New Bedford Celebrates Return Of Wooden Whaling Ship
NEW BEDFORD (CBS) - The last wooden whaling ship in the world will soon return to its original port in New Bedford.
A homecoming ceremony for the Charles W. Morgan will be held on June 28 at 10 a.m. in New Bedford and public tours of the ship will be held at 1 p.m. They will run through July 6. Afterwards, the ship will sail to Provincetown and Boston. It will be permanently docked next to the U.S.S. Constitution in Boston.
"For me, it's one of the most historical maritime events of my generation," said Captain Kip Files of the Charles W. Morgan ship. "We need to learn a little bit more about this vessel. The only way we're going to learn is to sail. I am privileged to take that command."
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Kendall Buhl reports
The ship first launched from New Bedford in 1841 and was later retired in the 20th century when the whaling industry fell on hard times.
"She has been all over the world numerous times hunting whales," Files said. "She has a huge historical connection to this country."
To find more about a schedule of events and parking, visit the official website.
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