In addition to his wealth of knowledge in matters of seamanship and maritime history, my dear friend Captain Walter Rybka has ever been, for many years, a thoughtful, insightful, and philosophical voice of leadership in the enterprise of building, maintaining, operating, and sharing the great sailing ships of our time as the inspirational wonders they are. No surprise there, as Walter is an inspiration himself, which fortunately, is something that never retires! —Captain Ray Ashley, PhD, President and CEO of the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
NOW 85,211 Vessels Online @ internationalmaritimelibrary.org This list is mostly compiled from the “List of Merchant Vessels of the United States” for the years 1867 to 1885+ and several other annuals. Several other sources have been used to expand the data. There are over 100 fields per vessel, but only the ones with a value will show up. Every three months a new version will be put up.
More databases to be added soon
Walter Rybka has been my captain, and over time has become my colleague and a friend. He has always made himself available to me for guidance, whether it is to teach me how to re-cut a headsail or organize a ship’s work party, or to enlighten me on historic ship preservation or the minutiae of how Oliver Hazard Perry managed to pull out a victory on Lake Erie in 1813. He leaves the maritime heritage community wiser, more reasonable, and grounded (though not aground), and I wish him all the best in his retirement. —Deirdre O’Regan, Editor, Sea History, and former Brig Niagara sailmaker Anne T. Converse Photography
Neith, 1996, Cover photograph
Wood, Wind and Water
A Story of the Opera House Cup Race of Nantucket Photographs by Anne T. Converse Text by Carolyn M. Ford Live vicariously through the pictures and tales of classic wooden yacht owners who lovingly restore and race these gems of the sea. “An outstanding presentation deserves ongoing recommendation for both art and nautical collections.” 10”x12” Hardbound book; 132 pages, 85 full page color photographs; Price $45.00
Greece, 1977—gauging Elissa’s hull plate thickness before she was brought to Texas.
For more information contact: Anne T. Converse Phone: 508-728-6210 anne@annetconverse.com www.annetconverse.com
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