a publication of the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum

The Chesapeake SUMMER Log2013 Mission Statement The mission of the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Summer 2013 Museum is to inspire an understanding contents Out and About with A.L.L. of and appreciation for the rich maritime heritage of the Chesapeake Bay and its tidal reaches, together with the artifacts, cultures and connections between this place and its people. Vision Statement The vision of the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum is to be the premier maritime museum for studying, exhibiting, preserving and celebrating the important history and culture of the largest estuary in the United States, the Chesapeake Bay. Sign up for our e-Newsletter and stay up-to-date on all of the news and events at the Museum. Email [email protected] to be added to our mailing list. CONNECT WITH US:

facebook.com/mymaritimemuseum A.L.L. participants heading to Poplar Island. Photo courtesy of Hunter H. Harris. twitter.com/CBMMorg youtube.com/CBMMorg1965 Beautifulswimmers.tumblr.com 14 17 2025 CBMM's Academy for Lifelong Learning (A.L.L.) is planning a number of Chesapeakeboats.blogspot.com outings this summer, including perennial favorites to Poplar Island and the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum Easton Airport, as well as trips to the Naval Academy Museum in Annapolis, Navy Point, PO Box 636 Hillwood Estate in Washington D.C. , Druid Hill Conservatory in Baltimore, St. Michaels, MD 21663 4 chairman’s message 12 research 22 on the rail and to Rock Hall for some Boogie-Woogie at The Mainstay. Join the fun! 410-745-2916 • cbmm.org Chesapeake Bay Folklife by CG Appleby An update on the Rosie Parks Check out our online catalog for dates and information online at cbmm.org/all, Hours: by Michelle Zacks project, the Apprentice For a Day or call Helen Van Fleet at 410-745-4941. April to May, 9am–5pm president’s letter Chesapeake People Profile: Public Boatbuilding Program and June to August, 9am–6pm 5 Mary Helen Holmes the Mister Jim. by Langley R. Shook Sept. to Oct., 9am–5pm by Michelle Zacks Free admission to CBMM for active Nov. to March, 10am–4pm 6 currents 13 lifelines 23 calendar On the cover: Two new exhibits open; Museum Volunteer Profile: Parker Brophy Antique & Classic Boat Festival, Carefree passengers bound for a day's diversions Big Band Night & Fireworks, military families this summer by Marie Thomas at Tolchester Beach disembark from the steamboat welcomes new employees and sum- Watermen's Appreciation Day Louise during the summer of 1919. mer interns; SMHS students plant & Crab Feast, Charity Boat Auction, living shoreline; Guild of Colonial 14 features 16th Annual Boating Party, plus From Memorial Day through Labor Day, Editors: Tracey Munson & Marie Thomas summer educational programs, Creative Director: Marie Thomas Artisans Tradesmen donates to the Museum will offer free general A Whale of a Time free concerts and more! Copy Editors: Mariana Lesher Museum; Springtime magic. by Kate Livie admission to all active-duty military & Emilie Knud-Hansen Bronza Parks Remembered personnel and their families. The promo- Contributing Writers: Curator’s corner 17 as a Community Leader tion is part of CBMM's affiliation with CG Appleby, Dick Cooper, David Crosson, 9 Shane Elliott, Jenn Kuhn, Pete Lesher, by Dick Cooper with photos courtesy Navigating Between Friend and Foe: Blue Star Museums—a partnership with Kate Livie, Tracey Munson, Langley Shook, of Warren “Pres” Harding Jacob Gibson in the War of 1812 the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), Blue Star Families, and more than Marie Thomas, Michelle Zacks. by Pete Lesher Antique & Classic Boat Festival 1,500 museums across America. CBMM also offers free, individual admission to all The Chesapeake Log is a publication of Celebrates 26 Years the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. 20 active military personnel year-round, excluding special events. by Marie Thomas & Tracey Munson

2 summer 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log summer 2013 3 Chairman’s Message Board of Museum Staff President’s Letter Governors President by CG Appleby, Chairman of the Board Langley R. Shook, President, 4951 by Langley R. Shook, President 2012-2013 Cheryl Miller, Administrative Assistant, 4943 Breene M. Kerr Center After nearly a decade of serving the Chesapeake Bay CG Appleby, Chair for Chesapeake Studies To help the Museum plan for its future, this past Maritime Museum, first as a board member for seven Tom D. Seip, Vice Chair Pete Lesher, Chief Curator, 4971 winter we reached out to the community through Richard Scofield, Assistant Curator of Watercraft, 4966 years, then as Vice Chair, and finally, as Chair for the James P. Harris, Treasurer several focus groups and a Town Hall meeting. Richard C. Tilghman, Secretary Rob Forloney, Director of the Kerr Center, 4959 last two years, I wanted to take a moment and reflect Kate Livie, Director of Education, 4947 Business leaders, members, donors, volunteers, the on the growth I’ve been privileged to witness and what Schuyler Benson Eric Applegarth, Exhibits Specialist, 4945 “come heres” and the “from heres,” met to consider Lynne Phillips, Collections Manager, 4972 Paul Berry the future holds for the Museum. Helen Van Fleet, Education & Reservations Assistant, 4941 our mission and our role in the communities we serve. I am especially proud of the Museum’s ever- Richard J. Bodorff Michelle Zacks, Museum Folklorist, 4961 This was fitting because community has played Harry W. Burton increasing efforts to reach out to our many different Boatyard a central role at CBMM from the beginning. When communities to foster inclusiveness. Great ideas such William S. Dudley an oil refinery was proposed for the community David E. Dunn Mike Gorman, Vessel Maintenance Manager, 4967 Mark Donohue, Rosie Parks Project Manager, 4967 as inviting the local community to free events, reaching Anna W. Fichtner almost fifty years ago, area citizens started a grass out to local businesses, hosting an annual Watermen’s Jennifer Kuhn, Boatyard Program Manager, 4980 roots movement that was eager to find a cleaner Dagmar D. P. Gipe Shane Elliott, Shipwright Apprentice Appreciation Day, and celebrating Frederick Douglass E. Brooke Harwood, Jr. Joe LaRochelle, Shipwright Apprentice way to vitalize the local economy. A handful of Day, have resulted in a growing connection with the Christopher A. Havener Joe Connor, Vessel Maintenance Assistant community leaders decided the answer was to promote tourism. They founded Francis Hopkinson, Jr. diverse audiences CBMM serves. Communications & Special Events our Museum, which opened with just a handful of artifacts they’d donated or Fred Israel The modernization of our campus continues to improve the Museum’s carbon foot- Tracey Munson, Vice President of Communications, 4960 loaned for display in our Dodson House. The Crab Claw Restaurant opened next Pamela Jana print and commitment to protecting the Bay. Implementation of energy-saving equipment Marie Thomas, Communications Manager, 4953 door a few months later. From those modest beginnings, the Museum has grown Richard H. Kimberly and policies, revitalization of Navy Point, installation of a new bulkhead, and the Melissa Spielman, Director of Events & Volunteer Program, 4956 to 18 waterfront acres, with 12 exhibit buildings, celebrating the Bay and the Peter M. Kreindler Ida Heelan, Events Coordinator, 4944 creation of a vitally important and beautiful living shoreline are just a few examples of Frank C. Marshall people who have lived, worked, and played here for centuries, and still do today. the Museum’s intense focus to highlight, enhance, and conserve the Chesapeake Bay Geoffrey F. Oxnam Development & Constituent Services We’re grateful to all those who contributed constructive feedback and I invite for our children’s children. The breadth of new exhibits and hands-on experiences at Bruce A. Ragsdale David Crosson, Vice President of Development, 4984 the rest of you to share your own ideas as well. Most agree the Museum has the Museum grow exponentially with each passing year, a remarkable testament to our Mitchell Reiss René Stevenson, Vice President of Constituent Services, 4950 become a leading center for education, exhibition, and preservation of the Bay’s unique institution. Thought-provoking exhibits ranging from tug boats to fine maritime Diane J. Staley Debbie Collison, Membership Manager, 4991 maritime culture, and has achieved this vision because of its focus, unique stories, art, the War of 1812 to aerial photos covering 50 years of change, and even decoy carvings, Henry H. Stansbury Emilie Knud-Hansen, Mem/Develop. Assistant, 4955 and rare elements like our historic floating fleet and old-fashioned active boatyard. Megan Fisher, Visitor Services Manager, 4945 have provided educational opportunities for thousands of school children, and deepened Benjamin C. Tilghman, Jr. Some suggestions include expanding our treatment of environmental issues Alfred Tyler, 2nd Hunter Ingersoll, Dockmaster, 4946 the visitor experience for all our guests. J.T. Thomas, Leslie Price, Chloe Tong, affecting the Bay and its people; adding more on-the-water experiences; creating The restoration of the skipjack Rosie Parks is another highlight of my time at the President Ariana McGuirk, Ceres Bainbridge, new and refreshed exhibits; adding better directional signage for visitors; and Museum. I saw the deterioration of the Rosie, and now I am privileged to witness her Langley R. Shook Max Reedy, Museum Hosts increasing partnerships with other non-profits and local businesses. rebirth. Only CBMM has the facilities, the experienced staff, and the knowledge to Finance Some new initiatives will take time to achieve, while others can be imple- Emeriti handle the restoration and continued maintenance of a historic project of this caliber. Jean Brooks, Vice President of Finance, 4958 mented immediately. Take a look at our calendar of events on page 24 and Richard T. Allen I am honored to have met the families of both the Rosie’s builder and her captain, and Craig Atwood, Director of Finance, 4958 you’ll find a slew of new on-the-water activities, including a kayak trip with the Margaret D. Keller Digie McGuirk, Staff Accountant, 4957 am deeply appreciative of the Parks family’s gifts to this institution—sharing their Breene M. Kerr Devon Duvall, Museum Store Manager, 4962 Midshore Riverkeeper Conservancy and an Eco Kayak Program with Sultana family legacy and history with our visitors. Charles L. Lea, Jr. Charlstine Foreman, Betsy Walter, Tara Mores, Projects, to name just two. To strengthen our ties to the local community, we’ve I know the Museum remains in capable, strong hands. I’m most proud of the highly D. Ted Lewers, MD Emily Walter, Museum Store Clerks also opened campus for several free events, like the upcoming June 4 free concert Patti Meschino, Store Business Development Manager, 4954 knowledgeable, skilled, and professional Museum staff who, over the recent economic Fred C. Meendsen featuring the US Naval Academy Band’s The Commandant’s Combo. Stay tuned as downturn, have become a finely-tuned team, working miracles with fewer hands and John C. North II Operations we incorporate your feedback and improve the Museum and the visitor experience. resources. In addition, our volunteer corps is stronger and more dedicated than ever, Sumner Parker Bill Gilmore, Vice President of Operations, 4949 This year’s Annual Fund has just closed and I’m delighted to report we set a Robert A. Perkins John Ford, Facilities Manager, 4970 making a huge contribution to the Museum’s ongoing success. new record for the fourth year in a row. I don’t know of any non-profit on the James K. Peterson Lad Mills, Boat Donations Program Manager, 4942 Finally, the Board of Governors has recruited a deep pool of talented, resourceful Norman H. Plummer Andrew Walter, Boat Donations Program Eastern Shore that enjoys greater support from its members and friends. It’s Assistant Manager, 4942 members, resulting in strong leadership for an even brighter future. A terrific slate of John J. Roberts because of your continued support that we’re able to maintain our floating fleet, Sam Fairbank, Facilities Maintenance Assistant, 4969 officers is lined up for the near term, each of whom has a passion for CBMM and the Henry H. Spire provide rich educational programs and activities for children and adults, and Joseph Redman, Facilities Maintenance Assistant, 4969 history and legacies it holds. Thank you for this opportunity to be of service to you, for James E. Thomas create new and engaging exhibits like Navigating Freedom: The War of 1812 on loving this place as much as Nancy and I do, and for keeping it close to your heart as Joan Darby West To contact, dial 410-745, and the number listed. the Chesapeake, that just opened. To email, use the first initial, full last name @cbmm.org. your own legacy plays out on the Chesapeake Bay. Donald G. Whitcomb Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to the Museum. I hope you’ll visit often this summer and enjoy what you’ve helped to sustain for so many to treasure.

