This talk is designed to introduce the audience to the subject of the US whale fishery from the 17^th to the early 20^th century through a survey of the different facets of the industry. Mr. Martin discusses historical development,  the purpose of the fishery and  its economic importance, risks associated with whaling, the most important species hunted,  the products of whaling, the whale ships, the crew and life on ship-board,  the hunt, capture and processing of whales, the leisure arts of whale men, and finally the decline and death of the industry in the US.