15 June 1721 – Spanish Town, Jamaica Anne Bonny lifted her head off the slouch hat that covered a rock which acted as her pillow. It was raining and her side of the prison was dripping water on her. Slowly and awkwardly, she managed to get her heavily pregnant body standing, grabbing the hat as she went. She hobbled, her leg chains clanking, to the other side which was, for the moment, dry. The dirt and sand floor would get wet eventually and seep over if it rained enough. For now, however, it was the better spot. She began to sob, knowing that this babe, like the one born in…

21 June 1721 – Thousand Oaks Plantation Near Charles Town, South Carolina They spent the night in Charles Town and reached the plantation the next day. Anne stayed in bed for a week, regaining her strength. As time passed, she got stronger: walking, riding, swearing and regaining her defiance, although she didn’t understand why this place brought out the worst in her. One day, her father called her into his study. “Anne, I see you’re back in good health.” Anne nodded.  “It’s time for you to move on. I have found a husband suitable to me and, I think, to you as well. His name is Joseph Burleigh and he…

22-25 June 1721 – Hampton, Virginia Anne and Joseph were married by the vicar promptly at seven o’clock in the morning. The ceremony was witnessed only by the vicar’s wife and Anne’s father. Anne wore a simple white bodice over her shift and a skirt embroidered lovingly by Sarah with blue lines representing waves at sea. Joseph wore the same coat and breeches he had on the night before. After they said the vows, Joseph put a small gold band on her left hand. She felt like it was choking her whole hand bloodless. Then she realized, at least he’s given me a ring. James Bonny had married her without…

26 June 1721 – Hampton, Virginia Joseph drove the wagon from the stable to the boarding house as soon as they had finished an early breakfast. Anne waited on the front step with the trunks and valise. In a small canvas bag, she had packed some food and cider for the road. Joseph estimated it would take them a day to get to the plantation. She wore a loose, shortened gown over her shift and petticoat without stays or corset. Might as well be comfortable, she told herself. Women clothes be damned if I don’t have to. After the porters helped Joseph lift the trunks onto the wagon, which had…