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The captain's wife who took command

The captain's wife who took command

Tilar J Mazzeo explores one voyage that produced an unlikely maritime legend

Elinor Evans

Published: July 10, 2026 at 1:33 PM

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In the middle of the 19th century, the world's fastest ships raced across oceans carrying cargo, and the fortunes of ambitious young sea captains. In this episode, author Tilar J Mazzeo explores one voyage that produced an unlikely maritime legend.

Speaking to Elinor Evans, Mazzeo shares the remarkable life of Mary Ann Patten, who found herself commanding a clipper ship after her husband fell gravely ill during a perilous passage around Cape Horn.

Authors

Elinor EvansHead of digital (web and video)

Elinor Evans is head of digital (web and video)

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