The fathom
A fathom is a nautical unit of measurement equal to 6 feet (1.8288 m), historically used for measuring the depth of water. The word derives, via the Middle English word fathme, from the Old English word fæðm, which is cognate with the Danish word favn, meaning a ‘pair of outstretched arms’. A burial at sea officially requires a minimum of six fathoms of water, probably being the origin of the phrase ‘to deep six’ as meaning to discard, or dispose of something. The phrase is echoed in Shakespeare’s The Tempest, where Ariel tells Ferdinand, ‘Full fathom five thy father lies’, which means his body is lost deep at sea.
Henry Jennings was an unusual pirate, being a wealthy landowner with estates in both Bermuda and Jamaica. His family were well established on Bermuda, living in Flatts Village in the Hamilton Parish of the island. Little is known of his early life except that he was a privateer during 
Whether you’re a Master, Commander or Pirate of the Caribbean, this is the vessel for you. From the earliest canoes to today’s sophisticated ocean-going giants, Christopher Columbus to Ellen MacArthur, witness the drama, the splendour and excitement of Ship’s story above and below the waves, through centuries of exploration, endeavour and conflict. Produced in association with the National Maritime Museum.