The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum

a publication of the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum

The ChesapeakeWinter/spring 2013Log Mission Statement NEW! ADDED MEMBER BENEFITS The mission of the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Winter/Spring 2013 Museum is to inspire an understanding contents of and appreciation for the rich maritime heritage of the Chesapeake Bay and its Show your CBMM membership card tidal reaches, together with the artifacts, and receive: cultures and connections between this place and its people. • FREE admission to the Dorchester 14 18 25 Vision Statement County Historical Society in The vision of the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Cambridge, MD. Explore the Museum is to be the premier maritime history and traditions of Dorchester museum for studying, exhibiting, preserving and celebrating the important history and County and the Chesapeake Bay culture of the largest estuary in the United region. The “Heritage Museums States, the Chesapeake Bay. and Gardens of Dorchester” feature Sign up for our e-Newsletter and historic buildings, new exhibits, an stay up-to-date on all of the news and events at the Museum. Email expanded Museum Store, and an [email protected] to be added to enriching program of events. our mailing list. Located at 1003 Greenway Drive, CONNECT WITH US: Cambridge, MD. For more info, visit dorchesterhistory.org.

• REDUCED admission ($15) to the Philadelphia Antiques Show during facebook.com/mymaritimemuseum Museum Member Monday on April 15, 2013. Early admission at 10am includes twitter.com/CBMMorg a guided show tour, panel discussions, and the opportunity to lunch in the Museum youtube.com/CBMMorg1965 Member dining room for an additional $20. Experience the finest examples of Beautifulswimmers.tumblr.com 17th through 20th century decorative arts, needlework, jewelry, furniture, and Chesapeakeboats.blogspot.com important artwork. Advanced reservations encouraged by calling Ann Calvert at Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum 410-246-3046. Located at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadelphia, PA. Navy Point, PO Box 636 For more info, visit thephiladelphiaantiquesshow.org. St. Michaels, MD 21663 4 chairman’s message 11 lifelines 18 features 410-745-2916 • cbmm.org by CG Appleby Volunteer Profile: Lin Moeller Voices from the Past: Hours: by Marie Thomas Stories from Bronza Parks' Boatyard April to May, 9am–5pm by Dick Cooper June to August, 9am–6pm 5 president’s letter research SAVE THE DATE by Langley R. Shook 12 Sept. to Oct., 9am–5pm Community Conversations: 22 calendar for the 16th Annual Boating Party Gala on Nov. to March, 10am–4pm State of the Oyster currents Programs, member events, On the cover: 6 by Robert Forloney Saturday, September 14, 2013 Museum receives donations at special events, and more. “Admiral Cockburn burning & plundering What is the origin of ALL OysterFest; Winner of the Oyster Havre de Grace on the 1st of June 1813, those great ideas? on the rail done from a sketch taken on the spot at the Stew Competition; Shipwrights join 25 by Esty Collet time.” Attributed to William Charles, circa the Museum; New Bird & Decoy An update on the Rosie Parks 1813. Hambleton Print Collection. Carving Group; Museum extends project and the Apprentice For a Reprinted with permission from the living shoreline; Run for Team 13 education Day Public Boatbuilding Program. Maryland Historical Society. CBMM at St. Michaels Running What’s Fresh? Editors: Tracey Munson & Marie Thomas Festival; New Waterfowling Exhibit; Seasonal Selections from Education 27 What does your Creative Director: Marie Thomas Copy Editors: Mariana Lesher What's Up? Donates to CBMM. by Kate Livie donation buy? & Emilie Knud-Hansen Contributing Writers: 10 Curator’s corner 14 features CG Appleby, Esty Collet, Dick Cooper, Loaded with Meaning Shane Elliott, Robert Forloney, Eric Hervol, Navigating Freedom: The War of Kate Livie, Tracey Munson, Langley Shook, by Pete Lesher 1812 on the Chesapeake Marie Thomas by Kate Livie & Robert Forloney The Chesapeake Log is a publication of the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum.

2 winter/spring 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log winter/spring 2013 3 Chairman’s Message Board of Museum Staff President’s Letter Governors President by CG Appleby, Chairman of the Board 2012-2013 Langley R. Shook, President, 4951 by Langley R. Shook, President Cheryl Miller, Administrative Assistant, 4943 Breene M. Kerr Center As we prepare for another busy season CG Appleby, Chair for Chesapeake Studies The Museum’s 2012-2013 Annual Fund campaign here at the Museum, I can’t help but Tom D. Seip, Vice Chair Pete Lesher, Chief Curator, 4971 kicked off last spring with ambitions of setting a James P. Harris, Treasurer look back with pride at all we’ve accom- Richard Scofield, Assistant Curator of Watercraft, 4966 new record for the fourth year in a row. With the Richard C. Tilghman, Secretary Rob Forloney, Director of the Kerr Center, 4959 plished together over the past year— support of almost 900 of you—including over 100 Kate Livie, Director of Education, 4947 Schuyler Benson a sold-out Boating Party, new exhibits, Eric Applegarth, Exhibits Specialist, 4945 first-time donors—I am pleased to report we are Paul Berry robust educational programs, packed Lynne Phillips, Collections Manager, 4972 more than halfway to our $600,000 goal. Richard J. Bodorff festivals, engaged audiences, and a Helen Van Fleet, Education & Reservations Assistant, 4941 One of my favorite wintertime activities has Harry W. Burton Michelle Zacks, Museum Folklorist, 4961 record-breaking Charity Boat Auction, William S. Dudley been reading all the personal notes sent along with to name a few. David E. Dunn Boatyard your donations—scores of compliments, good Your enthusiasm for and support of Anna W. Fichtner Marc Barto, Rosie Parks Project Manager, 4967 suggestions and occasional constructive criticism. our work, coupled with the strong lead- Dagmar D. P. Gipe Mike Gorman, Vessel Maintenance Manager, 4967 Each gift has had its own meaning and value—like ership of Langley Shook and a talented E. Brooke Harwood, Jr. Jennifer Kuhn, Journeyman Apprentice the $50 gift from a local school teacher that can be Christopher A. Havener Shane Elliott, Shipwright Apprentice staff of professionals, means the used to buy fishing tackle and bait for a family to try their luck off Waterman’s Francis Hopkinson, Jr. Joe LaRochelle, Shipwright Apprentice Museum is charting a course toward Fred Israel Eric Hervol, Shipwright Apprentice Wharf at the Chesapeake Folk Festival, or the $250 gift from an Eastern a bright and meaningful future. Your Shoreman and wooden boat enthusiast to buy white oak for the world’s last Nancy & CG Appleby at the 2012 Boating Party. Pamela Jana Communications & Special Events Richard H. Kimberly support of the Museum, through your Tracey Munson, Vice President of Communications, 4960 surviving original bugeye Edna E. Lockwood, or the $13,000 gift from a Board Peter M. Kreindler generous donations to the Annual Fund, your membership, your involvement— Marie Thomas, Communications Manager, 4953 member that paid for a much needed new roof on our boatyard’s pole shed. Frank C. Marshall it all contributes to the success of this place and its mission to preserve the heritage Melissa Spielman, Director of Events & Though CBMM is more fortunate than most of its peers to have a sizable Geoffrey F. Oxnam of the Chesapeake Bay and its people. Volunteer Program, 4956 share of its budget funded by paid admissions and membership dues, charitable Bruce A. Ragsdale Ida Heelan, Events Coordinator, 4944 Almost a year has passed since the opening of Push and Pull: Life on Chesapeake Mitchell Reiss gifts nonetheless provide the lion’s share of the Museum’s revenue support. If you Bay Tugboats, and I still find myself drawn to the exhibit, fascinated by all of the Diane J. Staley Development have not already done so, please consider donating to this year’s Annual Fund Bay’s stories. These are real people with authentic stories, and you help to make Henry H. Stansbury David Crosson, Vice President of Development, 4984 that closes on April 30, or making a second gift. Take a look at what your dona- sure they are acknowledged and appreciated. Benjamin C. Tilghman, Jr. Constituent Services tion buys, on page 27, and rest easy in the knowledge that we put every penny This past September’s Boating Party fundraising gala was a shining example Alfred Tyler, 2nd René Stevenson, Vice President of to good use. Independent non-profit rating organizations like Charity Navigator Constituent Services, 4950 of the dedication that keeps this place running. More than 550 loyal Museum and GuideStar have commended our thriftiness. I invite you to check out their Emeriti Debbie Collison, Membership Manager, 4991 supporters, along with a dedicated corps of volunteers who host the annual fund- Richard T. Allen Emilie Knud-Hansen, Mem./Develop. Assistant, 4955 reviews at charitynavigator.org and guidestar.org. raiser, braved torrential downpours and high winds, coming together undeterred Margaret D. Keller Megan Fisher, Museum Host, 4945 We have a lot to look forward to this coming season, including the new exhibit by the bad weather to support a cause close to the heart. Breene M. Kerr Patti Meschino, Store Business Development Manager, 4954 Navigating Freedom: The War of 1812 on the Chesapeake, opening on May 11 in time Charles L. Lea, Jr. This year, as Nancy and I thought about our Annual Fund gifts to the Devon Duvall, Acting Store Manager, 4962 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the skirmish in St. Michaels. This exhibit D. Ted Lewers, MD Museum, those rain-soaked Boating Party attendees and volunteers came back Fred C. Meendsen Finance explores the impact of the War of 1812 on the people of the Chesapeake—black to mind. Their dedication to supporting the Museum’s work is a true indica- John C. North II Jean Brooks, Vice President of Finance, 4958 and white Americans, militiamen, Baltimore merchants, St. Michaels shipbuilders, tor of how worthy a cause the Museum offers. We can’t imagine a world where Sumner Parker Craig Atwood, Director of Finance, 4958 and British sailors who found opportunity or misfortune amid the conflict. the Chesapeake’s heritage and legacies aren’t shared and celebrated, much less Robert A. Perkins Digie McGuirk, Staff Accountant, 4957 (Read more on page 14). remembered. And so, Nancy and I increased our gift knowing the good our James K. Peterson Operations Thank you to those who’ve already made donations to our Museum’s Annual Norman H. Plummer donation does for the people served by this Museum. Bill Gilmore, Vice President of Operations, 4949 Fund, and to the more than 5,000 who renew your memberships year after year. John J. Roberts On behalf of the Board of Governors, I thank you for supporting this John Ford, Facilities Manager, 4970 Please take a moment to visit our YouTube page and watch a personal thank-you Henry H. Spire Lad Mills, Boat Donations Program Manager, 4942 Museum in all the ways you can—whether by increased, continued, or first time from our Museum staff. You also can find it at cbmm.org/give.htm. It’s just a small James E. Thomas Andrew Walter, Boat Donations Program gifts to the Annual Fund; or as a volunteer, member, or visitor, you are a stake- Joan Darby West Assistant Manager, 4942 token of our deep appreciation and gratitude for your continuing generosity that holder in ensuring what future generations will know about the Chesapeake Donald G. Whitcomb Sam Fairbank, Facilities Maintenance Assistant, 4969 remains the lifeblood of this institution we love. Joseph Redman, Facilities Maintenance Assistant, 4969 Bay. Thank you for making our mission and vision important, and keeping the Many thanks, Museum a part of your own legacy. To contact, dial 410-745, and the number listed. To email, use the first initial, full last name @cbmm.org.

