America's First Whaling Industry and the Whaler Yeomen of Cape May

"America's First Whaling Industry and the Whaler Yeomen of Cape May" offers a comprehensive analysis of the beginnings of the whaling industry in the United States, which originated in Delaware Bay. The book highlights the role of Cape May and the local whalers who became active in the 1680s and 1690s. It illustrates how whaling not only contributed to the economic prosperity of the region but also led to the establishment of influential family dynasties that endured for generations. Through the trade of whale oil, blubber, and baleen, these families were able to expand their wealth and develop a diverse economy that extended beyond whaling. The book provides a deep insight into the social and economic structures of the time and demonstrates how the people of Cape May actively participated in colonial trade, resulting in a dynamic and thriving community.