| On August 22nd early morning fog
gave way to a perfect summer day as a capacity crowd boarded the historic Madaket
for Eureka Heritage Society's sold-out membership event, Sailing Back
in Time.
Leroy Zerlang guided our trip down the Bay, indicating
sites and giving brief histories of the industries that built Humboldt
County. As he pointed out the fishing activities and lumber
industries that still remain, we had much food for thought about the
future of the waterfront. Harbor seals swimming by and the sight of
numerous sea birds, from cormorants and pelicans to various long-legged
waders, hinted at the richness and diversity of wildlife in Humboldt Bay.
The Coast Guard welcomed our group to their beautiful site
on the North Spit with gracious hospitality. The main facility,
constructed in 1936, is a National Register Site. Built in classic
New England style, it consists of two 2-story gabled houses, with a marine
way and work area surmounted by a lookout tower joining them at the
center. We were given an informative tour of the facilities and
equipment which enabled us to visualize the work life of the on-duty
personnel at the station. One of the first motorized vessels used by the
Coast Guard was on view, as well as the present-day boats with which the
respond to calls from mariners in distress. When we learned that in 1878
the installation was described as a Life Saving Station manned by a
"keeper and six surfmen" who powered their boats by rowing, it
made the viewing of today's very sophisticated marine technology all the
more impressive.
Our tours were followed by a very generous and delicious
lunch prepared by the Coast Guard and enjoyed by our group at outdoor
picnic tables with beautiful Bay views extending around us. Homeward
bound in sunshine and mild breezes, Leroy pointed out a kingfisher flying
by and told us the bird is considered good luck by sailors. It
seemed a perfect conclusion to a very interesting and enjoyable
excursion. We felt lucky to have had this opportunity to go Sailing
Back in Time on Humboldt Bay.
---- Elizabeth Thompson Photo's from
Sailing Back in Time Click on Photo
for larger image
 |
Boarding the Madaket |
EHS Treasurer, Doris Timm, checks in the
passengers |
| EHS
President, Mary Beth Wolford welcomes members to Sailing Back in
Time |
Cormorants dry off on a pier |
6 EHS Members on Coast Guard Cutter |
|
