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Tillamook Passage is the first few pages of America’s history. It’s a story steeped in tradition and rich with reality. Before the fledging nation looked west, men went to sea, and sailors sought maritime adventures that would make them wealthy. So it was with the trading of sea-otter pelts. Ships were launched, and the discovery of lavish new lands inhabited by native peoples would change the course of America’s destiny. This is an epic tale of clashing cultures, fate, trust, love and conflict – a thrilling testament to the brave hearts and sharp wits of the jack-tars who came before us.

Joseph Blackwell, a lad without prospects, befriends a mysterious sea captain and secures a berth on his ship. The year is 1787, and two American ships laden with supplies set sail from Boston Harbor with great fanfare. Their venture: to round Cape Horn and sail to the Northwest coast of America, to trade with the Indians for sea otter pelts. Once their cargo is secured, they will sail to China via the Sandwich Islands and trade the valuable skins for tea, before returning to Boston via the Cape of Good Hope.

During their stormy passage, the two ships lose contact with each other. As a result, the sloop Lady Washington, commanded by Captain Robert Gray, must proceed on her own. Reaching the uncharted Northwest coast, they discover native villages on a large, pristine bay which Gray names after the Indians: Tillamook.

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