T Young on LinkedIn  

Follow Peter T Young on Blogger

© 2020 Hoʻokuleana LLC