Caring for the Morgan
Artists in Residence
MYSTIC SEAPORT
MUSEUM
MAGAZINE FALL/WINTER • 2021
New Senior Curator of Social Maritime History THE NEW CENTER FOR EXPERIENTIAL EDUCATION THE
WORLD THROUGH WHALERS’ EYES
Staff on the Move
Stor y Boats
THIS IS WHERE YOU COME IN... Your generous Annual Fund gift has direct and profound impact on everyone who visits Mystic Seaport Museum. Our visitors love the exhibits, the waterfront, our summer camps, the library, online programming, and our working shipyard. You and your gifts support it all.
We need your donation by December 31, 2021 To make your gift today, please call 860.572.5365, email advancement@mysticseaport.org, or visit www.mysticseaport.org/support.
CONTENTS
16-17 MYSTIC SEAPORT MUSEUM MAGAZINE is a publication of Mystic Seaport Museum. PRESIDENT PETER ARMSTRONG EDITOR DAN MCFADDEN editor@mysticseaport.org CONTRIBUTING EDITOR SHERRI RAMELLA DESIGN SUSAN HEATH CONTRIBUTORS PETER ARMSTRONG BETSY BOWMAN CHRISTINA CONNETT BROPHY, PH.D. SARAH CAHILL ELYSA ENGELMAN, PH.D. CHRIS FREEMAN CHRIS GASIOREK AKEIA DE BARROS GOMES, PH.D. SOPHIA MATSAS SHANNON MCKENZIE MARGARET MILNES SHERRI RAMELLA KRYSTAL ROSE MARY ANNE STETS PHOTOGRAPHY AKEIA DE BARROS GOMES, PH.D. JOYFUL ENRIQUEZ BRUCE LEVINE JOE MICHAEL MYSTIC SEAPORT MUSEUM PHOTOGRAPHY ARCHIVES ANDY PRICE
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IN THIS ISSUE VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE............................................ 4 MUSEUM NEWS .....................................................5-11
18-19
MEMBERSHIP....................................................... 6 CARING FOR THE MORGAN..................................... 7 STAFF ON THE MOVE........................................ 10-11 ADVANCEMENT NEWS...........................................12-13 PERSPECTIVE DRIVES JOURNEY TO SENIOR CURATOR................................................14-15 THE NEW CENTER FOR EXPERIENTIAL EDUCATION.... 16-17 STORY BOATS......................................................18-19 THE WORLD THROUGH WHALERS’ EYES................. 20-21 FROM THE COLLECTIONS.......................................... 22 GIFT IDEAS............................................................. 23
ON THE COVER: Dr. Akeia de Barros Gomes, Senior Curator of Social Maritime Histories, stands in the Collections Research Center at Mystic Seaport Museum, the nation’s leading maritime research facility. CONTACT US VISITOR INFORMATION: 860.572.5315 ADMINISTRATION: 860.572.0711 ADVANCEMENT: 860.572.5365 MEMBERSHIP: 860.572.5339 PROGRAM RESERVATION: 860.572.5331 MUSEUM STORE: 860.572.5385 VOLUNTEER SERVICES: 860.572.5378 ADDRESS: 75 GREENMANVILLE AVE. P.O. BOX 6000 MYSTIC, CT 06355-0990 WWW.MYSTICSEAPORT.ORG
FOR MUSEUM EVENT INFORMATION VISIT US ON THE WEB AT
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WWW.MYSTICSEAPORT.ORG/EVENTS
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VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE
A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Welcome to this edition of the Mystic Seaport Museum Magazine, the first during my term as President of the Museum. I hope you enjoy reading about some of the new and exciting projects we have underway, as well as some important staff changes designed to support them. In the pages that follow, you will learn about unusual objects, special exhibitions, the Museum’s exciting new educational direction and, most importantly, our role in the community. It has been my great honor to work with the Museum’s dedicated staff, trustees, members, and volunteers over the past year who have helped me uncover the full potential of this amazing place. These last 18 months have been trying times for us all, both individually and for the whole of the Museum. As you well know, revenue was radically reduced, events were cancelled, and sadly jobs were lost while the remaining staff expanded their work hours and responsibilities in an exhausting push to remain operational. Now, however, as we begin (I hope) to emerge from the worst of this pandemic, we have a real opportunity to learn from the past and to shape our future. COVID-19 was, and still is, the ultimate change agent. In the next few years, we will witness some of that change as the Museum becomes more externally focused and tackles some of the pressing issues of our time, from social justice to sea level rise. And we will do so as the Mystic Seaport Family, working together to welcome a broader audience, including underserved communities; adding to the breadth of compelling stories about our maritime heritage; and ensuring that we connect each visitor to their sea story. It’s been an interesting summer. We have seen masks on and masks off, vaccines distributed, and the Delta variant spread. It has rained on every federal holiday and we had a hurricane during the WoodenBoat Show. The Charles W. Morgan was on the hard in the Shipyard, and everyone on the East Coast seemed to be buying a boat and looking to bring it here.
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MUSEUM NEWS And just when we thought we had enough summer staff despite the difficulties in recruiting, the Governor graciously gave free entry to every Connecticut child plus one adult, increasing our need for staff dramatically. All of these challenges had one thing in common: your staff at Mystic Seaport Museum were not phased. They worked seamlessly as a team, discussed how they would manage the hurricane and the Governor’s program, and delivered the same quality experience they always have no matter what the situation. I want to take this opportunity to tell you, in print, what you already know— the staff of this institution are remarkable and I am proud to be their President. Now, let’s see what the New England winter has in store for us. Cheers, Peter Armstrong
CARING FOR OUR COMMUNITY The Museum is proud to be hosting three young adult job
seekers along with a job coach through coordination with Niantic-based The Light House, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization specializing in education and support services for individuals
with intellectual, physical, and developmental disabilities. The individuals have been helping with boat maintenance at the
Museum’s Sailing Center and assembling crafts in the Toy Boats
Building. The initiative coincided with October’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month, this year with the theme “America’s Recovery: Powered by Inclusion.”
