At left, Jim Corr works on charting with his students from the Wesley Highland School, Pittsburgh, Pennsylva nia. Photo by Darrell Sapp. At right, Corr and students aboard the Spirit -----'------- -- ---==::..c..:.L.....__ _ __:,.___ _ _-" of Massachusetts.
ing that hi s students track the vessel's 1988 voyage in the Caribbean. Learning latitude and long itude was only the beginning for the teenagers in Mr. Corr's classes. The students used computers to calculate the vessel ' s location based on speed , time and distance, learning real applications for math and science. Geography, hi story and library skills became part of the curriculum naturally as students researched the lands and peoples the crew of the Pride of Baltimore encountered. Through correspondence with the sailors and written reports, the students learned English and communication skills. Along the way, they learned ship architecture, naval terms, got the opportunity to sai l on the Pride of Baltimore and worked on the US Brig Niagara while she was being
outfitted in Erie, Pennsylvania. Some of the students who began this work on the Niagara are now members of her crew. Mr. Corr reports: "The main emphasis of these maritime projects is on adventure. Through the excitement of the maritime experience, kids see that all these subjects-math, computers, science, history, English-are applicable and interrelated. When manning a ship and charting its course, accuracy is important, handwriting is important, clarity is important. So they are not just learning about the sea, they are learning a work ethic. They learn to do things right the first time and not to slough off and be content with mediocrity. They learn that all the things they do reflect on themselves."
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Through these case studies and others to follow in Sea History 63 , the National Maritime Historical Society hopes to encourage schools and youth groups to develop original, imaginative programs using maritime history. As part of this effort, we are also looking for new case studies to add to our growing file. If you know of such a program, please send an account of it (with photos if possible) to Justine Ahlstrom, NMHS , PO Box 68 , Peekskill, New York 10566. To become involved in the Initiative, send for our Resource Packet ($20) which includes our Guide to Maritime Museums, the American Sail Training Association 's Directory of Sail Training Ships and Programs, detailed case studies, and a
guide to findin g and using resources in your own area. D
The Kendall Whaling Museum Treasures of maritime art, history, and nature spa nning six centuries and all seven continents, in an exquisite countryside setting just off 1-95 between Boston and Providence (ta ke the Sharon exit and follow the blue signs). Groups and tours welcome by appoi ntment. Musical programs, outreach programs, and films available.
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Sea History's Guide to American and Canadian Maritime Museums Our maritime world is bustli ng with activity and ripe for explorationon our lakes, waterfronts and seacoasts-and there are hundreds of instin1tio ns o ut there doing tl1e chall engin g and fasc in ating work of preserving our heritage. This book ina-oduces yo u to them al l! • Organized for quick reference •F ully illustrated •Travel -sized •Covers all exhibits, vessels, activities, programs, etc ... 113 pages, illus., contains 350 museum li stings, 97 photos, index of hisroric ships & more.
$11.50,
SEA HISTORY 62, SUMMER 1992
call or write: NMHS, PO Box 68, Peekskill NY 10566 (9 14 ) 737-7878
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