4 summer 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log summer 2013 5 currents New ExhibitS Open: Museum welcomes new SMHS students plant Navigating Freedom: The War of 1812 on the Chesapeake employees, summer interns CBMM's Living Shoreline Crisfield Carvings: Bird Hunting on Broad Waters

wo new exhibits opened this past spring, including Crisfield Carvings: Bird Hunting on Broad Waters inT April, and Navigating Freedom: The War of 1812 on the Chesapeake in May. Crisfield Carvings opened on April 13 and features the waterfowling and carving traditions of Crisfield, Maryland. This special exhibit includes decoys representing a broad variety of birds, as well as original artwork by carver Lem Ward, and other regional works. A special thanks to Judy and Henry Stansbury for underwriting this event, and to the exhibit's sponsor, Guyette, Schmidt & Deeter of St. Michaels, America's leading decoy auction house. Navigating Freedom opened on May 11 in the Steamboat (front row, from left) Bill Gilmore, Patti Meschino, René Stevenson, Leslie Price, n Monday, April 8, Gallery. The exhibit explores the impact of the War of Debbie Collison, Craig Atwood, Langley Shook (second row, from left) Lad Mills, St. Michaels High 1812 on the people of the Chesapeake—black and white James Thomas, Robert Forloney, Helen Van Fleet, Megan Fisher, Tracey Munson, Ida Heelan, OSchool students came to the Americans, militiamen, Baltimore merchants, and British Cheryl Miller, Pete Lesher, David Crosson. (Back row, from left) Melissa Spielman, sailors who found opportunity or misfortune amid the Eric Applegarth, John Ford, Joe Redmond, Sam Fairbank, Shane Elliott, Joe LaRochelle. Museum to plant native salt (Top, front row) Michael Gorman, Richard Scofield, Jenn Kuhn, Marie Thomas, Kate Livie. conflict. The exhibit features stories, artwork, and rare relics marsh hay and cord grass (Top, back row) Joe Connor, Devon Duvall, Jean Brooks, Hunter Ingersoll, Lynne Phillips. along our newly extended of the period, and was made possible by generous support CBMM Staff pose on the Mainship 43 Pilot (2006, fully loaded, only 400 hours on twin from the following: Star-Spangled Banner 200, Maryland 440hp Yanmar diesels), which is currently for sale. Contact Lad Mills at 410-745-4942 living shoreline. Participating Heritage Areas Authority, Lesley and Fred Israel, Kay (above) Members and donors filled the Small Boat Shed for the opening ofCrisfield or email [email protected] for more information. students included (from left, and Bob Perkins, Ellen and Norman Plummer, Karen and Carvings. (bottom right) From left, Henry Stansbury, Chief Curator Pete Lesher, pictured above) Orissa Dagmar Gipe, Vice President of Development David Crosson, and Al Gipe. Thomas, Laura Sinderman, Langley Shook, and Joan and Clifton West. he Museum welcomes several new employees and and Kaitlyn Whitby, all 9th interns for the upcoming summer season. Joining the grade students in Ms. Greer's TMuseum Store are Charlstine Foreman and Tara Mores. (top left) A group from the Maryland State Archives with CBMM Staff. Ryan Cox, environmental science class. Joining the Visitor Services team are Hunter Ingersoll, Director of CCS Rob Forloney, Chief Curator Pete Lesher, Alison Seyler, Maya Davis, The project is an extension Charles Weisenberg, Tanner Sparks, and Folklorist Michelle Zacks. J.T. Thomas, Leslie Price, Chloe Tong, Ariana McGuirk, of the living shoreline the Museum installed in 2008 and Ceres Bainbridge, and Max Reedy. Joining the Boatyard is (top right) Maritime Model Guild Director Bob Mason with wife Marilyn and volunteer 2009. Construction of the new section began over the Mary Sue Traynelis. Volunteers like Bob and Mary Sue were instrumental in putting part-time Vessel Maintenance Assistant Joe Connor, and winter and extends the shoreline to CBMM's property together this exhibit. Mark Donohue as the new Rosie Parks Project Manager. line next to the Inn at Perry Cabin. The new shoreline (middle left) Former United States Vice President Dick Cheney with his wife Lynn. A former CBMM shipwright apprentice, Donohue has since is funded through generous support and grants from the (middle right) CBMM Board of Governors Emeritus Norman Plummer, exhibit volunteer worked at the Virginia Maritime Heritage Foundation, Chesapeake Bay Trust, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Ellen Plummer, along with CBMM Board of Governor Bruce Ragsdale, Karen Shook, Sea Island Boatworks and the Independence Seaport Administration (NOAA), Crystal Trust, Bonnell Cove Rick Scobey, and CBMM Vice President of Development David Crosson. Museum in Philadelphia.As Project Manager, he is Foundation, and Constellation Energy. (bottom left) Guests study the flyover map. responsible for restoring Rosie Parks in accordance with Environmental Concern of St. Michaels, MD, (bottom middle) Kay and Board Emerti member Bob Perkins with Rosemary and the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Historic constructed the shoreline, which includes stone sill Joe Trippe. Vessel Preservation. We wish our friend and former Project to control wave erosion, native grasses, sand, and two Manager Marc Barto the very best in his new endeavors (bottom right) One of Jacob Gibson's cannons sits at the entrance of the exhibit. docks traversing the shoreline for water access. Living Read more about this cannon and Gibson's story on page 9. outside the Museum. shorelines use natural elements, such as native grasses Promotions include Devon Duvall to Museum Store and sand, to provide erosion control protection while Manager, Jenn Kuhn to Boatyard Programs Manager, and providing habitat for fish, crabs, and other wildlife. Megan Fisher to Visitor Services Manager. 6 summer 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log summer 2013 7 currents curator’s corner CBMM receives Springtime magic at CBMM donation from Guild Navigating Between Friend and Foe: by David Crosson

