From 1815 to 1863 the Shiverick Shipyard on Sesuit Creek in Dennis produced eight gloriously fast Clipper Ships. Yes right here on Cape Cod. A grandson, George Shiverick, continued that tradition learning to build fast catboats under C.C. Hanley in Monument Beach. His customers included US President FDR.
Traditional catboats are derived from the work boats that served the thin waters of Cape Cod, Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard and Buzzards Bay. These fishing boats turned racing machines were perfected by builders like Hanley. These overcanvassed sailboats -created for summer enjoyment and speed- make for some unforgettable rides. Their huge cockpits can comfortably carry a dozen people – something typically seen on a sailboat 2 or 3 times this size.
Catboat EVENTIDE at the Lewis Bay Boathouse Spring 2020.
This bit of history might help you understand why we are keenly interested in EVENTIDE, a wonderful and big Shiverick-built catboat. For many years, EVENTIDE served up great sunset sailing trips out of Hyannis Harbor into Lewis Bay. The first steps are now underway to stabilize and protect her from the weather. In the coming months, we will determine a path to rebuild and relaunch her career on Lewis Bay.
Catboats like EVENTIDE are a reminder of another time. She also has the potential to serve the future as a hands-on classroom for Cape Cod’s maritime traditions. We are seeking advise, support, and partnership with a like-minded maritime organizations and individuals to keep this piece of history alive.
Update December 2020:
Eventide’s engine and interior have been removed. A team from Karl’s Boat Shop comes to move her to a more protected position. They also re-block her – this time in 6 places – and build a new support for her new tarp!
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- Building tarp support
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- Protected corner
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- Mast moving to indoor storage
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- Trailer after move
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- Famous catboat sail
Update September 2022:
After multiple surveyor visits and discussions with wooden boat experts from Maine to Pleasant Bay to Newport, we may have identified a gifted shipwright with Cape Cod and catboat roots.
All donations designated EVENTIDE will be used 100% for her expenses. We are an all-volunteer org with minimal overhead. So your donation (no matter the size) will have an impact! Thank you.
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