Memoir of Nathaniel Bowditch

The memoir captures the life and achievements of Nathaniel Bowditch, a self-taught mathematician from Salem, Massachusetts, renowned as the father of modern maritime navigation. His groundbreaking work, American Practical Navigator, revolutionized celestial navigation and remains a vital resource for mariners. Following his death in 1838, his son honored his legacy by sharing his father's story with students in Boston, leading to the publication of these recollections in 1841. The memoir highlights Bowditch's profound impact on navigation and education.