The Duxbury Rural and Historical Society’s (DRHS) latest acquisition is a testament to its doggedness in amassing the most comprehensive collection for its Drew Archives.

When a member of DRHS alerted Executive Director Patrick Browne that Skinner Auctioneers in Boston was selling a painting titled “The Brig Perseverance,” Browne and his membership knew it belonged in Duxbury. The ship featured in the late 18th – early 19th century artwork was owned by Duxbury merchant mariner Amasa Delano.

“It was very exciting,” said Browne. “Duxbury ships really aren’t household names, but around here, it is. The Delanos have a huge presence around Duxbury.” Author of “A Narrative of Voyages and Travels in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres: Comprising Three Voyages Round the World; Together with a Voyage of Survey and Discovery in the Pacific Ocean and Oriental Islands,” Delano’s tale and his ship, The Perseverance, served as inspiration for Herman Melville’s little-known, but well-received novella, “Benito Cereno.” DRHS bought the painting of the brig at auction last week for $4,000. Like many of the paintings of that time, the artist is unknown.

Of all the collections the DRHS houses, that of Amasa Delano is the most sought after by researchers. Calls come in from all over the nation seeking information, partly because of his own accomplishments, partly because of the Melville connection.

“He was one of the first of early-American merchants operating in the South Seas,” said Browne. “Most of his adventures took place on board that vessel.”