4 winter/spring 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log winter/spring 2013 5 currents Museum receives donations at OysterFest Shipwrights join the Museum

he November 3 OysterFest brought hane Elliott of Knoxville, TN, Joe Larochelle of Quebec, 2,500 visitors to campus, despite Canada, and Eric Hervol of Seattle, WA, have joined chillyT weather and Superstorm Sandy Sthe Museum as shipwright apprentices. Elliott recently just a few days before. Four generations completed a nine-month diploma program at the Northwest of Parks family members once again met School of Wooden Boatbuilding in Port Hadlock, WA. He at the Museum to celebrate the legacies holds a bachelor’s of architecture degree from the University of brothers Bronza and Orville Parks, of Tennessee’s College of Architecture and Design in and to see the progress of the skipjack Knoxville. Elliott’s apprenticeship began with the project to Rosie Parks restoration project. restore the skipjack Rosie Parks. Elliott was introduced to the Bronza’s grandchildren Pres Harding Chesapeake Bay in 2005 while working an architecture job in and Brenda Goodwin donated several Shipwright apprentices Shane Elliott, Joe Larochelle, and Eric Hervol. Fells Point, Baltimore. After sailing with a friend, he built a hand tools used in boatbuilding by 12-foot plywood and epoxy dinghy, and hasn’t stopped build- Bronza, as well as campaign signs and other items he used for running as ing boats yet. Elliott continues as a longstanding volunteer County Commissioner shortly before his with the Living Classrooms Foundation’s shipboard programs untimely death. in Baltimore. During his one-year apprenticeship, he is the Muskoka region in Ontario, working on classic wooden Fordham Brewing Company from splitting his time between St. Michaels and Baltimore. runabouts. During his one-year apprenticeship, he is residing Dover, DE, served up their popular Joe Larochelle began his apprenticeship working on the in St. Michaels. oyster stout recipe. Fordham donated a 1889 bugeye Edna E. Lockwood. He also brings a unique Eric Hervol began his apprenticeship with restoration portion of the profits from the sale of the talent to his apprenticeship by offering interpretation of work on the skipjack Rosie Parks. Hervol recently completed Rosie Parks Oyster Stout to the Museum. the Museum’s historic vessels and restoration work to a nine-month diploma program at the Northwest School of French-speaking visitors. Larochelle recently earned his Wooden Boatbuilding in Port Hadlock, WA. He also holds (top) Members of the Parks family and Museum Comprehensive Boat Building Certificate of Completion bachelor of arts degrees in computer science, mathematics staff members gather for a photo at OysterFest. from the Great Lakes Boatbuilding School in Cedarville, and biology from Washington University in St. Louis, MO. (left) Chief Curator Pete Lesher, President Langley MI. Prior to Great Lakes, he also completed a woodwork- Hervol was introduced to the Chesapeake Bay in October Shook, Pres Harding, and Brenda Goodwin. ing program at the L’École des Métiers du Meubles School 2012, while helping a friend move a boat to St. Michaels. His (right) Vice President of Communications in Montreal. Larochelle became connected to the Museum volunteer experience includes work with Friends of Trees in Tracey Munson, Chief Curator Pete Lesher, President Langley Shook, President and CEO of through the recommendation of a former shipwright appren- Portland, OR, Creve Coeur Fire Department in Missouri, Fordham and Dominion Brewing Jim Lutz, and tice, Bud McIntire. McIntire currently serves as Director of and as a teacher on the schooner Adventuress out of Port Fordham Marketing Coordinator Lauren Bigelow. Development & Student Services for the Great Lakes Boat Townsend, WA. During his one-year apprenticeship, he is Building School. This past summer, Larochelle worked in living in St. Michaels.

Inn at Perry Cabin wins oyster stew competition NEW: CBMM Bird & Instructor Larry Parker, left, is helping Bob ix restaurants competed in the Museum’s November 3 Oyster Stew Decoy Carving Group Herman, right, Competition at OysterFest, with more than 300 participants taking part learn techniques inS blind taste tests and voting by ballot for their favorite stew. Sherwood’s used for decoy carving. Landing’s oyster stew placed first, and was served as stew ‘A’ in the tastings. group of volunteer bird and decoy carvers are now OysterFest participants also picked St. Michaels Harbour Inn’s Harbour meeting at the Museum on Thursdays and Fridays to Lights oyster stew (stew ‘E’) as second, with third place going to Gourmet by Ashare the tradition with other CBMM members interested the Bay (stew ‘B’). All restaurants are located in St. Michaels, MD. in carving. For more information or if you’d like to join the group, please contact CBMM Volunteer Gene Rall at (right) Inn at Perry Cabin General Manager Stephanie Mehail, left, and Executive Sous Chef Caleb Taylor of the Inn’s Sherwood’s Landing Restaurant, right, recently accepted a plaque 410-829-8368. from the Museum for winning the Oyster Stew Competition at the 2012 OysterFest.

