Long Island played a major role in the development of whaling in the Americas, starting with Native Americans along the south shore. This developed into chartered whaling companies and established whale fisheries that sent ships around the world in pursuit of financial gain.
Sag Harbor was the home of one such port, playing host to ships funded and, for Long Island played a major role in the development of whaling in the Americas, starting with Native Americans along the south shore.
This developed into chartered whaling companies and established whale fisheries that sent ships around the world in pursuit of financial gain. the large part, crewed by the families of the East End.
Historian and musician Stephen Sanfilippo has made a special study of the whaling history of Long Island and Sag Harbor, researching and performing the songs sung by the men aboard ship. He found evidence for many of these songs by reading and comparing the diaries kept during the voyages.
Recorded within these personal pages were the lyrics to many shanties, ditties, and ballads heard while under sail. On today’s episode, Stephen relates (and sings) his discoveries while also discussing the challenges they present for performers and historians.
Stephen Sanfilippo is the special guest on the latest episode of the Long Island History Project.
You can listen the episode here.
The Long Island History Project is an independent podcast featuring stories and interviews with people passionate about Long Island history. It is hosted by academic librarian Chris Kretz.
Read more about Whaling History in New York State.
Illustration: “An Old Whaler” from The Century Magazine, 1890.
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