The Dollop with Dave Anthony and Gareth Reynolds 629 - Seaman Daniel Collins
Apr 16, 2024
Comedians explore Seaman Daniel Collins' journey on The Betsey, facing a life-threatening shipwreck and encountering mysterious headless bodies. They discuss his early years joining the Navy during the War of 1812 and surviving a chase through a mangrove swamp. The narrative includes encounters with Spaniard pirates, a tense atmosphere aboard the ship, and a dramatic confrontation with the crew.
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Daniel Collins: Boy Soldier
- Daniel Collins, born in Wiscasset, Maine, joined the Navy between ages 11 and 13 during the War of 1812.
- His father, also a boy soldier, made ship pulleys, and his grandfather was a mariner.
Wiscasset Under Threat
- The US Navy had only a dozen functioning ships in the War of 1812 compared to the British Navy's 500.
- Wiscasset, a lumber port, faced a British blockade and invasion threat, prompting a 2000-man militia.
The Betsy's Ill-Fated Voyage
- In 1824, Daniel joined the merchant marine, serving on the Betsy, an 80-foot brig hauling lumber.
- On the voyage to Matanzas, Cuba, the captain fell ill and ignored Daniel's advice to shorten sail in rough waters.