6 winter/spring 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log winter/spring 2013 7 currents Museum receives New Exhibit opens April 12: grants to extend Crisfield Carvings–Bird Hunting on Broad Waters

he city of Crisfield, MD, lies amid the vast stretches of Living Shoreline marshland ringing Tangier Sound—an ideal habitat for Tthe migratory birds that pass through every fall on their way south. Although well known as the seafood capital for the he Museum recently received a grant from oysters and crabs that were packed there, Crisfield is just as the Chesapeake Bay Trust (CBT), National well known for decoy carving in a distinctive local style. The TOceanic and Atmospheric Administration Ward brothers—Lem and Steve—were the most famous of (NOAA), Maryland Department of Natural them, but Crisfield produced many more carvers, and hunters Resources, and the Maryland Department of the purchased their decoys for use far beyond these local waters. Environment to extend its living shoreline from Crisfield's waterfowling and carving traditions are nearly Waterman’s Wharf to the property line bordering The Inn protect shorelines from erosion while also providing critical as old as the city itself. Founded after the Civil War, when a at Perry Cabin. Additional funding was provided through a habitat for fish, crabs, and other wildlife. NOAA, a found- railroad spur line was extended across the marshes to reach generous Crystal Trust grant. ing partner of the Living Shorelines program, has funded the waters of Tangier Sound, downtown Crisfield is built on The $60,000 CBT grant is part of the total $800,000 68 on-the-ground projects in local communities, creating oyster shells—the discarded byproduct of the fishing indus- awarded to 16 homeowner associations, non-profit organiza- to date 28,000 linear feet of living shoreline and 18 acres try that built the city. Lem and Steve Ward outside their shop in Crisfield, MD. Photograph tions and municipalities throughout Maryland and Virginia, of wetland habitat. The Museum completed the first two by A. Aubrey Bodine. Copyright Jennifer B. Bodine. Courtesy of Will Sterling and Travis Ward, Sr., father of the Ward designed to encourage the installation and understanding of phases of its living shoreline in 2009, and is eager to finish aaubreybodine.com. brothers, were among the first generation of decoy carvers in living shorelines throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed. the project. such as mergansers and loons. Among the more unusual Now in its seventh year, CBT's Living Shorelines program “Our living shoreline has been a big success. It not only the community. They created a local style that was marked has awarded more than four million dollars and leveraged helps to improve water quality, it also adds natural beauty. by a broad, flat bottom, which gave the duck or goose decoy species for decoys were flickers (locally “hammers”), which seven million dollars in matching funds from landown- We love to see both kids and adults looking for all of the maximum stability to minimize its wobble in the choppy, were hunted widely in the area and carved by several area ers throughout Maryland and Virginia. Living shorelines animal life it holds,” said Museum President Langley Shook. open waters of Tangier Sound. Unlike other waterfowl decoy makers. employ a shoreline stabilization technique which uses For more information on the Chesapeake Bay Trust’s Living hunting regions, the local waterfowlers—and the decoy Crisfield’s waterfowling traditions are featured in natural habitat elements, instead of bulkhead or riprap, to Shoreline program, visit cbtrust.org. carvers who supplied them—did not concentrate entirely on Crisfield Carvings—Bird Hunting on Broad Waters, a special these most popular ducks, but hunted almost every species exhibit in the Museum’s Waterfowling Building with a of bird that passed through the area, from herons (locally member’s preview opening on Friday, April 12, 2013. The “buncutties” and “wops”) on down to song birds. They exhibit will open to the public the following day and remain Run for CBMM at the May 18 St. Michaels Running Festival carved—and hunted—bird species that were widely enjoyed through Sunday, November 3, 2013. See the calendar of as table fare, but also birds that fed on fish and shellfish, events on page 22 for more information. he Museum recently joined the St. Michaels Running Festival as an official charity partner, and is looking for Trunner and walkers to help build the CBMM Team for this What’s Up? Media donates May 18, 2013 event. Every participant who signs up now for the Festival’s Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum Team will proceeds to CBMM help raise much needed funds in support of our mission. The event includes a USA Track & Field (USTAF) certified half marathon course, a 10k course, and a 5k course. When you sign up, the St. Michaels Running Festival will What’s Up? Media publisher and president Veronica Tovey donate 10% of all team registration fees to the Museum. In (pictured left) presents a check for $2,000 to the Chesapeake addition, runners can commit to raising additional funds Bay Maritime Museum. The Museum was one of several through the Festival’s online charity platform. For more information, visit: beneficiaries of What’s Up? Media’s annual Best Of Party, runstm.com or email [email protected] celebrated in June. Also pictured are Museum President Langley Shook and Communications Manager Marie Thomas. 8 winter/spring 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log winter/spring 2013 9 curator’s corner lifelines Loaded with Meaning Volunteer Profile: Lin Moeller by Pete Lesher by Marie Thomas

hen the British brig Conflict sailed up the Miles River hortly after a 2009 move to the Eastern Shore with with 11 small boats in tow under cover of early morn- husband Peter, Lin Moeller signed up to volunteer at the Wing darkness on August 10, 1813, they were expected. With SMuseum. As a science teacher in Annapolis, Lin frequently no regular Army units available, militia units from all over brought students to the Museum on field trips and was Talbot County assembled in and around St. Michaels for familiar with the educational programs offered, and about a week in advance of the attack. The Royal Marines knew the value of docent volunteers intimately. landed just south of the town and overtook the battery on “As I was retiring from teaching, being a docent was Oyster Restoration Program. When she’s not at the Museum, Parrott’s Point at the mouth of the harbor. perfect in maintaining my interest in the Bay and working Lin also volunteers with the United Fund of Talbot County After spiking the cannon to render it useless, they with children,” explains Lin, who primarily leads students and Christmas in St. Michaels, and enjoys kayaking, garden- returned to their boats and proceeded to turn their guns on on Bay History and Bay Bounty Tours, and the Oystering ing, photography, drawing, Colonial history studies, geneal- the town. The militia’s artillery batteries inside the town Legacy Program. In addition, Lin is involved with the Crab ogy, and bible study. returned fire. According to militia General Perry Benson’s Cakes Program and serves as a crew member on the Mister official report, “some of the houses were perforated, but no Chief Curator Pete Lesher holds an early American military musket Jim during ecology cruises, as well as helping with kids’ You too can volunteer at the Museum! injury to any living being.” donated to the Museum last year. On the lock, its few markings summer camps and assisting the Director of Education with HENRY and CP make it identifiable as the work of William Henry II, The British attacked again on August 26, landing at “ ” “ ” developing special tours. Support the Museum’s mission by: of Nazareth PA. Wade’s Point and advancing on St. Michaels by road from “My favorite part of volunteering is getting students • staffing special events the north, but they turned back again when they reached actively involved in what the Museum has to offer, to • guiding tours • leading kids programs imagine and experience living in various time periods and a wooden section that made a column of troops vulnerable. another account credited a different militiaman with the • welcoming & educating visitors The defenders of St. Michaels numbered perhaps 500, and warning shot. Family history has not shed light on which of taking on the roles of a Native American, a waterman, a • gardening they came from companies all around Talbot County, and these defenders used the musket that survives. And for the lighthouse keeper, and so on,” says Lin. “Along with this, • helping in the boatyard a few beyond. One of the largest companies was the moment it remains a mystery why a Pennsylvania militia encouraging students to think about and become aware of • answering phones St. Michaels Patriotic Blues, with just over 100 officers and musket made it into the hands of a Maryland militiaman, changes that have taken place over the last 400 years.” • helping with on-the-water programs • assisting store staff men. These were citizen-soldiers, local farmers, tradesmen, but the stories reveal a rich history. Even with its history Lin’s connection to history and the outdoors runs deep. • supporting library & curatorial functions even day laborers who were called up in the face of an emer- clouded in mystery, the gun is emblematic of the citizen- Originally from the small rural town of Canton, CT, Lin • cultivating new members gency. Among the defenders were ten men named Porter, soldiers who were called to defend towns all around the grew up on a 1700s Colonial farm, close to where her Through a series of informative and hands-on orientation sessions, three of them in this company—John, Philip, and Perry, Chesapeake—typically with less success than they had ancestors first settled in the area in the 1600s. After graduat- the Museum provides volunteers with a wealth of knowledge and Perry himself lived on Mulberry Street in the heart at St. Michaels. ing from Eastern Connecticut State University with a degree about Chesapeake culture, history, and its environment. All of the town he defended. Of the other seven, James Porter in education, Lin and Peter eventually settled in Maryland, volunteers participate in basic training sessions and have the When the war ended, militiamen were generally allowed opportunity to expand their knowledge with specialized training served in a Miles River Neck company, Tibbels Porter to purchase their guns, and that is probably how this musket where she earned a master’s of education from the University sessions, focusing on specific topics and programs. Contact and Benjamin Porter in two different Bayside companies, descended in the family. Although intended for military use, of Maryland at College Park, and their daughter Susanne was Melissa Spielman at 410-745-4956 for more information, or William Porter and Woolman Porter from Miles River, it was just as easily used with bird shot to bring home a duck born in 1989. email [email protected]. Isaac Porter from Wye Landing, and Robert L. Porter with or a goose. When it came to the Museum, it still had an old Over the course of her teaching career, Lin taught pre- Docent Volunteer Training, Van Lennep Auditorium kindergarten through 8th grade, spending 20 years at Holy the Easton Fencibles. black powder load with bird shot. These sessions are for docents who have completed the annual General Tour Last year, the Museum received an early American Such muskets are not scarce, and most, like this one, Trinity Episcopal School in Bowie, where she also served as Training. The two-part sessions offer background and content information, military musket. On the lock, its few markings “HENRY” had the original flintlock replaced with a percussion lock for the Director of Admissions and Development. The last ten as well as practical applied instruction in CBMM’s exhibits and campus. Both years of teaching were spent at the Annapolis Area Christian sessions are mandatory for each program training to be successfully completed. and “CP” make it identifiable as the work of William Henry, more reliable firing. But what makes this gun special is its Contact Director of Education Kate Livie at [email protected] or 410-745-4947 II, of Nazareth, PA, who contracted to make 2,000 of these connection with the efforts of American citizens to defend School, where she taught 6th grade science and 8th grade for more information or to register. math. Lin was responsible for reshaping the science curricu- guns for Commonwealth of Pennsylvania militia use. Porter their homes on the Chesapeake Bay against the British Bay Bounty Tour Training: March 7 & 8 from 10am -12:30pm family legend purports the musket was used by a family during the War of 1812. The musket will be a part of the lum into a combined hands-on study of life and environmental Bay Discovery Tour Training: March 14 & 15 from 10am -12:30pm member who fought in the militia during the battle of new exhibit, Navigating Freedom: The War of 1812 on the sciences, with a primary focus on Chesapeake Bay studies. Oystering Legacy Tour Training: March 21 & 22 from 10am -12:30pm St. Michaels, and may have fired a warning shot to alert Chesapeake, which opens on May 11. Read more about the Lin and Peter currently live in Arcadia Shores in Crab Cakes Program Training: March 28 & 29 from 10am -12:30pm the various militia companies to the British arrival—though exhibit on page 14. St. Michaels and raise oysters at their dock for the Maryland 10 winter/spring 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log winter/spring 2013 11 research education

