Description
The first English edition of Cook’s rare c.18th engraved chart of the Friendly Islands (Tongan group). Cook visited the islands 2 – 8 October 1773 and then again 26 – 29 June 1774, after which the ships became separated and were never to meet again.
After leaving Raiatea (Society Islands) on 18 September 1773, Cook directed his course towards Amsterdam Island (Tongatapu), discovered by Tasman in 1643, intending to verify Tasman’s charting against his own charts. The ships stayed for three days, thoroughly enjoying the reception they had received and called the group the Friendly Islands. On his second visit he headed for the Nomuka, the largest island of the south central group of Tonga.
From Cook’s, A Voyage Towards the South Pole, and Round the World, performed in His Majesty’s Ships the ‘Resolution’ and ‘Adventure’, In the Years 1772, 1773, 1774, and 1775.
References:
Beddie, M. Bibliography of Captain James Cook, RN,FRS, Circumnavigator. Sydney 1970 1216.
Hill, J. The Hill Collection of Pacific Voyages. San Diego 1974 358.
Sabin, J. A Dictionary of Books Relating to America, from its Discovery to the Present Time. New York. (1936) 1967. 16245.
Collections:
National Library Australia: Bib ID 90039
State Library New South Wales: M2 928/1774/1
Art Gallery New South Wales: Accession number 207.1990.3.a-kkk
