Description by Sean Mitchell
OK... you've got me. This job really didn't exist as a regular ship duty.
The basis for this 'duty' is partially taken from the ship's ratcatcher (yes, there really WERE rat catchers on board) and a punishment duty given to sailors who did not merit the harsher, more physical punishments.
The ship's bilge refers to the area between the lowest deck on the ship and the ship's hull... in some cases, there were no decks between the "weather" or main deck and the hull, in which case the entire area would sometimes be referred to as the bilge. This area was a collection area for any water that made it below decks, as well as all refuse and filth that accumulated and was washed down. Ships (in almost all periods) were also routinely infested with both rats and cockroaches, and this area would attract them both as a hiding place and breeding area. Thus, being sent to 'scour the bilges' was a HIGHLY unpleasant task, to be avoided at all costs... My character in particular portrays a not overly intelligent type who is unfit for any other duty, and therefore is permanently assigned to this punishment detail.
A great big guy playing a little tiny whistle (Get your mind out of the gutter, people), Sean Mitchell is our ship's Bilge Cleaner