For more on the partnerships and initiatives the Museum has
supported, please visit www.mysticseaport.org/connect/caringfor-our-community/.
NEW CAPTAIN OF BRILLIANT We are delighted that Sarah Armour was appointed Captain of the Schooner Brilliant earlier this fall. Sarah first came to Mystic Seaport Museum working on other sail training vessels, and found her way back to Mystic in the spring of 2020. Sarah instantly became a valued staff member and we all saw what one passenger noted this summer—she is “engaging, relaxed, pleasant and professional. (Oh, and super fun!)” Sarah started volunteering on board the sloop Clearwater when she was 14 years old. Her parents, who met through Hudson River Sloop Clearwater, Inc., where Sarah now serves on the Board of Directors, trusted their daughter to find her own way in her education and encouraged her career in sail training. She chose sail training because “it allows students a platform to build a relationship with their waterway and they realize that the work they are doing is bigger than themselves.” In her new role, she will continue to carry on the tremendous sailing legacy and caring for such an exceptionally maintained vessel and beloved, long running program.
Follow @SchoonerBrilliant on Instagram to see Brilliant through Sarah’s eyes and find out about trips on board next summer!
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MUSEUM NEWS
M
THANK
YOU!
ystic Seaport Museum members are this institution’s most impassioned and consistent supporters. You are the people who kept renewing your memberships, sending personal notes, volunteering, and making gifts of support, during the darkest days of the pandemic. During those early days when we were suddenly closed, the only revenue coming in was membership renewals and individual philanthropy. Everyone at Mystic Seaport Museum is forever grateful for your support then, and now, and in the days and years to come. We are humbled by your generosity. One of the many ways we’re saying “thank you” is with unique open Member evenings; our favorite is always Member Appreciation Night. Early-evening light in September is somehow perfect and it’s a rare treat to be in the Museum after hours. Again this year, on Saturday, September 25, we kept the Museum open late, just for members and their guests. Families shared picnics on the green and on the deck, listened to music, or enjoyed a drink from the bar. Kids played games on the McGraw Gallery Quadrangle. Many members enjoyed their exclusive access to the new exhibit Sea as Muse in the company of our Luce curator, Katherine Hijar, Ph.D. Others took advantage of the free rentals at the Boat House to get out on the river, a bittersweet joy in late September here in New England. If you didn’t have the opportunity to join us this fall, try and make it next year, or to other bespoke Member events. One of our greatest pleasures as a team is meeting you in person, and hearing your stories of why you love this extraordinary place. We are always looking for new ways to improve your benefits. Do you have ideas for behind-the-scenes talks, tours, or future member trips? Send your ideas as well as your favorite Mystic Seaport Museum sea stories to us at membership@mysticseaport.org. We can’t wait to connect. Margaret Milnes is Director of Membership.
UPCOMING MEMBER EVENTS: November 26-December 5, 2021 Member Double Discount Days Fridays, November 2021 through April 2022 Shipyard & Watercraft Hall Tours December 2021 Virtual Charitable Giving Strategies, December 8 FREE admission to Florence Griswold Museum, December 11 Third Thursday in January, February, March, and April 2022 Virtual Adventure Series 2022 March 2022 Eagle Watching Cruise on the Connecticut River Plus Member Days, pop-up virtual talks, and much more. Visit www.mysticseaport.org/join/member-programs/ for up-to-date information on Member events.
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MUSEUM NEWS
CARING FOR THE MORGAN By Chris Gasiorek
Wasn’t the Charles W. Morgan just sailing? Hasn’t
cleaning of the bottom, a full inspection was carried
the ship just been fully restored? Common questions
out. Some butt joints were marked for re-caulking,
this summer as visitors to Chubb’s Wharf saw a sign
but no major surprises were found on the bottom.
directing them to the shipyard to see our flagship.
New copper sheathing was added on the worm shoe
Well, that restoration started thirteen years ago—even
of the ship’s original 1841 keel, and sheathing added
the 38th Voyage is now seven years ago—and it was
to protect and preserve some of the original garboard
time to ensure that our Morgan was cared for.
strake planking.
The process of hauling out the Morgan for mainte-
While out of the water thousands of visitors during
nance started several months beforehand, with plan-
the summer were able to board the vessel for tours
ning for dock availability, taking down the rig to ensure
(and a great view of Mystic) and see the size and
stability while in the shiplift, and planning for work and
shape of the full ship. After completing a full topside
materials. While there were no immediate concerns
to topside sanding prep and painting, and serving as a
with the condition of the hull, with a 180-year-old ship
brilliant backdrop for the Mystic Art Festival, the
you have to be ready for surprises.
Morgan was ready to be re-launched in early Sep-
On July 19, with a crowd gathered along the village
tember. A safe launching and short voyage returned
waterfront, the Charles W. Morgan was underway for
the ship to Chubb’s Wharf, where rigging maintenance
the short voyage around the point to the Hays and Ros
continues before full up-rigging in time for summer.
Clark Ship Lift. Once in place, with the keel landed on the blocks, divers secured the side supports and the ship started out of the water. After a short move and
Chris Gasiorek is Vice President of Watercraft Preservation and Programs.
