Act of Agreement Broadside. Maritime Document

No Place: No Publisher, 1853. Unbound. Good. Act of Agreement broadside. Single sheet, printed on both sides. Appears dated 1853. Measures roughly 22 by 19 ¾ inches. An agreement between the master and seamen of the ship Meridian, captained by John Manson. With twenty-eight handwritten names of the various crewmembers. Some appear to be in their own hand, although most appear written in the same hand with "his 'x' mark" written in between the first and last names, presumably the marks of those who could not sign their own names. This also provides their stations on board, as well as monthly wages and advance wages paid. Nine crewmembers apparently deserted in Liverpool, England (deserted LP written next to their names) with three others perhaps deserting before setting sail. The Meridian was to leave Boston in July of 1853 and head to St. John, New Brunswick before sailing to Liverpool. Manson captained Meridian from 1851-54 and was from the South Shore area of Massachusetts, perhaps of the Barque Hill community. The ship Meridian built by Jackson and Ewell of East Boston and at 1740 tons was perhaps largest ship then afloat (see the Barque Hill Association website). The agreement outlines the terms to which the Master and seaman agree to work on the boat, including wages, etc. The reverse of this broadside bears 'An act for the Government and Regulation of Seamen in the Merchants Service' originally passed in 1790. Also included below this act is another act 'In Addition to several acts regulating the shipment and discharge of Seamen,' approved on 1840. This side bears a bald eagle emblem at the top center. In GOOD condition. Several horizontal and vertical fold creases present, with five small holes present along the intersection of the center horizontal and vertical fold creases. Several chips and tears present along the extremities, with minor loss. Minor browning to the paper, a bit heavier along the extremities. A few areas with minor foxing, with heavier foxing/browning/staining to the side bearing the printing of the act. Several small ink stains present.