Community Conversations: State of the Oyster What’s Fresh? CBMM Summer Sailing Program Seasonal Selections from Education instructor & volunteers needed by Robert Forloney by Kate Livie Help the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum teach the he Museum’s Center for Chesapeake Studies, in conjunc- his winter, as tion with the Maryland Humanities Council, presents campus cleared fun, excitement, and adventure of sailing on the Miles Tthe State of the Oyster Program—the first in an annual series Tof school children River! We are seeking sailing instructors and volunteers of public programming initiatives entitled “Community and summer visi- to assist the Education Department with teaching chil- Conversations,” that emphasize public discussion and tors, the Education dren and adults the fundamentals and technical skills of outreach to new audiences. The State of the Oyster Program Department took sailing on our JY 15 vessels. will focus on the status of the oyster fishery and its past, advantage of the All instructors must be certified in Boaters Safety present, and future significance to different Bay communities relative quiet to and/or lifeguarding through the American Red Cross. over the course of four Sunday afternoons in late February offer a slate of fun Applicants for the head sailing instructor position must and early March. programs to keep additionally be US Sailing Certified Level 1. Volunteers These programs will pose the question of whether and how Museum members, must have prior sailing experience. Sailing Program oyster production can continue as a backbone of the region’s volunteers, and the Look for information about the Summer instructors and volunteers must be safe, patient, and culture and economy. While biological aspects of the “oyster of oystering. Programs include presentations by historians wider world engaged Sailing Program in the summer issue of good at explaining concepts and techniques of sailing. question” will be addressed, the primary focus will be on the and scientists as well as oyster harvesters and processors. In The Chesapeake Log. in our mission as the Candidates must have experience and skill working with cultural and social dynamics of this issue. One of the most addition, questions and comments from the audience and medi- bitter cold settled in significant goals of the project is to host public forums where ated group discussions between the presenters and the public children and should be excellent communicators and and even the geese on Fogg’s Cove hunkered down. stakeholders holding different, and in some cases conflicting, will be emphasized. Throughout the duration of this project, teachers. This has been a highly successful program for Looking ahead, we’ve got a spring and summer season perspectives can have meaningful conversations. photographs and paintings depicting the daily activities of our youth and family audiences. that’s bursting with every educational opportunity you The Maryland Humanities Council has provided the watermen will be displayed in the Van Lennep Auditorium, Employment dates: June 10th – August 28th seed money for this innovative project which will also providing a stimulus for reflection and conversation. can imagine: training sessions, workshops, classes, camps, include an art exhibition, original video production, and Video clips of watermen engaged in activities such lectures, paddles, and festivals. But you don’t have to be To apply for an instructor position, please send resume new research as part of the overall program. Each session as tonging, the inner workings of processing plants, and on the Eastern Shore to take advantage of CBMM’s educa- with references to Human Resources, Chesapeake will examine a particular aspect of this complicated topic: scientists engaged in actual field work will be shown at tional content—through our education blog, Beautiful Bay Maritime Museum, P. O. Box 636, St. Michaels, Swimmers, beautifulswimmers.tumblr.com, the compelling the social history of Chesapeake oyster production and the beginning of each program in order to provide context Maryland 21663 or e-mail [email protected]. conservation; the causes of the oyster crash; the traditions, for the topics being discussed. There will be something to stories, photographs, and history that make Chesapeake expertise, and perspectives of watermen; and the possibili- engage all participants and learning styles. Please refer to Bay and this museum so unforgettable are at your fingertips, ties and consequences for addressing the imperiled state the calendar of events on page 22 for specific dates and times. wherever you are.

ALL is a learning cooperative, and the majority of course we hope you will consider joining us. Whether or not you What is the origin of ALL those great ideas? ideas and instructors come from our membership. We are are a member, we invite you to consider leading a course not your typical continuing education program with a stan- or program. This coming May we are offering a workshop by Esty Collet dard curriculum—our courses grow organically from the to gather ideas for new course selections and to encourage interests and expertise of our membership. prospective course leaders. The workshop is an opportunity If you live on the Eastern Shore of Maryland you know to work together to consider potential new course ideas, or nearly twelve years, the Academy for Lifelong the area is full of individuals with extraordinary life expe- as well as a time for experienced course leaders to provide Learning (ALL) at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime riences, diverse points of view, and lots of know-how in support and training for new leaders. If you have an idea FMuseum has offered a wide variety of lectures, round table many different fields. From Shakespeare to American art, but are not sure how to put it together, we can provide a discussions, workshops, and field trips. ALL’s 300 members from the Big Bang to health and well-being, from iPads mentor to advise you on getting started. choose from 15 to 20 different programs each season. Have to boating, from political science to the history of God, Details on the May workshop will be forthcoming, but you ever wondered where we get all those great ideas? Well the from quilting to writing, and more—our programs are as feel free to address inquiries to the curriculum committee at answer is simple—we get our ideas from people just like you. rich and varied as our membership. ALL is a community [email protected]. If you would like a copy of the current course committed to the exploration of ideas, exchanging knowl- catalog call Helen Van Fleet at 410-745-4941. Visit us on (left) Joan Katz and George Merrill regularly offer popular courses for the Academy of Lifelong Learning. (Photo courtesy of Wilson Wyatt, Jr.) edge and sharing experiences. If you are not yet a member Facebook and/or check out our website at cbmm.org/all.