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MUSEUM NEWS
On June 18 the Children’s Museum was officially dedicated as the Susan Stucke Funk Children’s Museum to honor Susan Funk, the Museum’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer who retired in the summer of 2020 after dedicating over 40 years to the Museum. It was a fitting tribute to Susan as the Children’s Museum embodies her lifelong playful spirit and sense of wonder. Susan has always understood that experiential education and learning through play are essential elements to any Museum, and she was instrumental in the development of many kid-friendly activities here, including the play boats in front of the Treworgy Planetarium. The Children’s Museum has been a central piece of the visitor experience for many years, and it is the epitome of learning through play. Thousands of families have had the opportunity here to pretend to be a sailor on the high seas, cook a hearty meal, or immerse themselves in the wonderful puzzles, books, and games on offer. Susan’s youthful spirit and sense of adventure will continue to inspire others for many generations to come. The dedication preceded the official reopening of the Children’s Museum for the first time since March of 2020. It was a tonic to the soul to see children in that space minutes after opening the building with its new name.
STILLMAN GETS A LIFT
At first glance, the mural on Stillman Building is a whim-
sical creation, blending colorful patterns, swirls of clouds, and gigantic flowers. Look a little closer, though, and you might discover some familiar features. Each element of this mural, painted by artist Sue McNally, is inspired by
an object in the Museum’s collection. Working over sev-
eral weeks in the summer of 2021, Sue uncovered many
inspirations for the mural by visiting the Museum collec-
tion. She was drawn to “paintings that feel like they were
created by untrained artists, detailed botanicals from the scrimshaw collection, a 1912 aerial map of the Mystic River, a looking glass by Isaac. L. Platt, and botanicals from two Portuguese platters made in Madeira,” her mother’s homeland.
Sue McNally is a New England artist and graduate of the Savannah College of Art and Design (M.F.A) and the University of Rhode Island (B.F.A.).
To view an interactive map of the mural as it relates to the items in our collection, scan the QR code.
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MUSEUM NEWS
FREE SUMMER. PRICELESS MEMORIES. In the Summer of 2021, the Museum opened its doors free
of charge to over 64,000 Connecticut children plus one adult as part of the Connecticut Summer at the Museum program. This initiative was part of Governor Ned Lamont’s plan to use recovery funds to provide students and families with engaging educational and enrichment experiences in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through this program, our grounds were bustling with children of all ages from across the state. After over a year of COVID restrictions and uncertainty, it was uplifting to see children exploring our exhibits, playing on our grounds, getting out on the water, building toy boats, laughing, and experiencing all that we have to offer. It was an enriching time for all of us, getting back to a sense of normalcy and interacting, safely, on the beautiful grounds of our Museum.
MUSEUM IS HOST TO TWO MARINE ARTISTS This summer the Museum hosted two artists-in-residence through a program sponsored by The Center for American Marine Art. For two weeks, starting on June 20, we welcomed award-winning marine artist, Patrick O’Brien, whose paintings capture the glory and grandeur of the great age-of-sail. Patrick, who resides in Baltimore with his wife and son, has been painting maritime scenes since the 1980s when he graduated from college. He recalls being a child and sitting at the dining room table painting old historic scenes, civil war paintings, and Viking scenes. Today he feels lucky to be making a living doing the same thing. Marine wildlife artist Joyful Enriquez began her six-week residency on July 20. As a charismatic and open young artist, Joyful was recommended for the program, where she encouraged creativity among youth daily, noting, “I’m able to actually show them that classic marine artwork is not dead and that yes, people can still make a living from painting.” Joyful draws inspiration from her own diving experiences and translates them into enchanting paintings that immerse viewers into an underwater adventure. FALL / WINTER 2021
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MUSEUM NEWS
STAFF
on the move
When Chris Freeman came home to Stonington to start a family, his first priority was to find a job. In 1998 when he saw the open position of Trade Sales Manager at Mystic Seaport Museum, he jumped at the chance to take on this new challenge. Over the past two decades he never declined the opportunity to pursue a new and exciting role within the Museum and was recently appointed Vice President of Advancement. Throughout his fundraising career, Chris has always found inspiration in the letters of thanks he has received from grateful parents of camp students, researchers who have discovered new insights in the collection, members whose families have forged multi-generational memories at the Museum, and visitors who found delight in meeting a friendly and knowledgeable staff member. Chris plans to continue working with his colleagues and friends throughout the Museum and the community to build a culture of philanthropy to support the continued growth and success of Mystic Seaport Museum far into the future. In fact, he has his eye on the horizon of 2029, when the many friends of the Museum will gather in fellowship to celebrate the Centennial Anniversary of Mystic Seaport Museum. ONWARD!
In June, Katie Keogh joined the Advancement team as Director
of Major Gifts. Katie joins us from Sweet Briar College in Virginia
where she was a major gifts officer and founding member of the volunteer grassroots campaign that saved the college from an attempted closure.
Katie grew up sailing on Long Island Sound out of Larchmont
Yacht Club. Her parents Cissie and Tom Keogh were Mystic Seaport Museum PILOTS and also members of the Cruising Club of
America and The New York Yacht Club, so she spent many memorable days voyaging with them up and down the east coast.
Her maritime background and her talent for helping people fulfill their philanthropic ambitions make her a superb fit for the Advancement team at Mystic Seaport Museum.
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MUSEUM NEWS
Chris Sanders has taken on the role of Director of the Henry B. duPont Preservation Shipyard, a spot long held by Quentin Snediker who will be devoting his time to the Watercraft Collection. Chris is a native of Connecticut who studied at the University of North Carolina before beginning his career in wooden boat restoration and construction. He is a graduate of the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum’s Shipwright Apprentice Program, as well as the International Yacht Restoration School in Newport, Rhode Island. Since his graduation, he has worked on restoration projects in six states and ran his own boat restoration shop in San Diego. He returned with his family to Connecticut to work on the Mayflower II restoration at Mystic Seaport Museum. He has served as the lead shipwright in the DuPont Shipyard for the last two years, and lives with his wife, Dr. Megan McCarthy Sanders, and daughter Vann in North Stonington.
