In October 1851, the bustling harbors of Gloucester, Massachusetts marked the onset of a promising venture as the American fishing fleet set sail towards the bountiful mackerel run in the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence. However, as they neared the waters off Prince Edward Island, Canada, an unanticipated hurricane engulfed them in a tempest of terror and despair, obliterating over 200 schooners and vessels. The calamity claimed the lives of over 100 seamen, a tragic toll that resonated across the waves.Disasters at Sea unveils the poignant yet inspiring chronicle of the Prince Edward Island residents, who, propelled by compassion, rallied to extend a lifeline to the beleaguered seamen. Their unwavering aid echoed the noble deeds of the Newfoundland residents during the 9/11 crisis. With hearts brimming with empathy, they embarked on a mission of rescue, recovery, and honor for the fallen, manifesting an enduring maritime bond.This narrative reflects on the ethos of neighborly duty prevalent in the 19th-century Maritime Canada, highlighting a stark contrast against the seemingly indifferent response of the vessel owners in the aftermath, who appeared to evade accountability for the lost souls and shattered vessels. Disasters at Sea navigates through the haunting whys of fate's discernment amidst the storm, unearthing the profound human spirit that surges even amidst the darkest squalls, painting a timeless tableau of maritime valor and human resilience.

James W. Macnutt has been a practising lawyer for over 54 years and was honoured with a K.C. appointment in 1989. He continues in his full-time practice of law with the law firm of Cox & Palmer having offices in each of the four Canadian Atlantic provinces.

Mr. Macnutt has written extensively on Canadian architectural, legal and parliamentary history as presented in numerous journal articles and in twelve major publications in book form. He is concentrating now on creative writing in the fictionalized history genre of which the stories in this volume are part. He continues to write and has four new manuscripts in draft form which will be published in due time.

Married with two children, Mr. Macnutt has four grandchildren, two girls and two boys who collectively prevent complacency and indolence.