Pirates in pursuit of a merchant vessel
Captain Kidd takes a smoke on the deck of the Adventure
Carpenter / Surgeon
A surgeon was a rare catch on any ship, and in practice it was usually the ships carpenter who performed this duty, because he was the only one with the tools of the trade, namely a saw for performing amputations. The boatswain was on hand with a red-hot axe to cauterize the wounds, and the sail maker would do the suturing.
The carpenter was responsible for keeping the ships hull and mast sound. In the heat of battle, he and his team would shore up leaks and patch holes. After an empty ship has been captured, the carpenter performed a speed inspection before deciding whether the prize was seaworthy
The Bounty sailing in the Pacific
Cooper
Since food, drink, and many other supplies such as lamp oil and gunpowder were stored in wooden barrels, the skill of barrel making was vital to the wellbeing of the crew. His vigilance ensured that the barrels were kept as air- or water-tight as possible. To save space, barrels were assembled and dismantled as required.
Walter Mattew and Cris Carpenter in Pirates
Boatswain
The daily maintenance and inventory of ships supplies, from tar and tallow to sails and tackle, was managed by the boatswain. He was the most experienced sailor on board, and his expert knowledge of the rigging and sails meant the difference between life and death.
Master Gunner
The master gunner maintained the ships cannons and ensured that the gunpowder was kept safe and dry. He trained the teams of men who operated the cannons and kept them battle ready.
A pirate smoking a pipe
Cook
This position was often taken by a member of the crew who had gained a severe battle injury that prevented him from performing other more demanding duties. Preparing palatable meals when the ships food quickly became rotten within a few weeks into a voyage was a tough challenge.
Walter Matthew as a pirate captain
Musicians
Anyone who could play an instrument was a valuable member of the crew. Musical entertainment was important to boos morale and to relieve boredom. Jigs and nautical shanties were well-liked and loud martial music was played during battleCarpenter, J.R. (2006), Pirates, Scourge of the Seas, pgs 46-47;
Barnes & Noble [Gusto:China]