Shannon McKenzie’s career at Mystic Seaport Museum started in March of 2007 as Assistant to the Vice President of Watercraft Preservation and Programs. Her background as Marine Operations Coordinator for the Sea Education Association, which took her sailing around the world, prepared Shannon well for taking on many responsibilities here, from the Antique & Classic Boat Rendezvous to the WoodenBoat Show. When planning for the Charles W. Morgan’s 38th Voyage began, Shannon was promoted to the position of Director of Watercraft Programs and oversaw all watercraft operations—including the Sabino, Schooner Brilliant and the Boat House. Shannon views the greatest asset of the Museum and the community that she loves and calls home as the river. It is central to many experiences for visitors who come here and interact with the staff. In her new role as Vice President of Museum Operations, she never knows what the day will bring, but she does know that seeing families come to the Museum, enjoying the beauty and the wide range of activities are what inspire her to do what she does. Shannon is also an active community member and finds the time to plan events like the Downtown Mystic Merchants and Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce’s annual Floatchella event. Shannon lives in Mystic with her husband Matt and son Sam. FALL / WINTER 2021
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A D VA N C E M E N T N E W S
Museum Honors Terry Hutchinson By Sherri Ramella
“I’ve sailed with Terry and I’ve sailed against him. I’ll tell you what, On September 14, the Museum’s 16th annual America and the
Sea Award Gala was held at the Metropolitan Club in New York City to honor Terry Hutchinson, one of the most admired and respected sailors on the yacht racing circuit, for the leadership, integrity, courage, and humility he has demonstrated throughout his career.
I’d rather sail with him. Sailing against him is tough!” — Tom Whidden
After many months of virtual events, including our 2020 Gala, guests were delighted to gather in person! The evening was cheerfully kicked off by Gala Co-chair Barclay Collins, Board Chairman Michael Hudner, and Museum President Peter Armstrong! 2020 Honoree Tom Whidden’s admiration shone in his perfectly worded introduction, joking “I’ve sailed with Terry and I’ve sailed against him. I’ll tell you what, I’d rather sail with him. Sailing against him is tough!” A video in tribute to Hutchinson’s extraordinary career included remarks from Alexander Roepers, Doug DeVos, Hap Fauth, Ed Reynolds, Tom Whidden, and wife Shelley Hutchinson. Hutchinson’s emotional delivery of his speech was indicative of his genuine gratitude and respect for the Museum and the honorees before him, saying “I am incredibly humbled to be included in this elite group in our sport.” Dr. Elysa Engelman, Director of Exhibits, delivered a compelling introduction to the paddle raise, inspiring guests to raise their paddles in support of free admission to the Museum for local children in 2022. And auctioneer Geraldine Nager Griffin prolonged the magic throughout the live auction and paddle raise, bringing the gross revenue to over $635,000! The Museum sends a heartfelt thank you to the 2021 Gala Committee, Board of Trustees, and the myriad supporters who gave in honor of Terry Hutchinson to further the mission of Mystic Seaport Museum. For information about the award as well as current and past award recipients, please visit www.mysticseaport.org/gala. Sherri Ramella is Associate Director of Stewardship and Events.
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We sincerely thank the following sponsors: PLATINUM:
Betsy and Hunt Lawrence
GOLD:
Peggy and Grant Cambridge J. Barclay Collins, II Joanne and Michael T. Masin Alexander Roepers Travelers …and our 15 Bronze sponsors.
SILVER:
Glenmede Endowment and Foundation Management Beverly Gregory Cayre and Alexis Michas
A D VA N C E M E N T N E W S
first answer might be the small boat collection. That makes sense, Bob is an avid sailor and motor boater, and he owns a modern Alerion Express 28. But Bob will also tell you about the Museum’s collection of figureheads, the gallery spaces, the diversity and quality of our exhibitions, and the list goes on. He also acknowledges the lifelong friendships with like-minded people he has developed as a friend of the Museum and a donor to the Annual Fund at the America and the Sea Society level. As a longtime member, Bob has seen his share of change at the Museum. As highlights, he cites the 38th Voyage of the Charles W. Morgan, completion of the Thompson Exhibition Building creating the
WE
SALUTE
BOB OSIESKI By Betsy Bowman
We thank
Bob for his three decades of membership, his wonderful support, and his friendship.
We sat down with Bob Osieski to learn about his passion for Mystic Seaport Museum, and why he has been a member for 30 years, a donor to the Annual Fund at the President’s Circle level and a member of the Stillman Society (the Museum’s legacy giving society). Bob grew up outside of Scranton, Pennsylvania. An ROTC student at the University of Rochester, he graduated with a B.A., M.B.A., and his U.S. Naval commission. His first position out of college was Supply Officer, working for Admiral Hyman G. Rickover. After three years in Washington, D.C., Admiral Rickover called Bob into his office and said
McGraw Gallery Quadrangle, and kicking off the Era of Exhibitions, which brought us J.M.W. Turner: Watercolors from Tate. He also is excited about the future. To Bob, the Museum is a vital part of the fabric of New England and a “national treasure” that enjoys an international reputation as a worldclass museum. We thank Bob for his three decades of membership, his wonderful support, and his friendship. To learn more about the Annual Fund and the America and the Sea Society, please call 860.572.5365 or email us at advancement@mysticseaport.org.
“you’re going to Groton,” and soon Bob became the Admiral’s financial representative at Electric Boat. During his three years “at Groton,”
Betsy Bowman is Director of Major Gifts and Annual Fund.
Bob lived on Mason’s Island and in Mystic. That’s when his love affair with Mystic Seaport Museum and this part of the world began. Ask Bob about his favorite places and things at the Museum and his
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SOCIAL MARITIME HISTORY
-
“ Exploring history also points
to the strength and resilience that carried Indigenous and African-descended peoples through to the present. It attests to the maintenance of their communities and culture throughout New England and highlights their central role in maritime industry.”
