We focus on an individual who coincidentally shares a name with one of our Founding Fathers. Benjamin Franklin Pierce was one of the crew members aboard the Ship John Howland. Benjamin’s role was the second mate during the ship’s voyage. According to his very own log on Sunday, November 28th, 1862, the John Howland entered Bellenas Bay along the lower coast of California. The John Howland spent a good few months in the area and it was in February that tragedy struck. On February 23rd, 1863, the ship had sighted a whale and followed their general procedure. Sadly during the chase, Benjamin lost his life to the whale at the age of 29. After his passing, a cenotaph was dedicated in his name that hangs in the Seamen’s Bethel to this day. Along with this, a grave is marked for him in the family plot in Rural Cemetery. We are reminded with each tale that both the whaling and fishing industry almost always come with a price and to respect all those involved.
Benjamin Franklin
