Dorjun caught my eye during a visit to Port Townsend this year and became even more interesting as I learned her history. She was built in 1905 for the U.S. Lifesaving Service, the precursor to today’s Coast Guard, until she was retired in 1937. After that this 26 foot wooden boat was documented by National Geographic as she sailed through the Straits of Magellan at the tip of South America.
In 1946, like many historic working boats, she sank and was abandoned for several years on a mudbank. She was eventually rescued and has since been restored a couple of times. As you can see, she looks pretty good for a lady of 109 years.
The old babe has an amazing history.
Your photo of that boat and post has whet my appetite. I googled it and found many articles about it. As soon as I finish typing I’m going to go back and read some of them. Will send you a post about Seattle a bit later.
A lovely old lady for sure. The composition of the photo reminds me of east coast fishing villages. It was great to hear her story too. Looks like we have sunshine for a week – lots of time on the deck and working in the flowers – ahhhh spring in Washington. We visited Guemes Island yesterday – what a charming little island – have you been there yet? We plan more visits to the islands this summer.
She’s a beautiful boat! Wow! Is it true they don’t make like they did in the ol’ days (except for your husband, of course)? I hope I look as good at 109, you know, in a couple of years! 🙂
Re your comment on Ocala: Nope. Not part of uniform. Just a bagger who may have been in the bag!
She’s a real beauty!
She looks gorgeous, Kay. Wooden boats are very popular on the Connecticut River. There is a festival every summer. I hope I am around when it is staged this summer.