Know the Author: Russell Easterbrooks

Know the Author: Russell Easterbrooks

The History of Mason Barney’s Shipyard and Swansea, Massachusetts brings to life a remarkable piece of early American industry. This Q&A offers readers a closer look at the inspiration behind the book, the research journey, and the fascinating details uncovered about Mason Barney, his shipyard, and the unique token system that shaped everyday life in colonial Swansea. It’s a chance to step into a world where craftsmanship, community, and maritime history all meet.

Interview

ZM: What first inspired you to write this book (The History of Mason Barney's Shipyard), and what kept you motivated through the process?

RE: My late dad was a coin/token collector. He was always interested in Mason Barney's shipyard and the coin that Mason Barney had used to pay some of his shipyard employees. Then these coins could be used to buy goods at Mason's Barney.

The coins were only good at Mason Barney's store.

The search for information kept me motivated.

ZM: When readers finish your book, what’s the one thing you hope stays with them?

RE: It is hoped that the reader will get a view of a large shipyard in a small colonial town like Swansea. As well, the use of a token/coin that was made for the purpose of paying only for goods from the shipyard store.

ZM: What part of the writing process do you enjoy the most — and which part challenges you the most?

RE: The search for information on your topic and getting the information down on paper. The challenging part is getting the most information from good sources and backing it up.

ZM: Was there a moment during your research or writing that surprised you or changed the direction of the book?

RE: Getting interesting side work on your topic. Like shipbuilding, with side parts like, mermaids, cannons on ships, pirates, their flags, Davy Jones' locker, krakens, life on board ship, the use of rope, a ship's anchor, a ship's name, etc.

ZM: What advice would you give new writers who want to publish their first or next book?

RE: Write some articles for some magazines, 300-500 words. Then, when you start your book, put together some of your mag. articles and then branch out with each article for side work, adding interest, with more info. But keep researching your topic, as you will find other facts about the history you seek. Use some Latin to get the reader thinking early on; sapiens erit sapientior, meaning "the wise person will become wiser," etc.

- End

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a maritime buff, or simply curious about the stories tucked away in small New England towns, this book offers a detailed and engaging look at a shipyard that played a surprising role in early American industry. The past leaves clues, and through careful research, those clues come together to tell a story worth remembering.

The History of Mason Barney’s Shipyard and Swansea, Massachusetts is now available on Amazon in eBook, audiobook, paperback, and hardcover editions.

Link - https://amzn.to/4vzlpC6

ZMP

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