tredjemænd

Tredjemænd were a class of Danish sailors and fishermen who were employed on board long-distance sailing vessels, typically engaged in the Baltic Sea trade, during the 16th to 18th centuries. They were considered to be of lower social status compared to other members of the ship's crew.

A tredjemand was typically responsible for digging up various items from the ship's hold, such as barrels and casks, during the course of the journey. This laborious task involved shifting heavy loads and reshifting cargo as needed. The tredjemænd often performed other tasks, such as loading and unloading cargo, cleaning the vessel, and helping with repairs.

Tredjemænd were not the primary sailors or navigators of the ship. Their job was to assist the other crew members and take care of various tasks below deck. As a result, they had limited opportunities for advancement and a relatively low standing within the ship's hierarchy.

Historical records suggest that tredjemænd were often Danish nationals, but it is also known that foreign sailors, particularly from Germanic and Scanlonitic regions, were sometimes employed in this capacity. The pay and living conditions of tredjemænd varied depending on their nationality, with Danes typically receiving higher wages than their foreign counterparts.

Tredjemænd played a significant role in maritime trade and commerce, supporting the activities of Danish sailors and fishermen as they traveled to various destinations throughout Scandinavia and Europe. Despite their importance, however, tredjemænd have largely been forgotten in the annals of maritime history.