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Rejoicing in Hyannis

When the whaling business came to Hyannis, in 1854, the townspeople were thrilled at the prospect of prosperity’s being “just round the corner.” The ship Enterprise, owned by a Nantucket man and several Hyannis men, was fitting out for a whaling voyage to the Pacific.

Despite the fact that this would mean many long months, perhaps years, and the risk of unfruitful hunting for whales, the people took notice of the introduction of the business among them, by firing guns, ringing bells, and general jubilation. The hearts of some mothers and wives must have been sad, as they contemplated parting with their husbands and sons on so long and dangerous an enterprise.

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