[Sweeden] Revolutionary War POW, Gets Details On Steamer Atlantic Tragedy For Sale

2 pp, 7 ¾ x 9 ¾, November 30th, 1846, Boston SAMUEL A. NEVERS writes to his Uncle Samuel, a Revolutionary War hero, prisoner of war, and the founder of Sweeden, Maine, with a short description of the loss of the Steamer Atlantic, a major tragedy involving a luxury steamer built by Cornelius Vanderbilt.

Nephew Samuel begins by seeking genealogical information about family members. He then pivots to a short description of the Atlantic tragedy, which occurred a few days before this letter was written.

“...The greatest calamity that has befallen the community is the loss of the Steamer Atlantic running between Norwich & New York. Loss of life as far as heard from 32. Saved 37 – 3 young men going from this city in company were drowned. One was to be married that night, on New Year’s night and the other was engaged. Insured in this City – for $70,000. Cost $150,000. I should be happy to have you send that as soon as you please...

“Your affectionate nephew

“Saml A. Nevers

“Son of Eben Nevers”

Fine integral address leaf with faint red postmark, addressed to Sweeden, Me. Toning, folds. Overall excellent condition.

A web-based copy of a newspaper article is included, which includes numerous details of the tragedy.

The Steamer Atlantic’s loss occurred near Fishers Island, New York, three days before this letter was written. The cause was a boiler explosion that crippled her after a violent storm. It was a total loss. The ship was battered by hurricane-force winds for two days. Her anchors dragged and she eventually broke apart on the rocks. Survivors faced immense suffering with some accounts mentioning the looting of victims’ bodies as they washed ashore, adding to the tragedy.

The wreck of the Atlantic highlighted the dangers of early steam travel. It is remembered for the overwhelming loss of life and desperate struggle for survival against the elements.

Revolutionary War hero Samuel Nevers was on a vessel near the end of the war, which was captured by the British Brig “Chatham.” He was imprisoned and impressed into labor on the ship for one year. When it docked in what is now known as Manhattan, he made his escape. After the war, he was given a large tract of land in Maine. In 1794, he arrived in the area known today as Sweeden. He later fought in the War of 1812. Nevers also served as the town’s first surveyor. He built the first roads and bridges and the first sawmill. [Research included]

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