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Joseph Johnson - crippled sailor begging
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Joseph Johnson - crippled sailor begging
Joseph Johnson or Black Joe, wounded veteran merchant seaman, wearing his Nelson ship hat. He earned his living as a Regular Chaunter singing songs such as Storm and The British Seamans Praise
1815
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Media ID 23043378
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1815 Beggar Beggars Begging Community Crippled Johnson Merchant Nelson Sailor Sailors Seaman Veteran Racial
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This poignant image captures the moment of a crippled and weary Joseph Johnson, also known as Black Joe, a wounded veteran merchant seaman, as he humbly begs for alms in the bustling port community of the early 19th century. Dressed in the distinctive Nelson ship hat, a symbol of his seafaring past, Joseph's expression conveys a deep sense of sadness and resilience. Joseph, who was likely of African descent, earned his living as a Regular Chaunter, singing sea shanties and ballads such as "Storm" and "The British Sailor's Praise" to entertain and raise funds from the sailors and merchants who passed through the port. Despite his injuries and the hardships he faced, Joseph's spirit remained unbroken, and he continued to find solace and connection through his music and community. This photograph, taken in 1815, offers a glimpse into the lives of sailors and mariners during this period, highlighting the racial and social complexities of the time. The image also underscores the importance of music and community in the lives of these men, who spent long periods of time at sea and relied on each other for support and camaraderie. Joseph's story is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and struggles faced by sailors and veterans during this era, and the enduring power of music and community to provide comfort and hope in times of need.
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