The process of transcribing historical documents has often been refered to an art as much as a science. Documents were kept by hand and handwriting then, as now, is often hard to read. In addition, spelling is not consistant. Often individuals had no idea how their own names were spelled and document keepers guessed. In addition the spelling of names has changed over time and what appears incorrect now would have been correct at the time the documents were official. Foreign names added additional complexities.

All possible attempts were made in the process of transcribing these crewlists to record the correct name. Guesses, however have been made. When available, additional documents were consulted including the crew lists transcribed by the New Bedford Public Library and those recorded in John Leavitt’s book, “The Charles W. Morgan”.