In 1876, John C. Blethen shipped out as mate on the Peru and later made one voyage as her master.
Subsequently he commanded the Columbus for five years (1874-1879 est.), during which time he sailed from New York to San Francisco four times.
He then commanded the America for three years (1879-1881 est.) and the John Currier from 1882 through 1888.
The John Currier, at 235:8 feet, 1848 tons, was launched from Newburyport, Massachusetts in October 1882. Captain Blethen was one of the owners, along with Thayer & Lincoln of Boston and John Currier. The first two voyages of the Currier were between Atlantic ports and San Francisco, then she engaged in trade with China and Japan. She was a troubled ship, with mishaps, fires and a tornado in Hong Kong. She pulled through all and Captain Blethen continued sailing her until he retired in 1888.
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