12 winter/spring 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log winter/spring 2013 13 Navigating Freedom: The War of 1812 on the Chesapeake

The first of its kind, this new exhibit explores the War as seen through the eyes of the men and women who lived through it. Here is just one of their stories. by Kate Livie & Robert Forloney

he barest finger of a breeze stirred the sultry Chesapeake air that Tsummer day in 1814 on Doctor John “State of Maryland Calvert County To Wit. On the 12th day of May Eighteen hundred and Beall’s plantation. It whispered through twenty eight personally appeared Barbara Fowler who made oath on this Holy Evangely of Almighty God that at the time of the British troops acting under the command of Capt. the acres of leathery tobacco leaves, and Nourse, burnt the Court house in said County, that Negro Frisby the property of William stopped the saline bead descending Harris late of said County dead, were in company with said troops with a sword by his side down Frisby Harris’ forehead. and that she never understood that he has any surname and further saith not. Swornto Frisby, “a slave of so useful abilities” before, Levin W Ballard.” This eyewitness account and others are reprinted with permission from the National Archives and Records Administration. according to his owner’s agent D.A. “Admiral Cockburn burning & plundering Havre de Grace on the 1st of June 1813.” Attributed to William Charles, circa 1813. Hambleton Print Hall, had been hired out in the thick Collection. Reprinted with permission from the Maryland Historical Society. of the growing season to the tobacco din of hundreds of voices, the odor of unwashed bodies in and wheat farm on God’s Graces Point. The plantation’s woolens permeated by sweat, billowed upriver magnificently flat expanse of farmland opened its eyes to the river, look- and for plantation owners, malignantly, literally on the When the British boots touched the and reportedly “acting as an officer” in the distance and fleeing in small ing downstream and out to the flowing main body of the doorstep. This was a summer of heat but also of dread and shoreline and picked their way inland according to another witness, Robert Yoe. craft and skiffs to the protection and Chesapeake Bay, the economic lifeblood and highway of hope. British ships like these crossed the tributaries of the through the tuckahoe and cattail to Frisby Harris’ dramatic turn from the liberty offered by the enemy of the far-flung farms like these. The muddy oxbows and marshy Chesapeake, burning, looting, blockading, and demoralizing burn and loot, Harris cast off his toil Patuxent slave to corporal in the Royal United States. He also represents the switchbacks of the Patuxent may not have looked like it, the new Americans of the Bay country’s tidewater. and joined their ranks. As the big house Marines is just one of the extraordi- untold, overshadowed stories that linger but they and other Bay tributaries were the most important But the slaves of these lowlands saw possibility in the burned at God’s Graces Point and the nary narratives told by CBMM’s new behind and between the battles, the connection the early Republic had with the outside world, unannounced arrival of the British warships, which caused fine Georgian paneling charred and exhibit, Navigating Freedom: The War of patriotism, the “bombs bursting in air” carrying wheat, tobacco, and timber away and flooding back such a clamor and uproar amongst their masters. The turned to ash, Frisby Harris helped loot 1812 on the Chesapeake. (Documentation and the tales of bravery that permeate again with fine Madeira, ceramics, fabric, and human flesh. British had proclaimed in April of that year that freedom, Dr. Beall’s furniture. of Harris' account provided by the most of our public concepts and stereo- To Frisby Harris, it must have seemed like an appari- the most desperately sought and terribly elusive goal, was Less than a week later, as the British Study of the Legacy of Slavery in types about the War of 1812. tion on the horizon—an enormous British frigate under to be rewarded to any slave able to escape to such a warship. soldiers torched the Calvert County Maryland, Maryland State Archives.) In Navigating Freedom, we explore sail, towering several stories above both the water line and For many Chesapeake slaves, the 18 year-old Frisby Harris courthouse, Harris was observed by Harris represents the thousands of the War of 1812 through these unlauded, the smaller native Chesapeake vessels that regularly traf- included, that proclamation of freedom was a clarion call to eyewitness Barbara Fowler “in company slaves who escaped during the conflict, forgotten Chesapeake residents of many ficked the Patuxent River. A floating barracks, with the action during the summer of 1814. with said troops with a sword by his side” spotting British warships approaching creeds and colors who found opportunity 14 winter/spring 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log winter/spring 2013 15 or misfortune amid the conflict: black and white everyday Americans, For Navigating Freedom, the Museum militiamen, Baltimore merchants, received more than $110,000 in St. Michaels shipbuilders, and Quakers. support from the Maryland Heritage Their diaries, artifacts, portraits, and Areas Authority and a Star Spangled articles reveal their personal stories, 200 grant from the Maryland War of and the new ways the War of 1812 on 1812 Bicentennial Commission. the Chesapeake challenged American This includes funding for the ideas about freedom. outside expert consultants as well as The Exhibition the exhibition development, innovative interactives, on-line virtual exhibition, Navigating Freedom: The War of 1812 a school curriculum with associated on the Chesapeake is a groundbreaking teacher workshops and a variety of exhibit, both here at the Chesapeake public programming. Aside from the Bay Maritime Museum and on a physical exhibition itself, this War of national scale as well. While traditional 1812 initiative will have a series of interpretations of the conflict tend to long-lasting and diverse products for focus on major land and naval battles, a number of audiences. illustrious American and British heroes, and the political machinations of nation against nation, Navigating Freedom explores the transformation, Partners impact and legacy of the War of 1812 • Study of the Legacy of Slavery in Maryland, Maryland State Archives through the lives of the men and • Center for Environment women directly affected by the political, and Society’s GIS Program, economic, and emotional upheaval. Washington College I The sources of these intimate L the of courtesy mage • Dr. Alan Taylor accounts of a national struggle are the • Dr. Jennifer Dorsey product of new research from a variety • Talbot County Public Schools of collaborators including CBMM’s • National Park Service own Center for Chesapeake Studies (CCS): Study of the Legacy of Slavery Funding

in Maryland Program at the Maryland C of ibrary • Maryland Heritage Areas Authority State Archives, Pulitzer-prize winning • Star Spangled 200 Grant from the historian Dr. Alan Taylor, and Dr. Maryland War of 1812 Bicentennial

Jennifer Dorsey, professor and author ongress. Commission of Hirelings: African-American Workers and Free Labor in Early Maryland, among others. A team of expert curatorial and design professionals led by Rick Beard, DON'T MISS: Laura Friedman and Ken Yellis helped translate the extensive original research How Escaped Slaves into an exhibit that dynamically Liberated the British connects the visitor with the War of and American naval commanders lab at Washington College to generate echoes of war. Navigating Freedom opens interactive online exhibit, curriculum Wednesday, April 10 1812 as seen through the perspec- broad of skill in sail and chance, a 3D virtual flyover of the Battle of on Saturday, May 11, 2013. Members materials, teacher workshops, and a wide 6-8pm, Van Lennep Auditorium tives of Bay folk across the social plantation owners who traded with St. Michaels, as well as maps highlight- are invited for a special guided tour variety of public programs for all ages. $8 members, $10 non-members and economic spectrum—slaves who the enemy under the protection of ing the cultural landscapes of the area. with CCS Director Robert Forloney, For more information about this Pre-register with Helen Van Fleet became free and settled in Nova a white flag, and their slaves who Through their own words and artifacts, beginning at 11am. initiative, contact Robert Forloney at at 410-745-4941. Scotia as British citizens, shipbuild- guided the British through the Navigating Freedom allows voices of Additional stories, research, and [email protected] or call 410-745-4959. Read more on page 23. ers in St. Michaels, a captured Quaker Chesapeake’s swampy inlets. In addi- the past to explain how no one in the activities will be shared with the public More information is also available mother and her small children, British tion, CCS partnered with the GIS Chesapeake was protected from the beyond CBMM’s campus through an online at cbmm.org.

16 winter/spring 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log winter/spring 2013 17 feature

