Andrew Maynard

Maynard & Urban Secure State Funds to Restore the Charles W. Morgan

Oldest surviving merchant vessel will be used to educate Connecticut students

State Senator Andrew Maynard (D-Stonington) and State Representative Diana Urban (D-North Stonington & Stonington) announced today that the State Bond Commission has approved funds for the restoration of the Charles W. Morgan—the oldest American commercial vessel still in existence and a National Historic Landmark.

“The Charles W. Morgan is one of Connecticut’s greatest treasures. The Morgan reminds us of our state’s past, the rise and fall of great industries, and Connecticut’s ongoing maritime tradition. Restoration of the ship will draw millions more tourists to Mystic Seaport, and educate children and adults alike about the history and culture of Connecticut,” said Senator Maynard.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for real world learning for Connecticut students. Restoring the Charles W. Morgan is a project that celebrates our marine environment and legacy, gives us a window into the past and engages Connecticut kids in the process. As the ship makes her journey to New England ports she will also serve as an ambassador for all the great things Mystic has to offer,” said Rep. Urban.

Mystic Seaport is currently restoring the Charles W. Morgan in the Seaport’s shipyard for a 2014 voyage to multiple historic ports in New England. The State Bond Commission approved $500,000 today in support of the effort. As part of this project, the Seaport is developing educational resources and programs for Connecticut schools to use the Charles W. Morgan as a tool to teach students about the state’s past.

The Seaport has also received a $500,000 grant from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services to help build an Online Learning Community featuring the Charles W. Morgan as central content for an interactive curriculum.

Built and launched in New Bedford in 1841, the Charles W. Morgan sailed on 37 voyages covering the entire globe over a whaling career that lasted 80 years. A powerful draw for Connecticut’s tourism industry, more than 20 million people have walked the decks of the Charles W. Morgan since she arrived at the Seaport.