Providence Harbor - Taken from the Grounds of Geo. W.Rhodes, Endicot - Library of Congress
Edward Jew was born in Rhoad Island and first shipped when he was about 15 years old. He worked for 30 years on both sail and steam ships for the merchant trade. He was married to Jane Jew, who resided in South Brooklyn when he entered Sailors Snug Harbor in 1858. Edwards’ last residence before he entered Sailors Snug Harbor was on Monroe Street in New York.
The Rigging House, Robinson - Library of Congress.
Edward was a sailor and rigger by trade, and spent 10 years working on shore as a rigger (Edward Jew Registration Page). The work done by the rigger was to make all the lines and ropes on a vessel that supported the masts and raised the sails. The rigger would work from plans or dimensions supplied by the ship designer and worked in a loft while the ship was being built. Up until 1850, natural fibers such as hemp and manila were used; after 1850, wire rope and chain were used (Mystic Seaport).
The Riggers' Loft - Mystic Seaport
The last ship that Edward would sail on was Empire City, a steamship on which he was second mate. Edward would enter Sailors Snug Harbor on December 13, 1858. Edward Jew would remain at the Harbor for 14 years, dying at 72 years old. Edward Jew is buried in Plot 1 of Sailors Snug Harbor Cemetery; see Cemetery Map.