Perspective Drives Journey to Senior Curator By Sophia Matsas
Dr. Akeia de Barros Gomes has joined Mystic Seaport
woman and a young girl picking cotton. The woman was
Museum as Senior Curator of Social Maritime Histories
looking at the camera and smiling. This struck Akeia as
and will lead the way in the Museum’s partnership with
odd, the smile feeling out of place, and that feeling has
Brown University and Williams College to study histori-
remained with her.
cal injustices through maritime history, thanks to a grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.
Years later in graduate school, Akeia worked with the Mashantucket Pequot Reservation, where she expe-
Akeia’s journey to the Museum arguably began with a
rienced history as it was interpreted by Mashantucket
childhood moment that sparked an interest, a concern,
Pequots themselves. Witnessing them relay history from
a realization that perspective greatly influences how
their own perspective is something that Akeia found tru-
stories are told.
ly powerful, impacting her deeply. In working with In-
Throughout her life, Akeia has recalled a moment in
digenous people and listening to their stories, she be-
elementary school, reading about slavery in a textbook,
gan to fully understand the importance of hearing and
when she noticed a picture of an African American
empathizing with the experiences of all contributors in
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history. Akeia knows that in most cas-
ing it common practice to include all
es, the past is told through the eyes
voices in telling the stories of history.
of the victors, often marginalizing the
The challenge is great, but neces-
story of those who were colonized.
sary. Akeia notes, “There is often a
By understanding
real resistance to countering existing
the motivations,
narratives. It’s uncomfortable, but
s t r ug gle s , and
we are living with the consequences
personal aspects
of this. No one wants to think about
of both sides,
trauma and the legacy of trauma
the perception of
through history. To understand what
history evolves,
is going on now, the inequalities now,
becoming more
the difficulties people are facing now,
complete.
you have to explore history, because
Akeia later conducted research in West Africa, where she learned about the history and culture of the people of Ghana and Benin. Akeia heard the stories of people that have existed for thousands of years before slavery, stories that often are hard to find in textbooks. There she connected with, and remains in contact with, artists and storytellers that carry on the traditions of West African heritage and customs with future generations. As Senior Curator of Social Maritime Histories, Akeia will amplify the voices of the people who have been underrepresented in traditional accounts of maritime history, working with both the Indigenous and African American communities to provide them with a platform to include their perspec-
all those things are a legacy of what happened in the past.” Visitors’ ability to recognize themselves and their ancestors in the historical perspectives shared by the Museum will increase the validity of the message, and they too may experience a realization, just as young Akeia did, that could inform the future for all. The past is rich! The story of that past becomes diluted, incomplete, without the varying, sometimes conflicting, perspectives of all people. Mystic Seaport Museum welcomes Akeia and her perspective informed by her journey here. Sophia Matsas is Manager of Digital Marketing.
Andrew W. Mellon Foundation Grant A $4.9 million grant from The
Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to
Brown University’s Center for the Study of Slavery and Justice will fund a partnership with Mystic Seaport Museum and Williams
College that will use maritime history as a basis for studying his-
torical injustices and generating new insights on the relationship between European colonization
in North America, the disposses-
sion of Native American land, and racial slavery in New England.
The collaborative project, titled
“Reimagining New England Histories: Historical Injustice, Sover-
eignty and Freedom,” will create
new work and study opportunities at all three institutions, particularly for scholars, curators, and
students from underrepresented
groups. It will result in a new Mystic Seaport Museum exhibition on
race, subjugation, and power, and a “decolonial archive” spotlight-
ing a diverse collection of stories from several New England communities.
The grant was awarded by the
Mellon Foundation as part of its Just Futures initiative.
tives. This study of social histories from additional viewpoints will enrich the stories told by Mystic Seaport Museum, allowing all people the opportunity to place themselves as part of an overall historical account. Akeia already has begun integrating this philosophy and it can be seen today with the installation of the panels for the “Sea Connects Us” exhibition —featuring stories of maritime history from diverse perspectives—throughout the Museum grounds. This is just the beginning, as Akeia intends to spark an evolution at Mystic Seaport Museum, and across other institutions as preservers of the past, mak-
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E D U C AT I O N
THE NEW CENTER FOR
E X P E R I E N T I A L E D U C AT I O N By Sarah Cahill
“Mystic Seaport is synonymous with education, ad-
(PYD), which is based on decades of research and ex-
of a camper who did our Joseph Conrad Overnight Sail-
they are more likely to be successful. The field of PYD
dents have participated in this camp in its more than
that prioritizes positive relationships with peers and
not had the same opportunity to share in these types
and practice healthy behaviors; builds confidence
tify this situation the Museum’s Education Department
experiences; fosters youth voice and leadership op-
venture and fun”! This was the sentiment of a parent
perience, is that when we focus on youth’s strengths,
ing Camp this past summer. While over 14,000 stu-
emphasizes the importance of youth programming
70-year history, youth who are disadvantaged have
adults; creates safe environments in which to learn
of transformative experiences at the Museum. To rec-
and competence through challenging and meaningful
is developing a new Center for Experiential Educa-
portunities; and allows youth to be appreciated and
tion
whose
mission
is “to engage underresourced
youth
in
education
anchored
experiential maritime in positive youth development
to
help
The museum is uniquely positioned to engage learners who are not thriving in a traditional school environment.
recognized for their assets their
rather
deficits.
than
Re-
search indicates that programs for underresourced youth that
use a PYD framework
them enhance their social, emotional, and leadership
are significantly related to higher levels of youth resil-
resources over the years in various programs, this
those youth.
to our education programs and a commitment to
programming for youth in a variety of settings on-
ming steeped in the principles of positive youth de-
large riverfront campus that includes a sailing cen-
The basic concept of positive youth development
and overnight experiences onboard the historic full-
skills.” While we have worked with youth with limited
new Center marks a fundamental shift in our approach
ience and can be effective in improving outcomes for The Center for Experiential Education will provide
reaching more underserved youth through program-
site, in-school, and through overnight programs. Our
velopment.
ter, planetarium, working shipyard, unique exhibits
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rigged training ship, the Joseph Conrad, and our iconic schooner Brilliant make us uniquely positioned to engage
learners who are not thriving in a traditional school setting.