hen I arrived at the Museum this past fall as the new Jacob Gibson in the War of 1812 Vice President of Development, I asked members of Wthe staff what makes this place special. There were a lot of by Pete Lesher different answers, but the most intriguing involved very few words. Smiles came upon faces. Corners of eyes crinkled. “You'll see,” they said, “you'll see.” Then a hard winter set in. It was wet and cold. The wind was unrelenting and “We were fortunate always, it seemed, from the wrong direction, regularly spilling water into the Crab Claw parking lot. Finally, in enough not to have a early April, a hint of something more hopeful arrived. It was a Saturday morning. The edge wasn't out of the air, but man hurt, although there was clearing breeze from the northwest. I walked to the boat shop and grabbed the oars for an outing in the the grapeshot flew Museum President Langley Shook and President General Jeannine Kallal of the Guild Museum's North Shore dinghy. I rowed out on the Miles of Colonial Artisans and Tradesmen,1607-1783. Shook was the keynote speaker at and into the chop. The breeze was building. Bubbles lined like hail in the the Guild's annual meeting, where CBMM received a generous donation. The Guild up on the water, a sign, for those in the know, that the wind is a hereditary society established to honor the memory and skills of our Colonial was topping 17 knots. I worked my way to a channel marker town, and their balls ancestors who were accomplished in the field of art or trade, which strengthened the across the river. A pair of osprey were there, each delivering building of our nation. one big stick at a time from the far shore to the bare, wind- passed through a swept nesting platform of their adopted home. I rounded the marker and pointed the bow toward the Museum, number of houses.” Delmarva Nesting Foundation putting my back into the row. There was, however, work still to be done. A group of So reported a letter to Baltimore’s donates Purple Martin Houses Museum friends were soon to convene on the deck by the Niles Weekly Register regarding the At Play on the Bay exhibit to kick off the social season. I was defense of St. Michaels from British Two six-pounder cannons given to the local militia by Jacob Gibson were hastily mounted on cart wheels to prepare for the British attack that came on August 10, 1813. Pen-and-ink illustrations © Marc Castelli. to greet them at the Museum entryway and direct them attack on August 10, 1813. to their destination. The Museum was soon to close to the public. While I was distributing name tags to our guests, a or a seemingly small, inconsequen- Episcopal parish, and a handful of However, a British landing party couple approached, explaining that they were not part of the tial town on the Eastern Shore small shipbuilding yards. Lying on under Lieutenant Puckinghorne, party but really would like to take a walk on the Museum Fof the Chesapeake, St. Michaels was a narrow peninsula that extends into shielded by early morning darkness grounds. The moment demanded generosity. “By all means,” ripped apart by conflict in the spring the Chesapeake Bay and ends at paired with a drizzly fog, overran the I said. “It's a nice late afternoon. Enjoy your walk.” and summer of 1813. Battle ships of Tilghman Island, the town was thought battery and spiked the small cannons As I was greeting the last of those arriving for the a hostile navy advanced up the Bay, by local militia leaders to be vulner- abandoned by the fleeing militia. Museum's social, the couple returned from their walk confiscating or destroying farm crops, able to a British raid. In defense of the Separated by an expanse of the harbor, on our campus. The guy approached, smiling, with hand liberating slaves, raiding towns, and town and its shipyards, they placed a additional militia inside the town extended to shake mine. He thanked me, almost too seizing local boats daring to cross the small battery on Parrott’s Point at the exchanged fire with the landing profusely, it seemed. I looked at the young woman and waters. Not everyone supported the war, entrance to the town’s principal harbor party, which returned to its boats as immediately was perplexed. Tears were streaming down her and some neighbors engaged in what and its shipyard along the Miles River. the day dawned. Thanks to the Delmarva Nesting face. Then she extended her hand, but not to shake mine. seemed like treasonous acts, aiding the It was a prominent but vulnerable loca- The British then fired on the Foundation, we now have two purple “He proposed!” she said, showing me her engagement ring. British by selling provisions to feed tion, as the defenders soon learned. town from 11 small boats that had martin houses on our docks. That's There's an old adage that one should never let the facts get in their sailors and troops. The British objective, to capture been escorted up the river by the good news for keeping the mosquito the way of a great story. In the interest of accuracy, however, I St. Michaels was one of the few or destroy any armed vessels in the brig Conflict. The nearest militia population down for our guests and can only say I imagined this fellow getting the answer he was locations largely spared in the face harbor and to destroy the battery, company, the St. Michaels Patriotic docking members, while keeping seeking somewhere in the upper reaches of our lighthouse. of British raids in the Chesapeake would be only half achieved in the Blues, had another artillery battery native birds around our campus. Finally, I think, I had my experience of the real magic of this theater of operations during the War of end. In August, 1813, the county’s at Impy Dawson’s wharf with a pair Museum—one of those ineffable moments that crinkle the 1812. The town of at most 300 persons militia gathered at St. Michaels, of recently-acquired six-pounder corners of my colleagues’ eyes, and now my own as well. was home to a Methodist chapel, an tipped off by a deserter. cannons that returned fire until the 8 summer 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log summer 2013 9 British boats withdrew. A third artil- local participation in provisioning the It was a second gaffe that seriously raiding party overran a five-gun battery lery battery under Easton’s Lieutenant British forces, even when the suppliers married his character in local circles, and destroyed the foundry on May 3, Vickars joined in the fray as soon as were not willing participants in the however. Gibson had reached his farm 1813. Indicating the magnitude of his they relocated from their morning post exchange. Clearly, Gibson’s sale of live- on Sharp’s Island by first crossing the atonement, Gibson somehow procured along the town’s main road to Mill stock to the British would be viewed as Miles River to St. Michaels, traversing the pair of six-pounders on one of his Point on the harbor. unpatriotic. Gibson wrote to Secretary to the other side of the narrow penin- visits to Baltimore, and then shipped The six-pounder cannons, “rudely of State James Monroe and Maryland sula, then taking a second boat from them by land around the head of the mounted upon cart or wagon wheels,” Governor Levin Winder a week later Broad Creek, down the Choptank River Chesapeake, because of the high risk were recently presented to the town to report his encounter with Admiral to Sharp’s Island. He returned the same of capture if sent by water. The block- as a gift by local planter Jacob Gibson, Warren’s forces, noting the compensa- way, in a vessel that resembled a barge, ade hampered not only the movement with a backstory far more involved tion he had received and insisting the a larger class of ship’s boat that could be of letter-of-marque schooners out of than a mere charitable donation to the British left the remuneration for him sailed or rowed. Baltimore bound for ocean waters, but town’s meager defenses. even though he had refused it. On returning up Broad Creek, also local trade between the shores of Purchased in Baltimore and trans- He offered that he had “no control Gibson flew a red flag from his mast- the Chesapeake Bay. ported to St. Michaels, the cannons over the money or bills thus left, until head that could have been mistaken at Remorseful restitution worked, and were a way to repair community ties the pleasure of the government is a distance for the British red ensign. Gibson appeared to have learned his after the stain of aiding the enemy and communicated as to its disposal.” Accompanying him on the vessel were lesson. Although tainted by his absurd a childish and alarming prank had Certainly other Marylanders and some of his slaves, one of whom was prank and the dealings with the British, tarnished Gibson’s local reputation. Virginians had received similar thumping rhythmically on the head the gift of the cannons helped to rees- compensation from provisioning the of an empty barrel—a sound that is tablish Gibson’s partisanship for the British, and were painted as traitors thought to have been mistaken from American war effort, for which he was j for what was perceived as open trade ashore as a military drum. His prank and remained an ardent supporter. Jacob Gibson was one of those with the enemy. Gibson clearly was reportedly had the desired effect, larger-than-life figures, a well-to-do seeking to fend off such accusations creating enough commotion ashore to landowner and slaveholder who by offering the funds to the state or call for a muster of the St. Michaels j nonetheless championed the populist federal government. Governor Winder Patriotic Blues, the nearest militia After the war, the guns were kept for ideas of the party of Jefferson, the forwarded Gibson’s letter to President company. Once ashore, Gibson received a time in the market house on St. Mary’s Democratic-Republicans, and the Madison with a transmission, reprinted an indignant reception. Square in St. Michaels, but were ulti- more radical idea of raising funds to in the May 25 edition of the Republican The militia commander, Captain mately removed to the armory in nearby pay for the manumission of slaves. Star, which carried a tone favorable to Kemp, a Federalist and political Easton. On June 9, 1861, all of the arms Gibson’s principal residence was a farm Gibson, while clearly articulating the opponent of Gibson, extracted both at the Easton armory were transferred he named Marengo after Napoleon’s concerns raised by the case. an apology and an explanation of his to federal troops, who removed them to victory, situated along the Miles River, (top) At least three vessels were on the stocks in St. Michaels at the time of the attack—two letter-of-marque dealings with the British on Sharp’s the safety of Fort McHenry. roughly opposite St. Michaels. Earlier schooners and a barge that would later become part of Joshua Barney’s gunboat flotilla. (bottom) Gibson advanced “Mr. Gibson was not in a situation to on St. Michaels flying a red flag and with the beat of a drum, falsely alarming the populace of a much anticipated Island, parts of which had undoubtedly They have remained at the fort that year, on April 12, Gibson was resist any demands that might be made British advane. Pen-and-ink illustrations © Marc Castelli. been observed from a distance. since that time, and became National in the process of removing his slaves, upon him, and of course is not to be Ultimately Gibson was permitted Park Service collections after the fort livestock, and grain from his farm on censured for the conduct of the enemy. to return to his home across the Miles became a national park in 1925. There Sharp’s Island when he was stopped It is now for the constituted authorities River, having brought the scrutiny and was an unsuccessful effort to return by the British under Admiral Warren. of this country to decide, whether, condemnation of St. Michaels society the cannons to St. Michaels for the As recounted in Oswald Tilghman’s With their 74-gun ships and other on Poplar Island and plundered to a under circumstances disclosed, and upon his head for which a mere apol- celebration of the sesquicentennial of History of Talbot County, the British armed vessels, the Royal Navy easily large extent,” the April 27 edition of when that protection, which is the ogy would not suffice. Reparations the attack in 1963. Remarkably, they forces appropriated some of his sheep, commanded the open waters of the the Republican Star and Eastern Shore just claim of every citizen, has not were needed. At this time, cannons retain their identity to this day as the cattle, and hogs, reimbursing Gibson Chesapeake. Landing parties sent General Advertiser editorialized, “Had been afforded to him, this gentleman were in short supply among the militia guns used to defend St. Michaels, for his loss in a combination of hard ashore for provisions might risk hostil- the Islands in the Bay been divested shall receive the compensation which companies defending the Chesapeake’s and specifically those obtained by money and government bills. Several ities with militia, but this hazard was of succor to the enemy, which interest the enemy offers, or it would be better shoreside towns. Gibson. Jacob Gibson’s six-pounders days later, Warren released Gibson, minimized when provisioning from a and patriotism certainly dictated […] by refusing such permission in all Principio Iron Works, farther north are exhibited in our newest exhibit, but ordered him not to remove any of vulnerable island farm. Nearby Poplar their visit up the bay would have been cases, and indemnifying the injured on the Bay near Elkton, Maryland, Navigating Freedom: The War of 1812 his remaining livestock from the island, Island and Tilghman Island suffered both short and unprofitable.” out of the national resources, to take produced cannons and balls for the US on the Chesapeake—not 500 yards from though he was permitted to remove similar raids, and the British used Editor Thomas Perrin Smith was a from individuals the temptations Navy and many of the letter-of-marque where they were first used. The exhibit some of his grain. Kent Island for an encampment before political ally of Gibson, so he omitted which might sometimes be offered, to schooners out of Baltimore. However, is open to the public now through the In the island-dotted Chesapeake, and after their raids on St. Michaels in any direct mention of activities on an underhand and dangerous traffic less than a month after Gibson’s brief beginning of 2015. these raids were part of the British the summer of 1813. After noting that Sharp’s Island, but his remarks reflect with the enemy.” arrest on Sharp’s Island, another British strategy for provisioning on the Bay. “a marauding party landed last week how the Maryland public viewed 10 summer 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log summer 2013 11 research lifelines Chesapeake Bay Volunteer Profile: Parker Brophy

