“Jaws” Child Actor Appointed Police Chief on Martha’s Vineyard, Island Where Movie was Shot

In 1975, 9-year-old Jonathan Searle appeared in Steven Spielberg’s blockbuster movie “Jaws.” In the movie, Searle and his real-life brother, Steven, memorably played two pranksters who caused mass panic on the beach after swimming into the ocean with a cardboard fin. … Continue reading

Black History Month Repost: Paul Cuffe — African-American Captain, Ship Owner & Shipbuilder

During Black History Month, it is worthwhile to remember early African-American shipmasters. Who was the first? That is hard to say. Paul Cuffe is a good candidate.  An updated repost. Paul Cuffee was born on Cuttyhunk Island, MA on January … Continue reading

Remembering Captain William A. Martin — Black Whaling Ship Captain From Martha’s Vineyard

As Black History Month winds to a close it seems worthwhile to recall Captain William A. Martin, the best remembered black whaling ship captain from Martha’s Vineyard. He is often referred to as the only black whaling captain from the island. … Continue reading

Wind Power and Hot Air – Cape Wind Still in Doubt as Google Shows Some Backbone

According to one study the US has enough offshore wind to power the country four times over.  In Europe there are currently 830 wind turbines now installed and grid connected, totalling 2,063 MW in 39 wind farms in nine European … Continue reading

Schooner: Building a Wooden Boat on Martha’s Vineyard

I haven’t seen it yet but Schooner: Building a Wooden Boat on Martha’s Vineyard by Tom Dunlop,  looks fascinating. From the publisher:   Schooner takes you through the construction of Rebecca of Vineyard Haven, a sixty-foot wooden schooner designed and built by … Continue reading