Through the Center for Experiential Education programming,
students will work together to build wooden boats, learn to safely operate a powerboat and to sail, learn about as-
tronomy and how to navigate, become stewards of our waters through marine science, all while creating better lives for themselves.
THE CENTER FOR EXPERIENTIAL EDUCATION WILL HELP YOUTH
E D U C AT I O N
• develop essential skills such as leadership,
communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking; • build resilience;
• increase their awareness of maritime museum careers and enhance their readiness for post high school employment and education;
• develop technical skills such as sailing, boat handling, navigation, carpentry, sample collection and testing, and scientific observation.
BUILDING AN EMPLOYMENT PIPELINE A critical element to the Center for Experiential Education is the creation and development of an employment “pipeline.” The potential of future employment is an essential tool for youth recruitment and retention, with the additional benefit of moving the Museum toward its goal of diversifying our workforce. The Center for Experiential Education can help recruit, train, and eventually hire workers for our shipyard, sailing center, exhibits, and other departments. To begin to facilitate this process, this past summer the Museum’s Sailing Center served as a host worksite through New London Youth Affairs, a Youth Service Bureau which promotes positive outcomes for children, youth, and families in New London County. Utilizing Workforce Investment Act funds, three young people worked as summer camp counselors-in-training at the Museum’s Sailing Center, where they served as role models for our campers, built leadership skills, trained as junior sailing instructors, and supported staff in camper supervision and activities. The Center for Experiential Education will enable youth to be paid stipends each summer to work at our Sailing Center. The Education Department will develop and implement pilot programming this year, with the goal of launching the Center for Experiential Education in the fall of 2022. Sarah Cahill is Director of Education.
Students learn about navigation at our Treworgy Planetarium using sextants.
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UPCOMING EXHIBITION
STORY BOATS By Christina Connett Brophy, Ph.D.
Opening Summer 2022
One of the Museum’s greatest assets is our small watercraft collection, which is arguably the largest of its type and the best in the country. Mystic Seaport Museum has over 450 small watercraft as well as a fleet of larger historic vessels tethered to our docks along the Mystic River, several of which are designated National Historic Landmarks. As a whole, these vessels represent an extraordinary array of design, purpose, and materials beginning in the early 19th century to the present, from dugout canoes to duck boats to Boston Whalers and everything in between and beyond. What ties these boats together thematically, and is the inspiration for the upcoming exhibition Story Boats, is the remarkable richness of human interest stories behind them, which include themes of hope, exploration, survival, joy, adventure, sport, immigration, and many others. While many visitors and field experts are interested in the technical and material aspects of these collections, what resonates with a broader audience are the diverse personal stories that are inherently tied to these boats and how these stories connect with their own journeys. Clark Senior Curator for Watercraft, Quentin
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2021
Snedicker, reached out to the Museum’s Watercraft Committee, Museum staff, and others to list their own favorite watercraft stories from the collections and it is from this pool that we made our selection. Story Boats will bring much needed attention to the watercraft collection with the exhibition of fascinating boats and related materials that bring their unique stories to life. The installation in our glorious Collins Gallery will fully utilize the grand volume of the space to our advantage, where some of the lighter vessels will “fly” suspended from the ceiling, while others will be mounted on the gallery floor. Each vessel will be exhibited with an iconic object that alludes to its story. For example, the team is working to borrow pieces from a collection of Franklin D. Roosevelt artifacts to show alongside his 1914 knockabout sloop Vireo. Shortly before a family trip aboard this elegant small yacht in 1921, it is believed that Roosevelt contracted polio. He was aboard this small vessel on the last day he walked without assistance. Mystic Seaport Museum recently received a collection of material from Steven Callahan, author of Adrift: Seventy-six Days Lost at Sea, the true story of his survival of being lost at sea in a rubber raft af-
ter his solo sailing trip across the Atlantic met with disaster. His sketches and some of the survival tools he created from his scant supplies will be on display with a similar model of the raft from which he found rescue off Guadaloupe. Callahan’s recent oral histories recorded by Mystic Seaport Museum will also be available in the exhibition. Another fascinating story involves the Analuisa, a 20-foot fishing vessel built by Luciano Cuadras Fernández, which was launched from Mariel, Cuba, in 1994 with 19 people aboard bound to immigrate to Florida. Partway across, they were picked up by a passing cruiseliner, no doubt worried about the heavily overcrowded vessel. A very fortunate crew of four on a floundering vessel also out of Cuba, happened upon the abandoned Analuisa and brought her safely to Key West. The sturdy Analuisa was a success story for two immigrant groups in one voyage. These are just a few of the hundreds of amazing stories that are tied to our Gallery collection. To complement the Collins Gallery exhibition, other watercraft will be mounted seasonally on the deck surrounding the Thompson Exhibition Building and surrounding grounds, including Tango, a bright orange foot-pedal powered craft designed by the legendary Bruce Kirby. In 1992, Dwight Collins pedaled from Newfoundland to England in 41 days, the fastest human-powered crossing in known history. In addition to these displays, there will be special visitor maps to floating Story Boats vessels that carry their own powerful tales, including the Gerda III, which is on long term loan from the Museum of Jewish Heritage in New York City. In 1943, a courageous 22-year-old woman named Henny Sinding organized a resistance team to carry over 300 Jews from Nazi-occupied Denmark to safety in Sweden aboard the Gerda III, carrying 10-15 people at a time hidden in her cargo hold for the crossing. At the moment, visitors can roam the boat-filled docks and even step aboard some of our larger ships that live in or next to the Mystic River. They can tour the waterfront aboard the Breck Marshall or Liberty, and borrow a small craft from the livery to try their hand at sailing or rowing. What they typically don’t get to see is the immense watercraft collection stored across the street in the Rossie Mill unless they participate in the few but immensely popular watercraft tours run by our excellent volunteers and staff. We hope that Story Boats whets the appetite of the public to learn more about our extraordinary collections and helps them find their own connections to the sea.
