Monhegan’s Laura B is 80

PHOTO ESSAY BY JACK SULLIVAN

The Laura B makes the early-morning trip to Monhegan every day during the summer and delivers freight to the island year round. The boat is also available for private charters and for hauling freight to other islands.

Built in 1943, the 65-foot Laura B is rigged as a heavy-duty work boat. Originally designated a U.S. Army T-57, she spent World War II in the Pacific serving as a patrol boat and carrying troops and supplies. She came under fire during those days, and carried two 50-caliber machine guns on deck.

The vessel was brought to Maine in 1946 and spent the next few years transporting lobster from Vinalhaven to Boston and New York City.