Pictures from Commodore's Visit
Nov 2007 - Page 2
Page 1 - Commodore
Olliverre & "Bluff"
Page 2 -
"Perseverance," "Iron Duke" & Mr. Simmons
Page 3 - Sir James Mitchell & other
double-enders
The Commodore was very happy to see Perseverance in person for 2 reasons. First was a total happenstance. During his first visit to Bequia in 2006, the Commodore's wife purchased two small paintings for their children of double-enders racing or preparing for the Easter Regatta. One of these paintings was of "Perseverance" about to be launched from the beach. In the ensuring two years, the icon of this boat had been etched into the Commodore's mind. Second is the personality of the name. Manhattan Sailing Club has endured great hardship and challenge along its path towards success. If any sailing club emboided the spirit of perseverance, it could be ours.
Here are some close-ups of "Perseverance" to be studied by our sailors followed by pictures of 2 more great double-enders.
"Iron Duke" is the double-ender which started it all. This was the second-hand New England whale boat which Old Bill Wallace purchased in order to bring whaling to Bequia. Originally built in the 1800s, the Iron Duke has been restored several times and most recently in time for the 2006 regatta.
Next to the "Iron Duke" is another 28-footer called "Trouble."
Both "Iron Duke" and "Trouble" are owned by Mr. Sylvester Simmons who also owns De Reef Bar & Restaurant on Lower Bay. Mr. Simmons is a merchant mariner and runs a tug and barge company in the Grenadines. He helped to restore the "Iron Duke" and is a past President of the Island's Rotary Club. Mr. Simmons has visited New York City and once took a radar course at the Seaman's Church Institute when it was still located on State Street.