Research Challenges

The Name Inconstant

Many people ask why Inconstant?

There were 13 Inconstants built 1790 to 1850. 8 of these were merchant ships 5 were British Royal navy ships. So far there is no authoritative answer to why call a ship Inconstant. Below are two inputs from respected researchers:

"Malcolm: Thanks for your message.

I have looked up meanings of "Inconstant" back to the 14th century - all
the same and all bad! (e.g. Spencer: "Inconstant man, that loveth all he
saw and lusteth after all he did not love;" or Keats: "Woman, when I
behold thee, flippant, vain, inconstant&" or Farquhar's play "The
Inconstant" about a shilly-shallier.

I can find no reference to any widely popular work of literature that
might have raised the word above its rather banal use and usual
meaning. I wonder if it could be in reference to sailing ships that
were blown about this way and that by the inconstant wind? Or a
reference to the trading habits of ships that in the late 19th century
were called "tramps," with no pejorative meaning?

I heartily support your idea of putting the challenge on your website.
I'll be watching to see if you catch anything! By the way, I like your
website very much - its not too complicated or spread out, and is very
easy to follow. I hope you will be able to keep it simple, even if it
does get larger and more informative.

With best good wishes,

Tony - Nova Scotia, Canada - June 2001"

"Malcolm,

On the Inconstant name I cannot really add anything further. The
name I suspect had been used on ships since possibly the Elizabethan
Times, may be referring to the inconstant winds or trade, not sure.
Sorry not much help on that one.

Steve - Wellington, New Zealand - August 2001"

Further inputs or a firm explanation of the name use would be very welcome

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Passenger List

Under Construction .............................

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Crew Lists

To date no effort has been made to establish names of the crew of the Inconstant.

The Captain was Patrick Culliton
The Surgeon was Dr Charles Wakins

Any advice of name source or actual names would be very welcome

Please contact

October 2001

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Challenge

We think the conservation of a large [5 tonne] section of a ship in situ on the original beach sand under the building where it was found is unique.

Your advice to the contrary or other general advice on this subject would be welcome.

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