What is a Waterman in Occupational Terms?

 

Great writing on what a waterman is as an occupational term from Shawn Alladio the founder of K38 Rescue Water Craft Services

Terminology is precision in language as the proper use of words. When using Waterman as an occupational term you are speaking our language!

Our (your) maritime heritage is centuries old, and this word begins in the 1100’s of England. If you know someone with the surname ‘Waterman’ you will understand.

A waterman was a boatman livery guide for transportation and lighterage.

In Medieval times, waterman formed gangs, or what we call unions or guilds. Some joined the Navy, others became pirates; merchant marines and stevedores.

They began apprenticeships to learn the water features and hazards because they were being taxed for their navigational skill.

Travel and moving freight were faster on water and their skills broadened with helmsman, pilotage and moorage.

Wherrymen (named for their boat) were subject to paying duties, they were required to have a license and were scrutinized for accidents.

Watermen enforced rules.

They suffered changes in travel.

They sought better pay.

They formed a Company of Watermen and Lightermen.

The filed for Acts on their behalf for support and protection.

They suffered death from occupational risk by drowning, respiratory and skin infections.

They became lifesavers by rescuing people and animals.

Our boating laws began in England and were brought here during the American Colonial period, we use many of these rules and laws in our courtroom today and on the water but sadly few even understand this. Even worse, instructors who teach do not know.

On the US east coast watermen pull up lobsters and in the Gulf they shrimp and tug. These Coxswains are our reminder of who we are today ‘boat servant’.

‘All whirry men, and all maryners vpo the see, shall leape out of their boates, and set them selues vpon the lode. - Book of Ezekiel

Do not be deceived, study and know our history.

Our ancestors died and struggled for the luxury we enjoy this day.

Onward.