Folklife olunteer Parker Brophy, age 19, began volunteering at the Museum about two years ago after his mother, Sarah V(also a volunteer), suggested he visit because she knew he by Michelle Zacks would love it, and she was right. As a student at Paul Smith's College in New York, majoring in fisheries and wildlife management with a minor in outdoor education, Parker loved very Saturday, from Memorial Day through Labor Day, the hands-on activities offered at the Museum. He volun- Museum visitors have the opportunity, through the teers his time at special events, and his favorite spot at the EChesapeake People program, to meet authentic tradition bearers who’ve spent their lives making a living on the Chesapeake Museum is Waterman’s Wharf. Bay. The public can meet, interact with, and watch as these “I explain and demonstrate basic waterman skills and talk local decoy carvers, watermen, and crab pickers demonstrate about the life on the water of an Eastern Shore Waterman to their trades and show you how it’s really done. visitors, and every time I volunteer, I leave with more knowl- Don’t miss Cultures of Crabbing on July 27 from 11am to Mary Helen Holmes (left), Sharon Young (right), and Minerva Nava (standing) demonstrate edge than when I arrived,” says Parker. crab picking techniques for Museum guests at last year's Chesapeake Folk Festival. 2pm in the Small Boat Shed to watch crab-picking demon- Parker is a 2012 graduate of Easton High School, where Museum volunteer Parker Brophy is also an Eagle Scout, of Troop 190 in Easton. strations, explore how a packing house operates, and learn he completed the agriculture program and was active in The Museum welcomes volunteers of all ages, and encourages high school students about the Eastern Shore’s growing Hispanic population and • The efforts of people in water-dependent jobs to Future Farmers of America (FFA). He also interned with to volunteer their time to meet service hour graduation requirements. For more its important role in the crab industry. At Waterman’s Wharf, maintain their identities and the viability of working the Riverkeepers last year and will be teaching in the Nature information, contact Director of Events & Volunteer Program Melissa Spielman at you’ll discover the biology of a blue crab, and the hands-on waterfronts—rural and urban. program at Camp Rodney in North East, MD this summer. 410-745-4956 or [email protected]. work of harvesting these feisty little creatures. (A special thanks • The occupations, food, artwork, and religious to Chesapeake Landing Restaurant and Bay Hundred Seafood, traditions that connect African Americans in the who are donating crabs for the picking demonstrations.) Chesapeake region to the maritime world. The Museum’s Center for Chesapeake Studies’ Folklife Chesapeake People Profile: Program explores the living roots of maritime traditions • The ways in which Latin American migratory workers around the Bay, and shares that knowledge with Museum are adapting to the traditions, social structure, and Mary Helen Holmes visitors. Why do we say living roots—and for that matter, economy of the region. what does folklife mean? Folklife is the set of beliefs and Behind the scenes throughout the year we’ll be diving into by Michelle Zacks practices handed down through generations and across these topics—look for the fruits of our research in new exhibits, different communities, things that are learned by watching lectures, special programs, and Members Nights—and, of or the past three years, Mary Helen Holmes has fasci- and doing, not through a book. course, at the Chesapeake Folk Festival next May! nated countless Museum visitors with her lightening Folklife is infused in everything we do at the Museum— Ffast and seemingly effortless crab picking techniques in the our festivals, programs, or just your average daily visit. Museum's Chesapeake People and Crab Cakes Programs. Apprentices hone their craft alongside master shipwrights in Born in Cordova, MD, Holmes was raised in St. Michaels our boatyard; African American and Mexican crab-pickers NEW DATE: from the age of seven. A graduate of Moton High School in check out each other’s technique in the Chesapeake People May 31, 2014 Easton, she began working at age 14 in order to buy school program; tugboat captains explain how they learned to cook Mary Helen Holmes gives a crab picking The annual Chesapeake Folk Festival clothes and help out her family. and clean aboard their vessel and brought those skills home is saying good-bye to the wilting demonstration to Talbot County students, Like many other Bay Hundred residents, black and in our new exhibit; a boogie-woogie pianist and a gospel heat of late July and looking forward explaining the difference between lump and singer merge their talents on stage for the first time, and to the gentler weather of spring, white, Holmes’ summers were spent skinning tomatoes at claw meat, and discusses working in packing women making quilts, sewing eel pot funnels, and gearing when it will join with Frederick the Harrison-Jarboe Canning Company in Sherwood (now plants and her impeccable reputation for keeping shells out of her product. gill nets share the underlying connection between their crafts Douglass Day. Mark your calendar home to Chesapeake Landing Restaurant). She also cracked at the Chesapeake Folk Festival. for next year to celebrate the crab claws at the Coulbourne and Jewett Seafood Packing Through oral histories, field work, and archival research, diverse music, crafts, food, and art Company on Navy Point. our efforts over the next several years will focus on three that make the Chesapeake Bay a Back when the Crab Claw Restaurant was Bill Jones’ Company in Wittman. Stop by and chat with Holmes on main topics: fun and interesting place to live, oyster, crab, and clam house, Holmes started shucking clams, July 27 during Cultures of Crabbing and learn more about this work, and play. continuing that work for 23 years at Ray Jones’ Seafood area’s rich agricultural and seafood history. 12 summer 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log summer 2013 13 feature