wo decades ago, Trudi Jones of They talked about the hard work do good work and I always prided Cambridge, MD, was a young in an era before electricity and the myself in the work that he taught Voices from the Past: Tmother looking for insights into camaraderie of life in a small tidewater me to do.” family legends surrounding the life town. And they talked about the life Jones asks a similar question of O’Neal and times of her famous boatbuild- skills and personal kindness Bronza Dean who says, ing grandfather, Bronza Parks. She Parks imparted to them. Looking back, was just three years old in 1958 when Jones says what she learned from the “I had just come out of the Navy Stories from Parks was shot to death in his Wingate, men seemed to satisfy her quest. and the first job I got I worked for Dorchester County, boatshop by a “I just never felt moved to pursue it a guy there in Cambridge and we deranged customer during a dispute further.” She gave copies of the tapes had to ride the buses back then over a bill. Jones has no memory of to family members, including her and I thought why can’t I find a Bronza Parks’ Boatyard her grandfather but grew up listen- cousin, Pres Harding of Chestertown, job here locally so went down and ing to her mother, grandmother and who was collecting Parks family asked him if he had any work. family friends tell stories about the memorabilia. He says, ‘Well, what can you do?’ big man with the rough hands who And that’s where the tapes sat. And I said, ‘Just about nothing.’ left an indelible mark on the history of But like other aspects of the legend He says, ‘Well you’re just the man Chesapeake Bay watercraft. of Bronza Parks, there has been a I’m lookin’ for. Cuz I tell ya just “I don’t know why I needed to know renewed interest in his life and work about everybody I hire, if they’s more about him, but I felt moved to since the Chesapeake Bay Maritime done carpenter work, they want to do so,” Jones recalls. “I am a spiritual Museum began the restoration of do it the way they want to. person and a Christian and I just felt one of his most famous vessels, the This way, I get someone like you moved by God to do this.” skipjack Rosie Parks. Now in its final says you don’t know anything So in 1992, armed with little more year, the project directed by Master about it, then you’ll learn my way than her drive to learn more, along Shipwright Marc Barto, will see and that’ll be the way I want it with her children’s plastic Fisher Price the Rosie relaunched and reborn in done.’ So that’s the way it started, tape recorder, she tracked down two November, 2013. right there.” of Bronza’s protégées, who were by Jones’ tapes bring to life the voices then getting on in years themselves. of the men who worked side-by-side Both Tom and O’Neal Dean talked at She started her project by calling the with Bronza Parks from the 1930s start length about the long hours and hard family friends whom she had known of his company right up to his untimely physical work, but they did so with a most of her life, Tom Dean and F. death. Tom Dean was one of Bronza’s sense of pride and accomplishment. O’Neal Dean. first crew members. O’Neal Dean, who As Tom Dean put, it “You either did “I told them at the time that I was was almost 10 years younger that Tom, the work or someone else would.” Tom thinking about writing something and started working for Bronza right after Dean’s experiences, however, started in I wanted to make sure it was accurate.” World War II. Here are some of Tom the days long before South Dorchester Tom, who passed away in 2001 at the and O’Neal Deans’ responses to ques- County received electricity. In one age of 83, and O’Neal, who was 78 tions posed by Jones in March, 1992: exchange, he talks about boatbuilding in the early 1930s. when he died in 2006, were both from “Now, Tom, can you tell me when Wingate but not related. Each of them you first started working for Papa?” “It was hard work. You didn’t get spent more than an hour in separate a ten minute break. You didn’t get “That was one of my first jobs. We telephone interviews with Jones. They a smoke break. You worked from recalled their first jobs working for were making gasoline boats, workboats. I was making $6 a week. 7am until 11:30 and you had lunch Parks, his work ethic, his demand for and then you worked from noon the highest quality and his occasional We were workin’ 60 hours a week by Dick Cooper and we were selling workboats, to five. That was a time when light side. (“Bronzy could be quite everybody worked. comical, once you got to know him,” all completed with motors and Photos courtesy of O’Neal Dean is heard saying.) everything for $600 ready for the The hardest work was when we Mary Parks Harding man to go crabbin’ in. I worked got a whole log in and we hewed with my father on the water but & Trudi Jones (left) Tom Dean, O’Neal Dean, Ralph Ruark the keelson out with an axe. playing music while waiting for the tide to as far as building boats, I had no There would be two of us with come up before launching a new boat. knowledge about building boats axes and chop that keelson out Circa 1950, Parks Family Collection. at all. He (Bronza) taught me to and shaped it up. 18 winter/spring 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log winter/spring 2013 19 feature

“There was no Skil Saws back then, we didn’t have I told this guy, ‘You know you got and then Bronzy wanted us to go memories of the boatyard days was electricity. You had to do it all by hand. We had to some kinks in there and I don’t to Annapolis. So we went and all, the launching time. saw everything with a plain old handsaw.” think Bronza’s going to like that.’ and that was part of the advertis- “That was a great day. Oh that Among the early boats he helped build were the He says, ‘They don’t look all that ing that the boats had the fare lines. was fun. We always had a great And I think he got some boats Martha, the dove-tailed workboat in CBMM’s floating bad to me.’ celebration. I was in a band from us being on that station.” fleet, and the skipjack Wilma Lee. By the time O’Neal That evening I stayed later. at that time with Charles and Dean came to work at the Wingate boatyard, Bronza So (Bronza) come home from O’Neal says that Bronza Parks O’Neal. We used to play music Parks had established a reputation for not only being a Cambridge and climbed up inside. boats of the time were distinctive under the boat waiting for the workboat craftsman, but also for building fine yachts for ‘He says, ‘You wouldn’t have a because of the attention to every detail. launching time. Everyone was the more distinguished gentleman sailor and sportsman. hatchet in that tool box would ya?’ “It was just a process of working jolly and always this favorite song. To build finer vessels required more exotic woods than I said, ‘Ya, I got one.’ at it and it paid off because when He always got us to sing and play it for him. ‘Just a Closer Walk the Eastern Shore forests could provide. O’Neal recalls Well he went up in there and the boat went out and you looked With Thee.’ That was his favorite one trip to Baltimore to find wood that could hold a shine. I hear all this choppin.’ He cut at it, it would catch your eye. Like song. After that, we would have He starts to tell the story about a trip but his telling is every bit out of there that that a car all shined up, you just turn a half-day off and then come interrupted by a chuckle. guy was all day long puttin’ in around and take that second look.” Monday mornin’ we were back “It was kind of funny. Bronza was comical, once you there. He cut every daggone piece By the mid-1950s, B.M. (the ‘M’ stands putting a keel down.” “When we were working, he [Bronza] got to know him. He’d have his spurts, he could fly of it right out. He says, ‘I don’t for Malone) Parks Boat Builders was Near the end of the recording, always liked to get the boats looking hot on somethin’ right quick, but he was the other understand it. Some people can’t turning out 25 work and pleasure way too. We went to get some lumber and Bronzy see right. He knew I wouldn’t like boats a year. “I am sure that there were Trudi pauses and asks “Tom, I have better and styled better and have the told him we was looking for some good mahogany.” it and I tore every piece of it out.’ 10, 11 or 12 boats going there at one one request. Would you sing, ‘A Closer When we were working, he always Walk With Thee?’” fare lines. Fare lines means there aren’t Dean says the salesman showed them wood that “wasn’t time,” O’Neal recalls. liked to get the boats looking Dean, who was then 73, doesn’t any little bumps. Fare lines means they very wide and wasn’t very long and it wasn’t very pretty. One family legend that Trudi Jones better and styled better and have miss a beat and slips into an a cappella are pleasant to the eye. Fare lines is not tries to track down with O’Neal is an “Bronzy says, ‘My gosh Captain, ain’t you got no the fare lines. oft-told story of how Bronza would rendition of the old hymn. better mahogany than this here?’ The salesman says, spelled f-a-i-r, it is spelled f-a-r-e. Fare lines means there aren’t any make a grand entrance by first throwing I am weak, but Thou art strong; ‘Don’t that suit ya?’ It all paid off because when a boat went little bumps. Fare lines means his hat into a room and then cart- Jesus, keep me from all wrong; Bronzy replies, ‘I’ll tell ya, when I was down in the they are pleasant to the eye. Fare wheel though the door. O’Neal is first I’ll be satisfied as long out it caught your eye, like a car that is Philippines, this is the kind of stuff we used to build lines is not spelled f-a-i-r, it is confused by the question, thinking she As I walk, let me walk closer to Thee. all shined up that makes you want to our damn hog pens out of.’ spelled f-a-r-e. It all paid off has asked if he ever made a wheel for Just a closer walk with Thee, turn around and take that second look, Well I got snickerin’ and had to turn around because because when a boat went out it a cart. Grant it, Jesus, is my plea I didn’t want the man to see me laughing.” caught your eye, like a car that “You mean like a calisthenic?” Daily walking close to Thee, you know, sort of like a pretty woman.” is all shined up that makes you O’Neal asks. Let it be, dear Lord, let it be. (All his friends knew Bronza had never been to the want to turn around and take that “I was always amazed that with the - O’Neal Dean Philippines.) They were escorted to another shed where Parks family members still recall second look, you know, sort of size of Papa he would be able to do they found mahogany planks 24 to 28 inches wide and hearing that favorite song, sung with like a pretty woman.” one,” Trudi says. a mournful tone at the close of Bronza 24 to 26 feet long. O’Neal replies, “When you are Tom and O’Neal Dean were more Parks’ funeral, 55 years ago. “We loaded that truck up that day and bring ‘em back. young, it makes a lot of difference. than just master boatbuilders, they Prettiest stuff you ever laid your eyes on. Bronzy says He was full of foolishness like that, were accomplished musicians as well. ‘See, if you don’t know how to speak out for yourself, you know.” O’Neal Dean concludes c Along with Charlie Parks, another of you know he’d a made me take that other stuff.’ That his interview by saying Bronza’s best workers, they made up A note from Trudi Jones: was pretty stuff; we used it for a couple of years.” “I was grateful that he took me the Wingate Ramblers, a traveling “I am truly honored to know that Trudi Jones asks O’Neal if there was anything that set in and I was able to accomplish band that played all around Dorchester the recorded conversations I had things that I learned by him. Bronza Parks’ boat apart from the others being built at County and even went on the radio with two of my grandfather’s long He was a good teacher and he the time. in Annapolis. time employees will be shared. needs to be mentioned and the “He always emphasized keen lines. He was just “We were advertising for him, These conversations have been work that he done. He treated me a good sharp boatbuilder. He had a good eye. If playing music,” O’Neal Dean deeply treasured by me and it is (top) “Papa” Bronza Parks rocking four of his grandchildren, Patti good. It’s a poor person that can’t you ever done something wrong don’t ever think says. “It had to be about ’49 my hope that these will continue Hall (daughter of Martha Parks Todd), Trudi Jones (daughter of Joyce praise the bridge that carried he wouldn’t see it.” He goes on to tell about one because Tom Dean had a brand to tell the story of Bronza Parks’ Parks Wiley), Cande White (daughter of Martha Parks Todd), and Pres him across.” Harding, (son of Mary Parks Harding). worker who didn’t finish the woodwork in a cockpit new 1949 Ford. We played on legacy and how much people (bottom left) Thomas G. Dean. (bottom right) F. O’Neal Dean. just right. the Cambridge station for a while For Tom Dean, one of the great loved him.”

