Snapped this shot yesterday in Old Town, a tug boat slipping past Waterfront Park. The boat in the foreground is the "SV Potomac." This will be one of historical plaques in my book. I'm in a bit of a slump, but I am determined to see this through.
"The boat at the end of this pier is a Potomac River Dory named the SV Potomac. The rugged design and shallow-draft made it a practical and popular boat with the 19th and early 20th Century watermen who harvested oysters, shad, and herring in the Potomac’s tributaries. The dory was more stable, and better sailing than the other vessels of the time and its low sides and V-shaped hull allowed it to easily haul nets and carry a greater catch.
The SV Potomac was built by the Alexandria Seaport Foundation and launched on May 6th, 1995 to serve the Foundation’s outreach programs. It is a replica of the original Potomac River dory-boats, which traditionally ranged from 19 to 34 feet in length, but was built at 42 feet specifically to accommodate its intended use as a “floating classroom” for the Seaport Foundation.
Today the Alexandria Seaport Foundation uses an innovative contextual education program designed to help disadvantaged and at-risk youths achieve their high scholl equivalency diplomas while preparing for jobs. The design and construction of traditional wooden boats is the focal point of this education.
ASF’s headquarters are located in a floating building located on the water between Cameron and Queen Streets (two blocks north of here). If you’re interested in the program or would just like to visit and learn more, the best times are generally from Monday through Friday, from noon until 4 p.m. Please do stop in or visit our website."
Comments