December 11, 2014

We will see Ernestina-Morrissey sail again. I say that today not as a hope or a wish, but as a certainty.  Thanks to your generous support, her next voyage will be as a fully restored ship, sailing from Boothbay to Buzzards Bay.

So many people have told me that this ship is deeply important to them personally - their family members sailed on her during her first years as a Grand Banks Fishing Schooner; they began their immigrant journey aboard her from Cabo Verde; they had a life-changing overnight educational experience on the sea; or their ancestors went on an Arctic expedition aboard Ernestina-Morrissey. They are changed by her. 

We will see her sail again, and here's the plan that is now in motion to make it happen:

• Boothbay Harbor Shipyard in Maine will complete the total renovation for $6 million.
• Two private philanthropists have donated $2.8 million.
• The Commonwealth has pledged $2.5 million.
• SEMA has raised $285,000 to date.
• SEMA has agreed to raise the additional funds needed -- $415,000 -- to complete her restoration.
• Mass Maritime Academy has committed to be Ernestina-Morrissey's future caretaker, ensuring her sailing future for many years to come.

The ship will be towed to Boothbay Harbor Shipyard within the next month. We will gather at the State Pier in New Bedford (and I hope you will join me!) and say, "Farewell," or perhaps more appropriately, "Fair winds and following seas." We will envision the day when she will return, sails full of wind, a shiny bowsprit reflecting the bright sun, and thousands of people --- all who were touched by her --- joyfully cheering her on.

The total restoration is only assured ifSEMA can raise the $415,000 needed to complete the work. We are in the home stretch of what's been a marathon, and we MUST make it happen! Please give generously as you are able to ensure Ernestina-Morrissey swift return from Boothbay to Buzzards Bay. Thank you.

With gratitude for the realization of our collective dream,

Julius Britto