20 winter/spring 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log winter/spring 2013 21 calendar feb/march/april/may/june programs/member events/special events

Community Conversations: State of the Oyster Upcoming member events: Model Guild: Build a lapstrake skiff Lighthouse Overnight Adventures Friday, Saturday & Sunday, February 22, 23, 24 Select Friday & Saturday nights in April, May, & June Oysters and People An Evening with Marc Castelli Fri., 6-9pm, Sat. & Sun., 9am-5pm. Tools and materials supplied. Starting at 6pm and ending at 9am the following morning Sunday, February 24 Tuesday, March 12 $80 members, $95 non-members. Pre-registration required Contact Director of Education Kate Livie at [email protected] Free, from 2-4pm Free. 5:30pm in the Van Lennep Auditorium by Monday, Feb. 18 to Helen Van Fleet at 410-745-4941 or 410-745-4947 for more information and to register Van Lennep Auditorium RSVP to Debbie Collison at 410-745-4991 Led step-by-step by skilled modelers, participants create a 10-inch Your group can spend the night in our 1879 Hooper Strait Space is limited, RSVP to Helen Van Renowned artist Marc Castelli will share a unique slide presenta- wooden rowing skiff with lapped side planking and a flat bottom. Lighthouse. Travel back in time to experience the rustic life of a Fleet at 410 -745-4941 tion featuring his annual show of photographs collected while out lighthouse keeper with hands-on, interactive activities, games, and This discussion focuses on the social on the water in all the fisheries for the year (August to August). Model Guild: Build a half-hull model of stories. The program is designed for youth groups, children’s orga- history of oyster production in order Light refreshments served and space is limited. the Pride of Baltimore II nizations, and scouts, ages 8-12 (and their chaperones). The cost to address the long-term relationships Blessing of the Fleet Saturday & Sunday, March 23 & 24 is $600 for up to 15 participants and chaperones and includes Chesapeake Bay inhabitants have with the overnight program fee, two day’s admission, an official light- Wednesday, April 17 9am-5pm, $80 members, $95 non-members oysters. The panel includes a historian, house patch, a copy of “From a Lighthouse Window,” and a Miles Free. 4:30pm under the Hooper Strait Lighthouse Tools and materials supplied. $80 members, $95 non-members. folklorist, and an oyster biologist. River boat ride on the Mister Jim (subject to seasonal availability). RSVP to Debbie Collison at 410-745-4991 Pre-registration required by Monday, March 18 to Helen Van How Did We Get Here? Fleet at 410-745-4941 Help launch this year’s boating season with members, volunteers, Maritime Model Expo Sunday, March 3 and boatyard staff for an official ceremony honoring our own float- Led step-by-step by skilled modelers, participants create a half-hull Saturday, May 18 & Sunday, May 19 Free, from 4-6pm in the Van Lennep Auditorium ing fleet of Bay boats, as well as local work boats. Ceremony will model of the clipper Pride of Baltimore II. Sat., 10am–4pm & Sun., 10am–3pm Space is limited, RSVP to Helen Van Fleet at 410-745-4941 be performed by Reverend Kevin M. Cross. Refreshments served. CBMM's Model Guild welcomes anyone 12 years of age and Free for members or with Museum This session addresses the various factors contributing to the Members Preview – Crisfield Carvings older and encourages new members of all skill levels. A special admission decline of the Chesapeake oyster populations and features Friday, April 12 rate for a parent-child team can accommodate younger children. Held in conjunction with the Museum’s excerpts from the SeaGrant film “Who Killed Crassostrea virginica,” 5:30pm, Waterfowling Building Contact Model Guild Director Bob Mason at 410-745-3266 for as well as presentations by researchers and watermen. more information or email [email protected]. Model Guild and the North American Free, refreshments served. Pre-register with Cheryl Miller at Steamboat Modelers Association, this Watermen, Traditions & Perspectives 410-745-4943 or email [email protected] How Escaped Slaves Liberated the British expo includes radio-controlled models Sunday, March 10 Join CBMM Chief Curator Pete Lesher for a special member's Wednesday, April 10 powered by steam, battery, and wind. Free, from 2-4pm in the Van Lennep Auditorium preview opening of the new special exhibit Crisfield Carvings— 6-8pm in the Van Lennep Auditorium Static displays of highly-detailed and realistic models by the Washington Ship Space is limited, RSVP to Helen Van Fleet at 410-745-4941 Bird Hunting on Broad Waters. $8 for members, $10 for non-members Model Society and others will be fea- A panel of watermen and women present their experience-based Pre-register with Helen Van Fleet at 410-745-4941 Member Guided Tour – Navigating Freedom: tured, as well as activities for children. perspectives on the history and future of Chesapeake oystering. Join Pulitzer Prize-winning author Alan Taylor as he speaks on his Hear directly from these men and women about what it’s like to War of 1812 on the Chesapeake current book-in-progress about the impact of the War of 1812 on make a living under today’s difficult circumstances, the changes Saturday, May 11 The Elf Classic Yacht Race slavery in the Chesapeake region, the role of British soldiers as that they’ve seen in their lifetimes, and their ideas about the Free. 11am in the Steamboat Gallery Saturday, May 18 liberators, and the invaluable services runaway slaves provided to future of the industry. Race finish 4pm at the Museum (time subject to weather and Join Director of the Center for Chesapeake Studies Robert the British campaign. Forloney and for a special member's preview opening of the sailing conditions). Free for members or with Museum admission Possibilities & Consequences new exhibit. Refreshments served. Sunday, March 17 Boater Safety Classes Join Elf and other classic sailing yachts for the Elf Classic Yacht Free, from 2-4pm in the Van Lennep Auditorium Concert: United States Naval Academy Band April 17 & 18, May 15 & 16, June 12 & 13 Race—a true yachtsman’s race. The Eastport Yacht Club in Space is limited, RSVP to Helen Van Fleet at 410-745-4941 Commandant’s Combo July 17 & 18, August 15 & 16 Annapolis will serve as the departure point. This event is organized 6-10pm, $25 per two-evening session by the Classic Yacht Restoration Guild to recreate the sensibilities In the final session of this series, a panel of watermen, oyster Tuesday, June 4 Pre-register with Helen Van Fleet at 410-745-4941 of yacht racing of the 1880s when the races began on shore; researchers, and oyster farmers will discuss the future of oysters. Free. 6pm at the Tolchester Beach Bandstand including the row to the boat on mooring or anchor, making sail and Individuals and families with children over 12 are welcome to This discussion will cover aquaculture, reclaiming oyster shells and Sit back and enjoy the music from one of the most requested reversing the process at the finish—in this case signing the race log participate in our Boater’s Safety certification program and learn moving seed, disease research and mitigation, and sanctuaries. groups the USNA offers. Led by Senior Chief Musician Blake at the Tolchester Bandstand on the grounds of the Museum. the basics needed to operate a vessel on Maryland waterways. Cramer, the five-piece ensemble infuses elements of tradi- MD boaters born after July 1, 1972 are required to have a For more information, contact Rick Carrion at elf1888@earthlink. tional jazz, New Orleans reggae, and Brazilian music into its Certificate of Boating Safety Education. Graduates of our net or visit cyrg.org/elfclassic.htm. Visit our online calendar at cbmm.org own arrangements of time-honored jazz, classic, and popular two-day Department of Natural Resources-approved course are music. The Combo’s varied programming includes music from awarded a certificate that is good for life. for the most up-to-date information Leonard Bernstein to John Lennon and Stevie Wonder to Pearl on all upcoming events. Jam. Museum members enjoy free refreshments served at a VIP hospitality area during the concert. Bring a chair for seating. Leashed pets and picnics welcome.

