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Manuscript version of 'The Journal of Llewellin Penrose' by William Williams (1727-1791) painter and author.
"The Journal of Llewellin Penrose", by William Williams. Manuscript version of William's fictional life of Penrose, a mariner exiled in the Americas. Contains 36 illustrations, many by Nicholas Pocock. Bound at the front of the volume are a letter from Williams' friend Benjamin West, as well as a copy of Williams' will.
Administrative / biographical background
Mr Penrose: The Journal of Penrose, Seaman was published in 1815 and the original text not published until 1969. The fiction includes detail of the flora and fauna of Nicaragua, where Llewellin Penrose was shipwrecked; following an account of life-threatening adventures including one character hunting for a killer whale in a bark canoe with only a small harpoon. This novel is considered by many to be the first American novel. Williams is believed to have been a mariner during his early life. During this time he became acquainted with William Falconer, and became is friend and shipmate. Williams' novel is believed to be partly autobiographical, about a sailor who is cast away in the New World.
Administrative / biographical background
Mr Penrose: The Journal of Penrose, Seaman was published in 1815 and the original text not published until 1969. The fiction includes detail of the flora and fauna of Nicaragua, where Llewellin Penrose was shipwrecked; following an account of life-threatening adventures including one character hunting for a killer whale in a bark canoe with only a small harpoon. This novel is considered by many to be the first American novel. Williams is believed to have been a mariner during his early life. During this time he became acquainted with William Falconer, and became is friend and shipmate. Williams' novel is believed to be partly autobiographical, about a sailor who is cast away in the New World.
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Record Details
| Item reference: | LIT/11; REG06/000413.5 |
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| Catalogue Section: | Manuscript volumes acquired singly by the Museum |
| Level: | ITEM |
| Extent: | 1 volume |
| Date made: | 1815 |
| Creator: | Williams, William; Pocock, Nicholas |
| Credit: | National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London. Purchased with the assistance of the Macpherson Fund, 2006. |
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