What is the difference between a pirate and a privateer? Did either of them ever say, “Arrrrgh”? Is there pirate treasure buried on Sconticut Neck? What happens after hundreds of British redcoats eat a hearty breakfast of baked beans?
Find out the answers by bringing the family to hear tales of pirates, Revolutionary War era privateers, and historical Fort Phoenix during the Pirates & Privateers Presentations, given each Friday morning at 10:00 a.m., starting on June 1. The presentations take place near the flag pole and cannons at Fort Phoenix, Fairhaven. They will be held weekly through the end of September.
The piratical proceedings are led by Greybeard, an 18th century gunner from the privateer sloop Broome, and Abigail “Abby” Black, a ship’s doctor who grows herbal remedies in her village garden when she’s not at sea. Also on hand will be Andrew, a ship’s boy or “powder monkey,” who serves on the cannon crew.
At the presentations you’ll learn about the real privateers who sailed in and out of Fairhaven’s harbor during the American Revolution. You will find out the difference between pirates and “legal” privateers, which “pirate facts” are really just myths based on fiction. Abby will talk about women aboard ships and how wounded or ill sailors were cared for. Andrew will explain the workings of cannons and Greybeard will demonstrate firing a real black powder swivel gun.
The popular presentation, created in 2016 by the Fairhaven Office of Tourism, is suitable for all ages. It is presented free of charge. There is free parking in the Fort Phoenix parking lots at the south end of Fort Street or Green Street. A paved, handicap accessible path leads from the parking area to the fort. The presentations are held weather permitting.
For more info, call 508-979-4085 or email FairhavenTours@fairhaven-ma.gov.
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