Kent County’s Tolchester Beach was just one of many new resort towns appearing throughout the East Coast shoreline. Magical fantasy lands A Whale of a Time offering every sort of amusement and diversion, these resort beaches provided relaxation and entertainment for the burgeoning middle-class city dwellers that flocked to them by the millions, kitted out in dotted Swiss dresses and stiff boater hats. Leaving Baltimore or Washington’s fetid harbors behind and heading into the slightly salty breeze of the open Bay, they embarked for destinations that promised pleasure, sunshine, and the essence of a Chesapeake summer. Often, these resort towns were completely artificial confections, Carefree passengers bound for a day's diversions at Tolchester Beach disembark from the steamboat Louise during the summer of 1919. For a few generations, postcards were one of the ways best to capture summer. Functioning much conjured from a swath of beachfront like text messages do today (the style of writing was termed “postcardese”), postcards were meant to be brief but by enterprising steamboat lines and sweet, and often the message they bore was only a sentence or two in length. In contrast to the traditional lengthy savvy entrepreneurs. Tolchester Beach missives, postcards were a radical new form of casual communication in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. was no exception. Its phantasmagorical rise from hidden local picnic spot to an excursion paradise was swift and busi- Throughout the United States, was as easy as catching an outbound nesslike. Purchased by the Tolchester destinations like Tolchester were on steamer at the harbor’s terminal. Beach Improvement Company, within the rise as a newly affluent generation Whether you were seeking a a few years the isolated, sandy stretch benefitted from labor laws restricting short day trip or a long recuperative of shoreline had been improved with the work week, the growth of job stay, whether you sought the solace a bluff hotel, a restaurant, bath houses opportunities for the middle-class, of every illicit pleasure or preferred and 500 rental bathing suits, stables, and scientific advances that proved a more family-friendly venue, from sheds, pavilions, bridges, a long wharf, time spent outdoors to be beneficial, the golden era of the 1880’s to the a carousel, a set of flying horses, and rather than dangerous, to body and 1940’s, there was a resort town waiting row boats. mind. But as more Americans moved for you. Tolchester Beach was one of Several elegantly-appointed steam- from farms to cities, that encourage- many steamboat-serviced beach towns boats including the iconic Louise and ment to take in nature was impeded throughout the Chesapeake offering Emma Giles provided service from the by smoke and dust from coal fires, the amusements, food, lodging, and swim- by Kate Livie Tolchester line pier at Light Street in odors and chemicals of heavy industry, ming, for a fee, and it was the only one Baltimore, carrying as many as 2,000 and in cities like Baltimore, the stench to boast a pickled whale in 1889. On June 1, 1889, a throng of genteel gawkers stood around the giant carcass. Although dead for passengers per trip to the cool breezes of open, above-ground sewers. Many Show-stopping amusements of this and endless diversions of a day on the metropolises were attempting to remedy sort were rare in most resort towns, quite some time, the whale was perfectly preserved and appeared almost completely lifelike. Billowing Chesapeake. Overlooking it all from this situation through the establishment however, and intended to drive up busi- wafts of formaldehyde emanated sickly-sweet from its thick, elephantine hide. Some of the more the park’s center, the circular band- of public parks, but in the meantime, ness during a slow summer. Normal adventurous in the crowd purchased tickets to enter the monster’s mouth, which in true Victorian stand echoed with the sentimental city residents needed an escape. summer festivities were of the usual fashion, was propped open to allow visitors an up-close-and-personal thrill normally afforded only refrains of musicales and barber shop Resorts offered a refuge from the halcyon sort: bathing in the Bay’s tepid quartets. At the time, it hardly seemed intensely crowded cities, and were water in a rented suit (swimming was to krill. It was a remarkable, if macabre sight, made all the more so by the fact that this Jonah-style possible that one day, at its new home located in places that took advantage such a new activity that most people amusement, offered in the northern part of the Chesapeake’s main stem, was hundreds of miles at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime of scenic beauty and fresh air. In the didn’t have their own swimsuit), having from the nearest whaling port. Indeed, the whale was killed in Cape Cod, and then pickled, sold, Museum in St Michaels, Maryland, Chesapeake region, the establish- your fortune told by a nifty machine this very bandstand would be almost ment of these resort towns along for a nickel, listening to the latest tune and transported as a tourist attraction for a new resort hot-spot: Tolchester Beach, Maryland. all that was left of Tolchester Beach’s steamboat lines meant a quick escape drifting from the bandstand as you gossamer gilded era. from Baltimore's stifling summer heat picnicked on cold biscuits with ham

14 summer 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log summer 2013 15 and pickles, riding on a miniature yellow locomotive called “Jumbo,” or feature enjoying a peach ice cream cone in the turreted mini-castle in the iconic dairy building. Visitors arriving for the day to partake of all these pleasures disembarked at Tolchester’s wide pier that beckoned toward the arched entrance gate, announcing “Tolchester Beach” in fancy boldface lettering. Behind, the Renaissance-revival façade of the dairy Bronza Parks Remembered provided shady porches with Bay vistas for guests sipping egg creams and malteds from tall, frosted glasses. It stood sentinel in front of the 52 acres of entertainment that included a carousel with hand-carved exotic animals, a roller coaster, shooting arcades, and a small lake as a Community Leader with electric boats visitors could captain. In a postcard sent to loved by Dick Cooper ones back home from Tolchester Beach, the appeal of these diversions with photos courtesy of the Warren “Pres” Harding Collection (as well as the downside) is clear: “Spending a day here at Tolchester. It’s terribly crowded.” In 1936, the Evening Sun reported that Tolchester was “woven into the happier recollections of most of us.” But these serene resort days were destined to last only as long as the steamboats did. Upon the construction of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, the hourglass was sifting for beaches like Tolchester. Automobiles and a taste for saltier water, bigger waves, and more thrilling attractions lured the public away from the placid dun-colored beaches of the Chesapeake to the sugary dunes and twinkling rides of Atlantic resorts. By 1962, Tolchester was closed and threatened by demolition, its rides dismantled. The dilapidated dairy and bandstand, husks of their former grandeur, sheltered only dry leaves and broken bottles. Parts of Tolchester still live on, however, in bits and pieces saved by a savvy collector, Walter B. Harris, who took away what he could before the resort was razed in the 1980s. Piece by piece, whole buildings were dismantled, restored, and rebuilt on his farm in Kent County, Maryland. The gilded mirror once hanging in splendor at Tolchester’s hotel was repurposed as a headboard, and at Echo Hill Camp next door to Harris’ home, an old amusement ride, “The Whip,” was reborn as a dining hall. But a farm in the upper Chesapeake isn’t the only place where the romantically idyllic days of rented swimsuits and stiff straw boater hats floating over a dance floor can be invoked. Right here at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, the old bandstand that once echoed brassy strains of ragtime now stands wedding-cake-white. he late master boatbuilder Bronza M. Parks has been Boasting a fresh coat of summer paint and ready to put on a show, the remembered for the hundreds of fine watercraft he built in Tolchester Beach Bandstand lives again, with entertainers delighting This Southern Dorchester County yard. Martha, the classic Hoopers visitors with tunes on a Saturday evening as fireflies drift over a crowd Island dove-tail, is one of the prizes of the Chesapeake Bay on blankets and in lawn chairs. The music might have changed, and Maritime Museum’s floating fleet. He built the Museum’s skipjack the outfits look a little less starched and proper, but close your eyes, Rosie Parks in 1955 for his brother, Orville, one of the best-known and you could be at Tolchester again, with cold lemonade in one hand watermen of the last century. But for his grandson, Warren “Pres” and your other arm around your best girl. Harding, Bronza Parks will always be the larger-than-life man who Parts of this article were excerpted from the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum’s education blog, was constantly looking for ways to help his neighbors and friends. Beautiful Swimmers. You can read about Tolchester Beach, and the history and people of the The reconstruction of the Rosie started at the Museum almost Chesapeake Bay by following it here: beautifulswimmers.tumblr.com three years ago and has sparked a renewed interest in the life and times of “Bronzie,” as he was known by his friends. Parks was a (From the top) The Tolchester Beach Bandstand at Tolchester Beach, circa early 1900s. Originally built in 1885, its roof was painted tan with red and green stripes. It is the last major 19th century structure physically big man and the boatyard he started in the 1930s was from the Tolchester Beach Amusement Park to survive. The Tolchester Beach Bandstand has many one of the largest employers in the area. He had 15 boats under uses on CBMM's campus, most notably during the Big Band Night Fourth of July fireworks, as a place (top) Bronza Parks, right, is squaring the foundation for the construction in and around his boat shop in May of 1958 when where couples exchange their vows, and during the annual Easter Sunrise Services. Lakes and Straits Firehouse. he was shot and killed by a mentally deranged customer during a (above) Bronza's Fire Department badge. dispute over the cost of a boat. He was 57.