UPCOMING EXHIBITION
What ties these boats together thematically, is the remarkable richness of human interest stories behind them, which include themes of hope, exploration, survival, joy, adventure, sport, immigration and many others.
ABOVE: Vireo, hauled out and covered on the beach at Campobello Island, New Brunswick, Canada, shortly before coming to Mystic Seaport Museum. FDR’s youngest son, John, is seen standing in front (1955.455.1).
ABOVE: Vireo in the Watercraft Hall at the Museum. FDR sailed on Vireo just days before he lost his ability to walk (1959.455).
BELOW AND LEFT: The custom-built canoe, Patsy Green, was used by Henry A. Wise Wood and his wife, Elizabeth Ogden, from 1907 to 1908, to traverse 900 miles from New York to Prince Edward Island. Their adventure included several open-ocean passages and was documented by news outlets, as seen in the September 13, 1908 issue of the New York Herald. (1980.93.)
What’s your sea story? Christina Connett Brophy, Ph.D., is Senior Director of Museum Galleries and Senior Vice President of Curatorial Affairs.
LEFT: Boys resting by the longboats on the brigantine Albatross. After the Albatross sank, the survivors drifted for 22 hours in the longboats before rescue (2002.35.331). FALL / WINTER 2021
| 19
C U R R E N T LY O N E X H I B I T
Currently on Exhibit
THE WORLD THROUGH WHALERS’ EYES By Akeia de Barros Gomes, Ph.D.
The Grand Panorama of a Whaling Voyage ‘Round the
ford’s “Whaleman Artist.” It reveals the history of glo-
to the Azores, Cabo Verde, Brazil, around Cape Horn
and Europe in the 19th century. It provides a view of
quesas, the Society Islands, Hawaii and Fiji. Eight feet
the world. And the painting itself is an amazing story of
Building is tall!), Russell and Purrington’s Panorama
less” to being “priceless” over the course of 60 years.
on Russell’s sketches from his 1841-1845 whaling voy-
cover upon close inspection of the Panorama. Perhaps
time history, folklore, and literature. Between now and
Then you spy a petroglyph carved into the face of a
see objects from its locations, and attend narrated
on Fiji, you see a woman who is perhaps giving birth.
change rolls.
out the Panorama, where he includes things that he
an example of 19th-century art of the spectacle, and
1847 volcanic eruption on the island of Fogo, Cabo
to fame and panoramas became popular in the United
side of a cave on Juan Fernandez Island. Readers will
maritime art—Benjamin Russell is known as New Bed-
soe actually marooned in the Caribbean. However, the
World is a passport that carries you from New Bedford
balization and imperial expansion by the United States
to Juan Fernandez Island, to Pitcairn Island, the Mar-
people, cultures, practices and traditions from around
tall and 1,275 feet long (longer than the Empire State
how one piece of art went from being seen as “worth-
makes visitors feel like they are “on location.” Based
There always seems to be something new to dis-
age, the Panorama contains the excitement of mari-
you see a person with an interesting facial expression.
March 27, 2022, visitors can experience the Panorama,
cliff on Nuku Hiva in the Marquesas. In the final scene
scene changes as we roll the Panorama forward and
Most fun are Russell’s “Easter eggs” hidden through-
We can think about the Panorama in many ways. It is
could not have witnessed on his voyage—such as the
was on display at the same time that P.T. Barnum rose
Verde, or Robinson Crusoe standing with his goat out-
States and Europe. It is also an excellent example of
recall that in Daniel Dafoe’s 1719 novel, Robinson Cru-
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2021
C U R R E N T LY O N E X H I B I T
Square and circle stamp size is 1.625” x 1.625“ (1 5/8” x 1 5/8”) Square and circle stamps are approx. 1 1/4” IDEAL-4924 sale price $21.50
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NEW BEDFORD
RAMA
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THE GRAND PANORAMA
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MYSTIC SEAPORT MUSEUM
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THE GRAND PANORAMA MYSTIC SEAPORT MUSEUM
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JUAN FERNANDEZ
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AZORES
MYSTIC SEAPORT MUSEUM
THE GRAND PANORAMA MYSTIC SEAPORT MUSEUM
AZORES
THE GRAND PANORAMA
RIO DE JANEIRO MYSTIC SEAPORT MUSEUM
RIO DE JANEIRO THE GRAND PANORAMA MYSTIC SEAPORT MUSEUM
KEALAKEKUA BAY
THE GRAND PANORAMA
SOCIETY ISLANDS story of Alexander Selkirk,
THE GRAND PANORAMA MYSTIC SEAPORT MUSEUM played over the course of the exhibition. Awards will
Fernandez). Adept 19th-century (and 21st-century)
prize for those who collect all 15. This is the perfect
T
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THE GRAND PANORAMA
novel is
THE GRAND PANORAMA based theMUSEUM true MYSTICon SEAPORT
MYSTIC SEAPORT MUSEUM
who was marooned on Mas Tierra (later named Juan
be given to those with multiple stamps and a special
audience members would have picked up on this.
