Glossary
BETHEL (noun) a chapel, often used in conjunction with sailors. Referenced on The Underground Railroad: New Bedford
BROTHEL (noun) a building in which prostitutes are available
BUZZARDS BAY (proper noun) an inlet of the Atlantic Ocean, west of Cape Cod. Referenced on Introduction
CORDAGE (noun) ropes or cords, especially for the rigging of ships. Referenced on 1850s: Whaling Capital of the World
JACK TAR (proper noun) colloquial term for sailor.
OUTFITTING (noun) the act of equipping for a voyage
QUAKERS (proper noun) a Christian sect, known for its emphasis on "Inner Light," rejection of sacraments and ordained ministry, and opposition of war. Also known as Friends. Referenced on Introduction, The Whaling City.
SELECTMAN (noun) a member of a board of officials elected in New England towns to serve as the chief administrative authority of the town Referenced on The Ark
SPERMACETI (noun) a solid contained from the oil of cetaceans. Found inside a closed cavity in the heads of sperm whales, this oil used in cosmetic and candles. Referenced on 1850s: Whaling Capital of the World
UNDERGROUND RAILROAD (proper noun) a system of cooperation among active antislavery people in the United States by which fugitive slaves were secretly helped to reach the North or Canada. Referenced on The Underground Railroad: New Bedford
​WHALER, WHALEMAN (noun) a person who hunts for whalers.