Object Number: 2019.16.1-10
While men were working in the whaling industry they wanted to earn as much money as possible while away. Employees had the option to work overtime, and most took the opportunity where they could. These books were kept to record the hours of overtime worked, and this would be added on to the final pay. Pay was calculated based on your wage bracket, with extra bonuses and overtimes being added on after the season was over. Bonuses were calculated based on the whale catch numbers, so the overall catch benefited everyone.
Before whalers left their home country they knew what their job would be for the season. Often those arriving for their first season of work would be employed in the mess. The number of jobs that one station needed to function and be self-sufficient is evident in the jobs outlined within the overtime book box. Not only were tradespeople required to ensure broken parts and buildings could be repaired. Men were also employed to take care of those working on station. This included people working in the laundry and mess, as well as bakers. Self-sufficiency was vital to keep every part of the process running smoothly, as supplies to the island was limited.