I was fortunate to receive some valuable answers the last time I posted a question in this forum, so I thought I'd try my luck again.
I'm embarking on a new project, a fictional account of a brig returning from England to its home port in Rhode Island in the 1760s. I have the story itself worked out. But I've run aground on the details. The truth is, I have very little nautical knowledge, especially as it relates to the mid-18th century.
I'm wondering if anyone here can recommend books or any other source material that I might use to familiarize myself with life at sea during the 1760s or thereabouts. I'm interested to know the layout of such a ship (brig), nautical terminology of the day, the crew's duties, the daily routine of sailing and tasks involved, that sort of thing. I value historical authenticity, so I'm willing to put in the research time.
I'm hoping someone here can point me in the right direction.
Thanks.