Community

Peconic Landing to unveil never-before-seen whaling artifacts

Scrimshaw[3]WP

Starting with the Manhasset Native Americans in the 1700s, Greenport earned its reputation as a whaling port. For decades, it was a hub of activity for sailors fresh from their latest expedition.

Now, with the village’s whaling days long over, a lecture at Peconic Landing will shine a light on the harbor’s legacy.

Whaling curator Michael P. Dyer will speak at Peconic Landing Community Center next month about Greenport’s illustrious whaling history and share never-before-seen artifacts.

Mr. Dyer, the Senior Maritime Historian at the New Bedford Whaling Museum in Massachusetts, and has been working maritime collections in museums since 1988. He is also an author and presenter on topics of American whaling history.

The lecture, called “Tuthill’s Memorial: Tragedy and Triumph in Greenport’s Whaling Heyday 1833-1860,” will celebrate Greenport’s maritime history through the story of David G. Floyd, a professional whaler.

Following the lecture, the artifacts, which include Floyd’s logbooks from his time on the whaling ships “Italy” and “Prudent,” will be unveiled at Brecknock Hall. Transportation between the locations will be provided. Brecknock Hall will continue to display the Floyd Estate artifacts until Dec. 12.

One of David G. Floyd's logbooks from his time on whaling ships "Italy" and "Prudent" (Credit: Courtesy).
One of David G. Floyd’s logbooks from his time on whaling ships “Italy” and “Prudent” (Credit: Courtesy).

The Southold Historical Society, The Brecknock Hall Foundation and Peconic Landing are teaming up to offering the exhibit, with support from a private donor. Additionally, Oysterponds Historical Society and Suffolk County Historical Society contributed to the exhibit.

The event will be held Saturday Nov. 14 at 3 p.m. and is free to all attendees. To RSVP visit www.peconiclanding.ticketleap.com or call 477-3800.

To schedule a private tour, contact Ted Webb at 235-8681.

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Photo Caption: A scrimshaw — whalebone, ivory, shell or other material with adorned carvings — from the 1800s (Credit: Courtesy).