Mystic Seaport is inviting the public to take part in an exciting, unprecedented public-history project. Beginning December 1, 2013, the Museum is accepting project proposals from talented, self-motivated adults from a range of disciplines and backgrounds to document and share their experiences during the Charles W. Morgan‘s commemorative 38th Voyage.
From mid-May to early August 2014, the Morgan will sail for the first time in more than 80 years. During her first 37 voyages (1841-1921), the 1841 whaleship ventured into all the world’s oceans in pursuit of whale oil and baleen, carrying multi-ethnic crews and coming into contact with many different cultures. For her 38th Voyage, the Morgan will sail to seven historic New England ports, engaging communities with their maritime heritage, raising awareness of the changing perceptions about whales, and furthering research about whales, whaling, and whaling peoples.
During the day-long passages between ports, Museum staff will examine the voyage to better understand the past experiences of those who sailed the Morgan and other whaleships like her. Mystic Seaport seeks additional public participants to become 38th Voyagers and sail aboard one voyage leg (one night plus the following day) of the ship’s historic journey. Voyagers will document and filter their experience aboard the 1841 vessel through their own perspectives and talents, producing finished products for Mystic Seaport to share online and through exhibits, publications, and public programs.
The Museum welcomes proposals from a range of individuals, including artists, scientists, writers, teachers, whaling descendants, explorers, and other adventurers. Volunteer participants will need a high level of zest, grit, humor, and flexibility in approaching this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Full project proposals must be submitted by email, fax, or mail by January 7, 2014 and top candidates will be contacted to schedule interviews in mid-January 2014. Finalists will be notified by early March 2014. For complete details and application instructions, visit www.mysticseaport.org/38thvoyagers.
The 38th Voyagers program has been made possible in part by a major grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Exploring the human endeavor. Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
