Tales of Marine Disasters Through Years

The seas surrounding the westernmost end of the Island are home to a great many treacherous ledges, rips and ridges. The men and women who lived for centuries atop the high cliffs bore witness to the final failures of countless vessels as they were laid to waste, caught in the wet and craggy traps laid by Great Moshup, splintered into so much stick, slab, shred and meaningless tackle by the profound detachment of Mother Ocean, and then lost forever to the depths, the salting bones of the crews are now the exclusive ward of Captain Davy Jones.

Shipwrecks are fascinating, and the Aquinnah Gay Head Community Association knows that. Which is why they are holding a wine and cheese reception this Monday, August 17, at 5:30 p.m. at the Aquinnah old town hall, where the evening’s theme will be a discussion of the many ships wrecked off the Gay Head coastlines, and around the Vineyard in general.

Guest speaker Arnold Carr became interested in shipwrecks at a young age. Years later, he has become an expert in locating and photographing these awesome wrecks. Mr. Carr has found over 30 shipwrecks off Vineyard shores alone, and over 300 in waters surrounding greater New England.

This event will be free of charge, although contributions to help defray expenses are welcomed. Ample parking will be available.

Those with artifacts, photos and other items that relate to shipwrecks are asked to feel free to bring them along, as there will be tables set up for their viewing. Also, attendees are encouraged to bring finger foods.

For planning purposes, it would be helpful to the hosting association to receive either an e-mail addressed to info@aghca.org or a telephone call to 508-645-9630, so they know how many to expect.