16 summer 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log summer 2013 17 The hamlet of Wingate on the Honga “fire-fighting” equipment was a heavy- After the fire department was up the campaign trail. “He had been friends, the reconstruction of the old River, just north of Hooper Strait duty pump mounted on the front of an and running smoothly, Parks turned campaigning hard. He had a sign skipjack he built in 1955 has enabled where the Museum’s lighthouse once old military-surplus, four-wheel drive his attention to another project he on the top of his Lincoln with a PA them to share their stories with the stood, still owes a debt of gratitude truck that Parks owned. wanted to get going, forming a Boy speaker horn and a portable record general public. The Rosie Parks is now to the public works Parks helped The pump had a big hose that Scout troop in Wingate. Harding says player.” Parks would drive around the scheduled to be launched November 2 build. The original Lakes and Straits could be lowered into the deep, tidal his grandfather went to Tom Dean, county playing hymns over the loud during OysterFest at the Museum. Firehouse was constructed by Parks drainage ditches that lined the roads one of his oldest friends and craftsman speaker and telling people to come But the rebuilding almost did and other community members on throughout the region and supply in his boat shop. “Papa didn’t ask. He to the polls and vote for him. He not happen. Several members of the land next to his boatyard that he firefighters with water to spray on a just said, ‘You’re it.’ Papa knew who frequently played his favorite hymn, Museum’s board felt the boat was donated in the early 1950s. burning building. “If the tide was out, he could count on and he knew the “Just a Closer Walk with Thee.” too rotted to repair and they thought (top row, left to right) A cabin cruiser is towed from the B.M. Parks Boat Yard to be launched in Wingate Harbor. “What got it going was when a they were out of luck,” Harding says. community counted on him to get “He reached out to all communities,” it would be “throwing good money Members of the Lakes and Straits Fire Department man who was working under a house He says that to make sure there was things done.” Harding says. “I remember going with after bad,” recalls Museum President on Bronza's four-wheel drive truck. Fire Department touched a hot wire and was electro- enough water near the boat shop and Dean served as scoutmaster him in his car to many dinners at black Langley Shook. “It was rather contro- members digging the foundation of the firehouse. cuted,” Harding recalls in an email. the family home, his grandfather had a for several years before moving to churches in the area. They all knew versial about what we would do with The completed firehouse with trucks and ambulance The man was driven the 25 miles to 12-foot-deep pit dug near the build- Baltimore after Parks was killed. Papa. At this one dinner, I was asked if her. There was a faction on the board out front. the nearest hospital in Cambridge but ings that was always full. Harding says his grandfather was I wanted pig’s feet or chicken. I didn’t that thought we should take a chainsaw (above, top) Pres Harding and Barry Sterling stand died on the way. “That was when Papa “Us kids were not to go near it,” politically connected with the think too much of those pigs. I looked to her and haul her off to the landfill. next to campaign materials once used by Bronza said, ‘If we had an ambulance right Harding says. “But we got in and Democratic Party in Dorchester up to at Papa, holding on to his leg. And there was another faction that said Parks, which were donated to the Museum during last there, we could have saved that man’s swam across it. My sister, Brenda, got County and Annapolis, and frequently I remember the lady saying, ‘Oh, I no, restoring this iconic and prominent year's OysterFest. life.’” According to Harding, Parks in trouble because she let me.” lobbied on behalf of watermen before know what Captain Bronzie wants, he’s skipjack was right in the sweet spot of (bottom) Bronza's campaign card: went door to door in the close-knit The firehouse became one of the the state legislature. It was through having both.” our mission and we had almost a moral For County Commissioner community asking for no-interest most important buildings in town. Parks’ efforts in Annapolis that the Later on during the dinner a man obligation to restore her.” Vote for an Orphan Boy who became a loans to buy an ambulance, fire trucks The men all trained in firefighting small harbor in Wingate was dredged came up to Parks and thanked him for After much discussion, Shook says Business Man and a Winner, for the People, and to build the firehouse. The loans techniques and the women formed a and widened. the load of lumber that showed up at the general consensus was to go ahead through Hard Work. If Elected, You can be were paid back out of money made by Ladies’ Auxiliary. Bronza Parks was Parks was also a candidate in a their church for repairs to their steps with the restoration “although it was a assured I will Work Hard for Your Interests. having dinners and other fundrais- elected president and chief of the fire primary runoff for a seat as a Dorchester and other parts of the building. “He very close call, it could have gone either ers at the firehouse that also served as company. In 1956, he was awarded County Commissioner in May of knew it came from Papa’s boatyard.” way. Now, with the benefit of hindsight, a village gathering point and social a plaque honoring him for “Faithful 1958, and Harding has strong and While the memory of Bronza Parks I don’t think anyone will dispute that it hall. Lakes and Straits’ first piece of Service during Five Years as President.” fond memories of those days on has been kept alive by his family and was a wise decision.”

18 summer 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log summer 2013 19 feature

“Mahoganitis: a collection of people who just love the smell and feel and the great ride of a wooden boat.” - Chuck Warner

n the spring of 1982, five antique evolved into what it is today—the largest and metal boats will be on land and in ACBF, 2012 boats and wings, among them a event of its kind in the Mid-Atlantic the water for this ACBS-judged boat I30-foot, 1929 Gold Cup Racer, floated region. Paul Warner marvels at how show, including a selection of Chris in the harbor at the Annapolis City big the festival has become and how Craft, Larson, Gar Wood, Century, Dock during the very first Antique much the Chesapeake Bay Chapter Donzi, Shepherd, Trumpy, Lyman, and & Classic Boat Festival hosted by the has grown—CBC is one of the 57 U.S. more. Boats range from runabouts to newly-formed Chesapeake Bay Chapter and Canadian chapters of the Antique yachts, including race boats, work boats, (CBC) of the Antique & Classic Boat & Classic Boat Society, and has about launches, hydroplanes, and utilities. Society (ACBS). For the next few years, 250 members enrolled representing Workshops and seminars, building the show moved around to various more than six states. The Museum’s demonstrations, family activities, and locations in Annapolis and Baltimore, Facilities Manager John Ford recalls a nautical flea market will be available before settling at its current location, his first ACBF in 1990, and the sense throughout the weekend, along with a the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum of partnership between the Museum selection of regional and grilled foods, in St. Michaels, MD, where it now and the CBC that existed then, and music, and a Pyrat rum bar for libations hosts 130 plus boats and more than continues today. and other drinks. 3,000 festival-goers annually. “The first major decision I was asked On Saturday, June 15, the CBC The CBC’s founders, Chuck Warner, to make regarding the show concerned brings noted restoration expert and Paul Warner, Jim Duffy, and the late the move to its current June date,” says Complete Wooden Runabout Restoration Herb Zorn had a severe case of what Ford. “Ostensibly, the guaranteed heat Guide author Don Danenberg to the Chuck calls “Mahoganitis: a collection of August was the primary reason, but Steamboat Building as one of the day’s of people who just love the smell and feel actually the presenters realized that, in speakers. Danenberg will share his and the great ride of a wooden boat.” addition to the required work to get insights on proper yet efficient tech- It was Ginny and Bill Firth who their boats shined up and ready for the niques for restoring classic boats, work- encouraged the founders to make the beginning of the boating season, they ing with a restorer, and more. Seating is Museum the boat show’s permanent essentially had to do all that work over limited and available on a walk-in basis. home. As active members of ACBS in again in August to get ready for the Children’s activities include boat- Toronto, the Firths sought out a local show! For some folks, once per season building craft projects, and the Hagerty chapter after moving to Easton, MD, was enough.” Insurance Marine Youth Judging in 1987. After approaching ACBS This year's June 14-16 event once program, where youth learn about the president George Person, the Firths again brings an era of by-gone days to award-winning qualities of preserved ACBF, 1990 met with then Museum President John the Museum's waterfront campus. The and restored classic boats. Valliant and the festival was set for festival is highlighted by the largest Along the Fogg’s Landing side of August, 1987. Twenty boats lined the collection of antique and classic boats campus, the festival’s Field of Dreams docks by the Hooper Strait Lighthouse in the region, along with The Arts at features an array of restorable classic that first year, and the Firths hosted all Navy Point, where 70 juried fine artists, boats and motors, along with the 60 attendees at their house for dinner craftspeople, and vendors offer nautical nautical flea market sale. Antique & Classic Boat Festival on Friday night, with the help of Nancy and maritime-themed items for boat Festival hours are Friday, June 14, and Tab Miller. and home. Owners of some of the most from 11am to 5pm; Saturday, June 15, Over the last 26 years, chairs of the beautifully restored yachts and cabin from 10am to 5pm; and Father’s Day, festival have included Scott Tompkins, cruisers will offer boarding along the Sunday, June 16, from 10am to 2pm. Celebrates 26 Years, June 14-16 Herb Von Goerres (son-in-law of Museum's docks, with Friday noted as The event is free for CBMM founder Herb Zorn), Jeff Beard, Joan the best day for tours. The Museum's members and children under six, or by Marie Thomas & Tracey Munson, with research from “Musings From the Past” by Marcia Auth, from the Howell, and Maryann Fiaschetti, buyboat Mister Jim will offer scenic $13 for adults; $10 for seniors; and $6 who’ve each made unique contributions. cruises along the Miles River through- for children 6-17. Boat rides and food Spring, 2012 issue of “The Stuffing Box,” the members publication of the Chesapeake Chapter of ACBS. With the help of hundreds of volun- out the three-day festival. are additional. Call 410-745-2916 or teers, the annual festival has grown and More than 130 wooden, fiberglass, visit cbmm.org/acbf for information.

20 summer 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log summer 2013 21 on the rail calendar