time to be a Mystic Seaport Museum member—and
Bounty” in its depiction of Pitcairn Island and its fa-
over the course
The Panorama references the 1789 “Mutiny on the
PACIFIC
FIJI
mous Banyan tree. Russell and Purrington also de-
NW WHALING
be able to come ferent scenes
pict the 1820 destruction of the whaleship Essex world. THE GRAND PANORAMA when it was THE rammed by a sperm whale in the GRAND PANORAMA MYSTICPaSEAPORT MUSEUM MYSTIC SEAPORT MUSEUM cific. The horrifying story influenced Herman Mel-
back
multiple times
of a year to see dif-
MYSTIC SEAPORT MUSEUM
from around the
THE GRAND PANORAMA
ville’s Moby-Dick and was well entrenched in maritime
lore by the time Russell and Purrington created the Panorama.
You will notice something new, exciting, humorous
and informative each time you visit the Panorama at Mystic Seaport Museum. You can view the Panorama in its entirety on digital screen in the exhibition and
in the 2-volume book. And, since the painting is your passport to the world, be sure to pick up your free
Grand Panorama Passport. The Museum will be issuing stamps for each of the 15 Panorama scenes dis-
Akeia de Barros Gomes, Ph.D., is Senior Curator of Social Maritime Histories.
ALSO CURRENTLY ON EXHIBIT:
Sea as Muse Sailor Made: Folk Art of the Sea Figureheads & Shipcarvings Voyaging in the Wake of the Whalers For full exhibition descriptions, visit www.mysticseaport.org/explore/exhibits/. FALL / WINTER 2021
|
21
FROM THE COLLECTIONS
At length did cross an Albatross, Thorough the fog it came; As if it had been a Christian soul, We hailed it in God’s name.
ALBATROSS KEEPSAKES
(Coleridge)
By Krystal Rose
in detecting scents
The albatross has
and coping with
long been a source
excess salts.
of superstition and mystery for those
Possibly the most
who go to sea. With an almost super-
natural presence, this enormous sea bird, with a
wingspan of up to twelve feet, can glide behind a
ship for long periods, barely flapping its wings. Many mariners believed the albatross carried the souls of dead sailors, and depending on the circumstance, could be an omen of good luck or a sign of disastrous things to come.
Mentioned throughout maritime logbooks and
surprising memento
is an albatross foot pouch, given to the Museum by the donor with only the message: “Albatross foot /
Carried in days of ’49 / to hold gold dust.” While this might seem like an eccentric item created in a time of boredom at sea, it was not uncommon for sailors to take the bird’s foot, remove the bones,
and carefully separate the skin,
to create tobacco pouches. While
literature, the albatross has a prominent role in
ours is more simplistic in design,
Mariner.” When the magnificent bird first appears,
foot pouches with drawstrings
Ancient Mariner kills the albatross. The bird is hung
The note from the donor leads
crew are plagued by misfortune.
dust during the Gold Rush, but
Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s “The Rime of the Ancient
other museums boast albatross
the sailors seem delighted. Without reason, the
and even ornate metal frames.
around his neck as punishment, and he and the
one to believe it held gold
For a bird whose death brings bad luck, we have
an unusual amount of albatross remains in the collection. On December 26, 1876, Captain Fred Smith noted in the logbook of the whaleship Ohio that he killed an albatross. His wife Sallie also mentioned
this in her journal, and they kept the skull as a peculiar souvenir. There is also an odd albatross bill plaque that belonged to Captain T. Turner of Nor-
wich. In both of these objects, one can see the external tubular nasal passages of the bird, which aid
22 | FALL / WINTER 2021
perhaps it was used to con-
tain “gold dust” tobacco. There
are no remnants of either in the
pouch, so we may never know the intended use of this curious container.
Krystal Rose is Curator of Collections. ABOVE CENTER: The albatross skull kept by Captain Fred Smith and his wife Sallie (1941.356). ABOVE RIGHT: Albatross foot used as a pouch (2008.16).
g n i v i G t f i G s a e Id
THE
GIFT OF
MEMBERSHIP TO MYSTIC SEAPORT MUSEUM GIFT-GIVING MADE EASY! When you gift friends or family membership to Mystic Seaport Museum, they receive: 2022 Art of the Boat Wall Calendar Featuring beautiful, iconic images from the Rosenfeld Collection at Mystic Seaport Museum, we offer our 2022 Art of the Boat wall calendar. $15.99 Size 10 ¼” x 13 ¾”, opens to 13 ¾’ x 20 ½”
Mystic Built: Ship & Shipyards on the Mystic River, Connecticut In this new and expanded edition of
Mystic Built, William Peterson draws on more than forty years of research in
manuscript archives, period newspapers, and historic photograph collections to
describe the individual shipbuilders and shipyards, place them in their local and
national contexts, and detail the histories of 563 vessels built in Mystic between 1784 and 1919. $59.95
• year-round free Museum admission; • discounts at the Museum stores, restaurants, summer camps, and more; • invitations to unique Member events and programs. Receive a gift certificate to wrap for each Membership you purchase! The Membership becomes active for one year on the day your gift recipient returns the completed form to the Membership Department. It’s easy!
To purchase, visit www.mysticseaport.org/gift or scan the QR code
To purchase these items and more visit us in store or online at shop.mysticseaport.org.
FALL / WINTER 2021
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23
75 Greenmanville Avenue PO Box 6000 Mystic, CT 06355-0990
Lantern Light Village A MEMORABLE HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA December 10, 11, 17, 18, 20, 21 and 22 TICKETS ON SALE NOW. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT, mysticseapor t.org/lanternlightvillage.