22 winter/spring 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log winter/spring 2013 23 calendar on the rail Free Daily Events Skipjack Rosie Parks Restoration Update Memorial Day through Labor Day (with paid admission, free for members) *free events do not include Sailing Saturdays or Mister Jim Cruises, listed below in RED. by Eric Hervol & Shane Elliott

Public Tours estoration of the skipjack Rosie Parks continues with What: 45-minute highlights tour topside work after the completion of caulking and seal- When: Friday & Saturday Time: 11am & 2pm ingR the deck. The skipjack’s topside configuration includes Waterman’s Wharf one main forward hatch built in two sections, a small hatch What: Docent interpretation aft, and a deckhouse large enough to shelter three to four When: Everyday Time: 11am-3pm people. In the fall of 2012, the shipwrights began work on the Douglas fir and white oak forward hatch. This work Chesapeake People consisted of installing the hatch sides, or “trunk,” an oak What: Visit with authentic Chesapeake people ledger, oak beams and fir top strakes. The hatch was built Summer Sailing Program who share their stories as one unit, and then cut into two pieces while in place to June 24 – August 16 When: Saturdays Time: 11am-3pm ensure a tight fit. More information to be announced. Contact Director of After the forward hatch was completed, the deckhouse Education Kate Livie at 410-745-4947 with questions or Family Drop-ins was built in a similar fashion. The existing deckhouse was email [email protected] What: Kid themed, hands-on activities (crafts or tours) too rotten to salvage, but was intact enough to measure for Explore the Miles River and learn maritime skills in our Summer When: Thursdays & Fridays Time: 2-4pm replication. The sides were built with the rough window Sailing Program, where new sailors and old salts gain the confidence and companionway openings in place, to be finished later. to sail a small boat in a fun, safe, and encouraging environment. Boatyard Skills Demonstration With a consistent rough opening, the cabin windows were What: Learn traditional boatyard skills from a trained shipwright then built all at one time on the bench and installed after Kids Club When: Monday - Friday Time: 1:30pm June 24 – August 2 varnishing. More information to be announced. Contact Director of Community Work Days: Skipjack Restoration Next came the monkey rails, or low rails, along the Education Kate Livie at 410-745-4947 with questions or sides of the boat, aft of the oyster dredges amidships. The What: Work under the guidance of a master shipwright to help email [email protected] rebuild the skipjack Rosie Parks rails were patterned from the shape of the existing boat, The Museum’s weekly Kids Club is a half-day, hands-on When: Saturdays Time: 10am-3pm cut out from oak stock, and installed with ½” galvanized Chesapeake-focused camp for kids ages 4 to 7, where children rod. The rail was then sanded smooth after installation. learn about the Bay firsthand through activities, stories, games, As the topside work nears completion, shipwrights will and crafts. Sailing Saturdays move on to rudder installation and preparation for spring painting and varnishing. Stop by on Saturdays during the What: Try your hand at sailing one of our Apprentice For a Day boats. Boats range in size and are perfect for Community Work Days Program and help shipwrights Save the Date! 2013 one or two people, with instructions provided for restore the Rosie. beginners. Space is limited and pre- registration is (first row, left) Sharon Parks Weber and her husband Rob help Ship- June 14-16 Antique & Classic Boat Festival recommended. Call 410-745-4965 to reserve, wright Apprentice Shane Elliott glue bungs into the forward hatch. otherwise, it’s first-come, first-served. SAVE THE DATE: (first row, right) Shipwright Apprentice Ken Philips and Volunteer Cliff July 6 Big Band Night *Dates subject to change due to weather.* OysterFest & the Rosie Parks Launch Stretmeyer drill fasteners in the chicken beak. July 27 Chesapeake Folk Festival When: June 22, July 13, August 10, September 7 Saturday, November 2, 2013 (second row, left) Shipwright Apprentice Shane Elliott drills for galva- *Cost: $10 per session nized iron pins in the monkey rail. August 11 Watermen's Appreciation Day & Crab Feast (second row, right) Elliot continues to drill for galvanized iron pins while August 31 Charity Boat Auction Mister Jim Cruises building the main cabin, or the "doghouse." What: Climb aboard the buyboat Mister Jim for a 30-minute September 14 Boating Party Gala Fundraiser (third row, left) The overall view of progress on the Rosie Parks scenic cruise on the Miles River. restoration, as of January 2013. When: Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays October 5 & 6 Mid-Atlantic Small Craft Festival (third row, right) An overhead view of the Rosie from January, 2011. Time: 12noon, 1pm, 2pm & 3pm November 2 OysterFest & Rosie Parks Launch *Cost: $10 per person, free for kids 16 and under with Museum admission.

24 winter/spring 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log winter/spring 2013 25 Extending the Living Shoreline $210 $5,000 sponsors a on the rail transcribes Members Reception and one hour of Exhibit Opening a recorded oral history PRICELESS Chief Curator AFAD building replica Pete Lesher $110 Ghost skiff Make the Chesapeake buys one of the grasses preserves $1(we need 2,750 plants) 50 historic Part of Your Story photos in buys one ton of sand weddings  corporate retreats  archival private special events $17 (we need 1,030 tons) materials buys ONE ton of stone $37 (we need 480 tons) $350 prints and Waterman’s Wharf 300 boards Replacing mounts an Steamboat Dock 350 boards ONE board on interpretive Steamboat Deck & ramp160 boards our docks panel for Fogg’s Cove to Navy Point 320 boards costs $25 Push and Journeyman Shipwright Jenn Kuhn and AFAD participant Eugene Severens. Pull: Life on buys one foot of the new stone wall Chesapeake $65 in front of the administration buildings Bay Tugboats articipants in the Museum’s Apprentice for a Day The Museum needs (AFAD) public boatbuilding program have begun work $1800 Pbuilding a replica of the deadrise bateau skiff, Ghost. Built provides stipend funds circa 1916-1920 in Shadyside, Maryland by Captain Charles 3,700 What does your for a college student Edward Leatherbury, the 15’9” x 5’10” skiff is noted for its visitors at full price in CBMM’s Summer herringbone planking and sharp deadrise increasing at the to pay the electric bow and stern. bill each year donation buy? Internship Program AFAD participants began the process by taking the lines off the historic skiff. They will continue step-by-step $500 buys ONE $500 buys a spool on select Saturdays and Sundays through May, 2013, with of 1/2” dacron line to $50 buys the bait-and-tackle family fishing new JY jib for the drop-in and scheduled participants welcome. The new replace worn activity at the Chesapeake Folk Festival in July Summer Sailing Program boat will be planked in cedar and decked in sassafras, with rigging frames of oak. Most of her other structural members will covers the cost of art materials and craft be constructed of white oak, with the forefoot made up of $400 supplies for two weeks of Summer Kids Club “chunks” with the grain parallel to the herringbone planking. for a A single, 146-square-foot leg-of-mutton sail will be created DNR at the museum during the program, and will later be carried $100 on a raked mast. The 18 waterfront acres of the Chesapeake Bay $23 permit covers the cost Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, Maryland are Donated to CBMM in 1966 by Mrs. Milton Offutt, of first aid to allow scientific oyster yours for making memories. Whether in sandals Ghost sailed the Severn River extensively until WWII, and certification for a sampling during the later traveled with the bugeye Richard J. Vetra to log canoe on our docks or formally dressed atop the 1879 $250 buys 60 board feet of sailing instructor races and other regattas along with log canoes Island Bird Hooper Strait Lighthouse, you and your guests ECOLOGY CRUISE white oak for restoration work and Magic. will share an unforgettable experience. AFAD's Journeyman Special continues through May. $350 purchases 10 Stearns Youth Life Jackets Choose any four classes for $150 for members and $200 for $1,000 buys192 board feet of non-members. Single drop-in classes are $45 for members For more information, email [email protected] white cedar to plank a rowing skiff and $55 for non-members. Must be 16 or older unless or call 410-745-4944 accompanied by an adult. Email questions to [email protected] $300 buys four or call Jenn Kuhn at 410-745-2916. [Photo credits] top clockwise: gallons of red primer (1) Brain Ray Studios (2, 5 & 6) Melissa Grimes-Guy Photography (3 & 4) Michael Kress for wood protection $100 on collection boats fuels our trucks for one week 26 winter/spring 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log winter/spring 2013 27 Non-Profit Org. US Postage PAID Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum P.O. Box 636 St. Michaels, MD 21663 cbmm.org • 410-745-2916