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The Delaware Maritime Hall of Fame announced Gov. Ruth Ann Minner will unveil the inaugural Delaware Maritime Hall of Fame trophy at 7:30 p.m., July 13,. on the deck of the Lightship Overfalls in Lewes. In the event of rain, the unveiling will be held in St. Peter’s Parish Hall at Second and Mulberry Streets in Lewes.
Minner’s strong interest in Delaware’s maritime history encourages both maritime preservation efforts and recognition of the people who have excelled in their contributions to the rich history of Delaware and the sea. Delaware Maritime Hall of Fame committee chairwoman, Bonnie Dougherty, said, “We are honored that she will unveil the beautiful trophy for the inaugural Delaware Maritime Hall of Fame at this event on board Lewes’ maritime icon, the Lightship Overfalls.”
The inaugural trophy, which was designed and created by local artist Connie Ballato, represents the achievements of those who have given uniquely and generously of skill, energy, heart and time in building Delaware’s maritime heritage.
Trophies will be awarded to the first group of inductees into the Delaware Maritime Hall of Fame at the inaugural Induction Banquet on Saturday, Oct. 6, at the Lewes Yacht Club. Maritime Hall of Fame inductees will receive special recognition and their achievements will be highlighted at this event. Tickets to the banquet are available to the public at $75. Contact Joan Reader at 645-9290.
The purpose of the Delaware Maritime Hall of Fame is to honor those who have given uniquely and generously of skill, energy, heart and time in building Delaware’s maritime heritage. Since its initial whaling settlement in 1631, Delaware has had an intimate relationship with the sea that continues on today.
Among the community members to carry on this heritage include watermen, pilots, lifesavers, navigators, tradesmen, businessmen, and military personnel, all of which depend on their proximity to the Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean for their life’s work.
The goal of the Delaware Maritime Hall of Fame is to celebrate maritime legacies while educating future generations about Delaware’s maritime heritage.
The Delaware Maritime Hall of Fame is sponsored by the Overfalls Maritime Museum Foundation, an all-volunteer organization that is committed to preserving one of America’s last remaining lightships. An important part of its mission is “to collect, preserve, honor and teach the maritime history of the Delaware Bay and the coastal region.”
The Delaware River and Bay Pilots Association, The Delaware River and Bay Authority, and Dover Downs have also contributed to this endeavor. Additional sponsorships are available for this event.
For more information on the Overfalls Maritime Museum Foundation, the Lightship Overfalls and the Delaware Maritime Hall of Fame, visit www.overfalls.org.
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