hipwright apprentice Shane Elliott sums up the recent 4th Watermen’s Appreciation Day progress on the restoration of the skipjack Rosie Parks in Sa few words—sand, paint, sand, paint, repeat. “Good painting requires preparation and this means & Crab Feast, Sunday, August 11 much more than just sanding, but other types of prep as well,” says Elliott. The other types of prep include lead flashing for all of the joints at the stemhead, knightheads, and sampson post, which will be inaccessible after the bowsprit is installed and must be thoroughly protected. All of the flashing is bedded with a special blend of material that creates a very inhospitable environment for any type of fungal growth. The lead is nailed down with stainless steel Rosie Parks ringshank nails approximately one inch apart. The crew taped all of the previously varnished portions on the Rosie and then washed and mopped the deck with denatured alcohol to eliminate any dust and dirt. The top part is “rolled and tipped,” a technique that is common to the marine industry. A paint roller is used to apply the paint and is immediately "tipped" with a high quality paintbursh to eliminate roller marks, The bristle marks left by the brush then “lie down” with the liberal use of Penetrol, a brushing liquid added to the paint. The crew uses a flat oil-based marine paint and the first coat is applied with a 12 inch roller, but is not tipped—the ome to the Museum on Sunday, people tapping their toes and danc- can get an up-close view of the Museum’s roller marks will just be sanded out anyway. Each coat is August 11 to celebrate Chesapeake ing along the Museum’s waterfront floating fleet of historic Chesapeake hand sanded with 80 grit paper, quite a daunting task at Cwatermen and their heritage at the 4th as the Eastern Shore's favorite band vessels, along with a selection of work- first. In all, about 4 coats of paint will be applied. Annual Watermen’s Appreciation Day. plays live from the historic Tolchester ing watermen’s boats. Admission to the "We hear it every day from visitors, and we agree, it really Festival-goers will enjoy hot crabs, cold Beach Bandstand. Also beginning at 10am to 5pm event will be collected is a shame to paint over that beautiful Douglas Fir, but the beer, a boat docking contest, and live noon, the day’s catch of steamed crabs at the gate the day of the event and Rosie needs to be protected," explains Elliott. Rosie is set to music beginning at noon with Bird Dog will be served by Talbot waterman and includes the Bird Dog and the Road Kings launch at the Museum's November 2 OysterFest celebration. and the Road Kings. The event is hosted volunteers in a traditional Maryland concert and crab feast. Tickets are $25 by the Talbot County Watermen's crab feast. Beer, water/soda, hot dogs, for adults, $16 for kids 6-17, with all Association in cooperation with CBMM. hamburgers, ice cream, cake, and children under six admitted for free. j Coming to this year’s event are reality snow cones will be available through- Museum members along with Boatyard Program Manager Jenn Kuhn reports progress TV stars Edgar Hansen and Nick out the event. Kids and families can licensed watermen and their families is moving along nicely on the 15’9" deadrise sailing skiff AFAD Ghost Mavar, both from the F/V Northwestern enjoy games and activities all day long, get discounted admission at $15 per being built by Apprentice for a Day (AFAD) public boat- on Discovery Channel’s “Deadliest including model boat building, the adult, and $6 per child ages 6-17. building participants. The skiff will be a replica of the circa Catch,” along with Liz and Jessica rowing competition, and more. Tickets include all you can eat crabs, 1916 bateau skiff, Ghost, which is part of the Museum's Cavalier from the History Channel’s Scenic river cruises on the Museum’s one hamburger or hot dog, corn, soda, collection of historic Chesapeake boats. With the top side “Swamp People.” All will be available replica buyboat, Mister Jim, will be and water. Boat rides, beer and addi- and bottom planking installed then fared, it was time for autographs throughout the day, and offered every half hour from 10:30 to tional food will be available for purchase. for the molds of the sailing bateau to be popped off. This plan to be passengers aboard one of the 4:30pm at $5 per passenger, or free for For more information, call the Museum at allowed participants to flip the vessel over to continue boats in the docking contest. kids six and under. Bids can be placed 410-745-2916 or visit online at cbmm.org. the construction of its interior. Shipwrights, volunteers & Mister Jiim Beginning at 11am, you can watch on a number of silent auction items— AFAD participants added the remaining white oak stub professionals in a spirited “Watermen’s including work by noted Chesapeake frames, installed the cyprus centerboard trunk, constructed Rodeo” boat docking contest along artist Marc Castelli, alongside the the rudder, and designated the cut-out for the mast step. Fogg’s Cove. Children’s activities include Museum’s Small Boat Shed. Silent With the interior sealed and the mast partner in place, the Vessel Maintenance Manager Michael Gorman reports a Pot Pie skiff rowing competition, with auction bids can be made up until sassafras decking and white oak rub rails are next to be the Museum's replica buyboat, Mister Jim, received a new prizes awarded. Starting at noon, the 4:30pm, with proceeds supporting installed, while starting to shape the 25' mast. forward cabin featuring a new on-the-water classroom. classic rock, country, and blues sounds oyster restoration projects on the Bay. CBMM Legacy Partner Maryland Public of Bird Dog and the Road Kings will have Throughout the day, festival-goers Television is a sponsor of this event.

22 summer 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log summer 2013 23 calendar june/july/august Weekly Summer Events Oar Making Mister Jim Log Canoe Cruise Memorial Day through Labor Day Saturday & Sunday, June 8 & 9 Saturday, June 29 & Saturday, July 27 Summer Programs Free for members or with paid admission 10am-4pm. Two-day session is $50 for members, and $75 for 1pm, $20 members and $35 non-members Public Tours: 45-minute highlights tour, Fridays & Saturdays from 11am-2pm. non-members, plus the cost of materials, (approximately $50) Registration required by calling Helen Van Fleet at 410-745-4941 depending on oar dimensions. Registration required by June 5 Join Assistant Curator of Watercraft Richard Scofield aboard the Boater Safety Courses Watermen’s Wharf Docent Interpretation: Every day from 11am-3pm. to Jenn Kuhn at 410-745-4980 or [email protected] Museum’s buyboat, Mister Jim, to watch the log canoe races on June 12 & 13, July 17 & 18, August 15 & 16 Chesapeake People: Visit with authentic Chesapeake people who share their Under the direction of a CBMM shipwright, handcraft your own the Miles River. Log canoe races are a quintessential Chesapeake 6-10pm. $25 per two-evening session. Registration stories on Saturdays from 11am-3pm. set of oars specific to your vessel, or just for decoration. When pastime and Scofield will share his own experiences racing, required by calling Helen Van Fleet at 410-745-4941 Boatyard Skills Demonstration: Learn traditional boatyard skills from a registering, be sure to specify what type of vessel the oars are building, and growing up with log canoes. Individuals and families with children ages 12 and over can learn trained shipwright. Demonstrations are daily, times vary. for and our shipwright will help you to determine dimensions. the basics needed to operate a vessel on Maryland waterways. Model Guild Demonstrations: Chat with members of the Model Guild as they White pine will be provided unless another material is requested Maryland boaters born after July 1, 1972 are required to have a construct model replicas of Chesapeake Bay boats. Mondays, 9am-noon. in advance, or provided by participant. Bring a bagged lunch. july Certificate of Boating Safety Education. Graduates of our two-day Family Bags: Ask the Welcome Center for the use of a free Family Bag, Class size is limited. Department of Natural Resources-approved course are awarded a with interactive games and activities for ages seven and under. Education & On-the-Water Programs certificate for life. Antique & Classic Boat Festival CBMM’s Friday Open Boat Shop Friday, June 14, Saturday, June 15, Sunday, June 16. Special Events & Festivals Sailing Saturdays Fridays, June 7, July 26, August 9 & 23 Father’s Day Weekend: Fri., 11am-5pm, Sat., 10am-5pm, June 22, July 13, August 17, September 7 (Dates subject to weather) 5:30-8:30pm. $20 members; $30 non-members. Space is Sun., 10am-2pm. Free for members or with paid admission Sultana Eco Kayak Program $10 per person. Call Jenn Kuhn at 410-745-4980 to reserve, limited and pre-registration required. Participants must be 16 or This annual boat event is the largest of its kind in the Mid-Atlantic Wednesday, July 3 otherwise it’s first-come, first-served older, unless accompanied by an adult. Register with Jenn Kuhn region and features antique and classic boats, boatbuilding 9-11:30am, $35 members, $45 non-members Try your hand at sailing one of our small vessels, built in the at 410-745-4980 or [email protected] demonstrations, maritime artists and craftsmen, craft vendors, Registration required by calling Helen Van Fleet at 410-745-4941 Apprentice For a Day Public Boatbuilding program. Boats range Members of the public are invited to the boat shop to work on classic used boats, motors, and nautical flea market, along with Explore the environment, ecology, and history of the Chesapeake in size and are perfect for one to two people, with instructions small projects of their own, or to bring ideas for a future project, live music, food, and more. Read more on page 21. from a kayak! Join Sultana Vice President and naturalist Chris Cerino provided for beginners. and receive the advice of an experienced shipwright and as he explores the environment of the Museum and shares stories woodworker. Participants can expect assistance with machin- Kayak with the Midshore as you paddle along the surrounding shoreline. Learn about the Summer Kids Club ery and tools, plans, measurements, and the execution of their Miles River of today, and 400 years ago, as you seine, search for Riverkeeper Conservancy arrowheads, and navigate your kayak through Fogg’s Cove and June 24-28, July 8-12, July 22-26 for ages 4-5 small-scale project, which could include plans for a Christmas or Thursday, June 20 Miles Point. Kayaks, PFD’s, and paddles are provided. Personal July 1-5, July 15-19, July 29- August 2 for ages 6-7 birthday present, frames, furniture, models, artwork, etc. 10am, 11:30am, and 1pm. $35 members, $45 non-members kayaks are permissible. Children ages 12 and up may attend but $125 for members and $150 for non-members. Registration Registration by calling Helen Van Fleet at 410-745-4941 must be accompanied by an adult in a personal tandem kayak. required by calling Helen Van Fleet at 410-745-4941 june Kayak along the scenic Miles River with the Midshore Riverkeeper Kids Club is a half-day long, hands-on Chesapeake-focused camp Conservancy. Participants leave from the Museum’s living shore- MEMBER NIGHT: The Classic Yacht Elf for kids ages 4 to 7 where children learn about the Bay firsthand line, and head out to explore the creeks and shorelines of the Wednesday, July 10 at the “F” Dock, (by the Small Boat Shed) through activities, stories, games, and crafts. Scholarships available. Education & On-the-Water Programs Miles River. Children over six are welcome, and kayaks, paddles, 5:30pm, Free for members Summer Sailing Program Special Events & Festivals and safety vests are provided. RSVP to Debbie Collison at 410-745-4991 Sessions held June 24 through August 18 Join the Elf’s Captain Rick Carrion, founder of the Classic Yacht Morning, afternoon, and weekend sessions FREE CONCERT: United States Naval Academy Visiting Vessel: Restoration Guild, as he explores the early racing career of this $200 for CBMM members and $250 for non-members Viking ship Norseman 1888 Lawley-built, 30-foot class wooden sailing yacht, her exten- Registration required by calling Helen Van Fleet at 410-745-4941 Band Commandant’s Combo sive restoration, and the evolution of her historic relationship to the Tuesday, June 4 June 21 through June 23 Chesapeake Bay, and to the Museum. Elf is listed on the National The Summer Sailing program helps new sailors and old salts 6pm at the Tolchester Free with Museum admission Register of Historic Places. The Elf will be dockside at the Museum gain the confidence to sail a small boat in a fun and safe envi- Beach Bandstand The 40-foot half-scale replica for this special presentation. Light refreshments served. ronment while learning the rules of the water. You're invited to enjoy a free of the famous Gokstad ship Junior Sailing for ages 8-16 concert featuring the United will offer Museum visitors a Exploring an Ironclad Legend: the USS Monitor BASIC SAILING: INTERMEDIATE SAILING: States Naval Academy real-life look at a Viking ship Thursday, July 11 in the Van Lennep Auditorium June 24-29: 8:30am-12noon, 1-4:30pm July 8-12: 8:30am-12noon (USNA) Band’s The and the type of people who 5:30pm, $10 for members, $20 for non-members July 1-5: 8:30am-12noon, 1-4:30pm July 15-19: 1-4:30pm Commandant’s Combo. sailed them more than 1,000 Registration required by calling Helen Van Fleet at 410-745-4941 July 8-12: 1-4:30pm July 29-August 2: 8:30am-12noon Guests are encouraged to years ago. Join Mariner Museum’s conservator Will Hoffman as he discusses July 15-19: 8:30am-12noon August 12-16: 1-4:30pm bring lawn chairs, with carry- The ship will be available for the restoration of artifacts from the USS Monitor—a Civil War icon August 5-9: 8:30am-12noon, 1-4:30pm ADVANCED SAILING on alcohol strictly prohibited for this event. CBMM’s Rosie’s Tavern viewing dockside, with limited, and pivotal piece of American history. Today a National Marine August 12-16: 8:30am-12noon July 29-August 2: 1-4:30pm will be serving wine and beer. Water and other non-alcoholic bever- free rides available for CBMM Sanctuary, the USS Monitor's history and the Battle of Hampton ages, as well as hamburgers and other foods will also be available visitors, weather permitting. Roads will be explored by Hoffman as well as the on-going Adult/ Teen Weekends for purchase. No advanced registration required. conservation work with recovered artifacts from the ironclad July 20-22 and August 17-18 wreckage now in the collections of the Mariner’s Museum.

