Welcome to Jack Coffey's World
A place to learn about the world in which Jack lives — a world of 18th-century adventure, conflict, and change.
Who is Jack Coffey?
Jack Coffey is the central character of a series of historical novels set in the 1700s. Born under the name Wholesome Caffey, he earned the name “Jack” aboard HMS Happy.
From humble beginnings on the plantations of Barbados, Jack’s journey carries him across seas, through danger and upheaval, and into the heart of some of the century’s most consequential events. Along the way, he is shaped by friends and foes, by chance and choice — and by the forces of history.
Some quick facts about Jack:
- Birth name: Wholesome Caffey
- Nickname / alias: Jack Coffey (earned aboard HMS Happy)
- Born: circa 1720, at Codrington Estates, Barbados
- Heritage: A complex heritage — descended from enslaved ancestors, Sephardic Jewish roots, and English settlers
Why this story matters
Jack’s mixed background — born into a world defined by inequality, colonial power, and racial and cultural divides — offers a lens through which to explore the complexities of identity, empire, and survival in the 18th century. His life shows how history shapes individuals — and how individuals, in turn, can become part of history.
I hope this site becomes a place where you can read about Jack’s world, follow his journeys, and reflect on the forces that shaped — and still shape — our world today.
Stay tuned for more posts, background stories, and glimpses of life in Jack’s world.
Welcome aboard.
