Whaleship Essex Quiz

How many sails does the Whaleship Essex have in total according to the Sail Plan, and what is the name of the foremost sail of the ship?

• 10 sails, called the main jib

• 12 sails, called the flying jib

• 14 sails, called the topgallant sail

• 8 sails, called the spanker

How many boats are mentioned as being attached to the deck of the Whaleship Essex, including those that are not immediately apparent?

• 2 boats

• 4 boats

• 6 boats

• 8 boats

Which type of whale was primarily sought after for its blubber and oil in the 19th century?

• Blue whale

• Sperm whale

• Humpback whale

• Gray whale

What did the crew of the Dauphin discover when they found the remnants of the Whaleship Essex in 1821?

• A deserted ship with no signs of life

• A 25 foot whale boat with additional masts and human bones inside

• A fully intact ship with all crew accounted for

• A shipwreck with treasure on board

What popular literary work was inspired by the events of the Essex?

• The Old Man and the Sea

• Moby Dick

• Treasure Island

• The Sea-Wolf

Whose account of events inspired "In the Heart of the Sea" and why is this version important to history?

• Herman Melville's account, because he was the captain of the Essex

• Owen Chase's account, because it was the only detailed survivor's story

• Thomas Nickerson's account, because it was the only information known about the events for a long time

• Nathaniel Philbrick's account, because he discovered the true story

What was Nantucket known for in the 1800s?

• It was known for its large population.

• It was known for its bustling port and whaling ships.

• It was known for its agricultural produce.

• It was known for its textile industry.

How long was the Essex and why was it considered "lucky"?

• It was 87 feet long and considered lucky because it was the fastest ship.

• It was 87 feet long and considered lucky because it was on the larger side of whaling ships.

• It was 87 feet long and considered lucky because it returned every two years with enough whale oil to fill many barrels.

• It was 87 feet long and considered lucky because it was the most durable ship.

What was the community of Nantucket obsessed with during the period described?

• They were obsessed with fishing.

• They were obsessed with omens and signs.

• They were obsessed with shipbuilding.

• They were obsessed with trading.

What does "Nantucket" mean in the language of the native Wampanoag?

• It means "whaling ground."

• It means "faraway land."

• It means "ocean's blessing."

• It means "ship's haven."