24 summer 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log summer 2013 25 calendar Bronze Casting august Demonstration Friday, July 12 in the Education & On-the-Water Programs Watermen’s Appreciation Day & Crab Feast Museum Boatyard Special Events & Festivals Sunday, August 11 10am-noon 10am-5pm. General admission $25 adults, $6 children ages 6-17. $30 for members, John Mock Concert $15 adults, $6 children for members, and licensed watermen and their families. Admission includes all-you-can-eat crabs, and $50 for non-members Tuesday, August 6 in the Van Lennep Auditorium one free hamburger or hot dog per person (with more available Registration required 5:30pm, $15 for members, $25 for non-members for purchase), corn, soda/water. Kids under six are free. by July 10 to Helen Van Registration suggested by calling Helen Van Fleet at 410-745-4941 Fleet at 410 -745-4941 Enjoy all-you-can-eat crabs, listen to live music from local favorite Join musician and photographer John Mock as he performs an Bird Dog and The Road Kings, and watch a boat docking contest Join the Mariner’s evening of original compositions on the guitar, concertina, and as you learn about and celebrate the heritage of Chesapeake Museum conservator tin whistle, all accompanied by a photographic slideshow docu- watermen. Read more on page 23. Will Hoffman as he menting the Maritime vistas that inspire his music. All ages will discusses the casting enjoy John’s musical mastery and engaging storytelling as he replication project of one of the artifacts from the USS Monitor, evokes the essence of the sea in his images and melodies. 16th Annual Charity Boat Auction including iron and bronze parts. Following the discussion, LABOR DAY WEEKEND: Sunday, August 31 Hoffman and nationally-renowned sculpture artist and Shepherd Log Canoe Racing on the Chesapeake Gates open at 8am; University professor Christian Benefiel will cast a replication of an Thursday, August 8 in the Van Lennep Auditorium auction begins at 1pm. oarlock from the Monitor in bronze using traditional pattern and 1:30pm, $8 for members, $14 for non-members Free for members and molding methods. Registration required by calling Helen Van Fleet at 410-745-4941 children under six. General TAYLOR - Join Assistant Curator of Watercraft, Richard Scofield, as he Bronze Casting Four-day Workshop admission is $5 per person explores the history, culture, and craft of the iconic Chesapeake Thursday, July 18 through Sunday, July 21 log canoe. Scofield, a master shipwright and avid sailor, has until 1:30pm, afterward, 9am-4pm all four days, $160 for members, $200 for non-members, spent his life on the Bay racing and crewing these iconic vessels, regular admission rates apply.

RAHA SCOTTM plus the cost of materials, (approximately $100)

G and though stories and photographs he will share his experi- To donate a boat or items for Registration required by July 12 to Helen Van Fleet 410-745-4941 BY ences restoring, competing, and appreciating log canoes. the tag sale, call Lad Mills Join nationally renowned sculpture artist and Shepherd at 410-745-4952 or email PHOTO University professor Christian Benefiel as he guides you Lathe Demonstration [email protected] through the intricacies of bronze casting, including creating Thursday, August 8 in the Museum Boatyard molds, working the sand and furnace, and pouring the hot metal. 5-6pm, $10 members, $25 non-members Boating experts and novices NEW BAND! Take home a working knowledge of casting metal and your own Registration required by calling Helen Van Fleet at 410-745-4941 alike have the same opportu- creation cast in bronze. For ages 16 and up. Big Band Night / Fireworks Ever wonder how to turn an object on a lathe? A lathe is a nity to bid on the boat of their Saturday, July 6 (Rain date July 7) Cruising with the Miles River Riverkeeper machine tool that rotates the work piece on its axis to perform dreams! Offering everything various operations such as cutting, sanding, knurling, drilling, and from wooden rowing skiffs to classic sailboats and modern 7-10pm at the Tolchester Beach Bandstand Friday, July 19 more. Join us in the Boat Shop for a quick look at how to turn an power cruisers. Buy an affordable boat for a great price and $5 for members, $10 for non-members, under 12 free 10-11:30am, $15 for members, $20 for non-members object safely—bowl, furniture piece, whatever you’re working on. support the Museum! The Olney Big Band performs at this special Independence Day Registration required by calling Helen Van Fleet at 410-745-4941 celebration. Stay into the evening and enjoy the St. Michaels Join Miles Riverkeeper Tom Leigh on CBMM’s Mister Jim for an fireworks over the Miles River. Two vocalists will join the up-close and personal exploration of the Miles River's unique 17-member Olney Big Band—directed by longtime professional Chesapeake Uncharted habitat and ecology. Learn how to monitor the water quality of save-the-date! musician and conductor Dr. Robert Tennyson, to perform all the river and try your hand at water testing, explore the critters 16th Boating Party Fundraising Gala: the big band era greats through present day. on an oyster reef, and discover the Miles through the eyes of its Saturday, September 7, 2013 (new date) The Olney Big Band has entertained audiences from as Riverkeeper while cruising in the breeze on the Chesapeake Bay Mid-Atlantic Small Craft Festival $200 per person or $2,000 for a table close as Blues Alley in Washington D.C. to as far away as the Maritime Museum’s buyboat. Families with children encouraged! of ten, with Benefactor and Corporate Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland with their special brand Saturday, October 5 & Sunday, October 6 sponsorships available. For tickets and of swing, jazz, and dance music, and were selected as Ambassadors 10am-5pm, free for members or with Museum admission Mister Jim Log Canoe Cruise information, contact Cheryl Miller at of Big Band Music by the Sally Bennett Big Band Hall of Fame Saturday, July 27 in Florida. 410-745-4943 or [email protected] 1pm, $20 for members and $35 for non-members OysterFest & Skipjack Rosie Parks launch A variety of food, non-alcoholic beverages, and desserts Registration required by calling Helen Van Fleet at 410-745-4941 Saturday, November 2 Be a part of the Museum's fall gala are offered. Guests can bring their own food and drinks as fundraiser which includes cocktails, Join Assistant Curator of Watercraft Richard Scofield aboard the 10am-4pm, free for members or with Museum admission well. After 8:45pm, admission will be reduced to $2 for those dinner, and dancing on Navy Point. Back Museum’s buyboat, Mister Jim, to watch the log canoe races on watching the fireworks only. Event proceeds benefit the children by popular demand this year are the XPD's and adults served by CBMM’s educational, exhibit, and boat the Miles River. Log canoe races are a quintessential Chesapeake Visit cbmm.org to see our full calendar of events, and PeachBlossoms catering. Funds restoration programs. pastime and Scofield will share his own experiences racing, building, and growing up with log canoes. or follow us on Facebook or Twitter! raised support the Museum's mission.

26 summer 2013 the chesapeake log the chesapeake log summer 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