Mattapoisett in Plymouth County, Massachusetts — The American Northeast (New England)
Commemorating Mattapoisett's Shipbuilders
Photographed By James R. Murray, July 17, 2015
1. Commemorating Mattapoisett's Shipbuilders Marker
Text on the marker's plaque
From the year 1752 to 1876, at least six shipyards flourished along this waterfront from the foot of Pearl Street to Ship Street (Cannonville). The fine harbor, an abundant supply of virgin timber and a ready market for whaling and maritime commerce attracted the finest of shipbuilders. Barks, brigs, schooners, sloops, and merchant ships were built and launched here. When the whaling industry was at its height in New Bedford, Mattapoisett became world famous for its whaleships. More than 350 vessels went down the ways during this period. Among the most famous were:
“Acushnet” ship 1840 which carried as a crew member Herman Melville on her maiden voyage. Ten years later he wrote the famous whaling saga “Moby Dick”
“Platina “ship 1847 distinguished for capturing a white whale
“Wanderee” Bark 1876 Last whaleship to be built in Mattapoisett Yards, and one of the last whalers to sail from New Bedford.
Text inscribed on the Boulder, above the plaque
Erected 1976 by Mattapoisett Bicentennial Committee.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Waterways & Vessels. A significant historical year for this entry is 1752.
Location.
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 6 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Mattapoisett Wharves (within shouting distance of this marker); Ned's Point Light (approx. one mile away); William Bradford (approx. 5.1 miles away); Fort Phoenix (approx. 5.2 miles away); a different marker also named Fort Phoenix (approx. 5.2 miles away); Donald R. Bernard (approx. 5.2 miles away); Major Israel Fearing (approx. 5.2 miles away); Revolutionary War Cannon (approx. 5.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Mattapoisett.
Photographed By Dale K. Benington, July 30, 2015
2. Commemorating Mattapoisett's Shipbuilders Marker
Close-up view of the inscription written across the top of the boulder, above the plaque. It states, "Ship Yard Park."
Photographed By James R. Murray, July 17, 2015
3. Commemorating Mattapoisett's Shipbuilders Marker
Long view of marker, located in Ship Yard Park and the Town Wharf in Mattapoisett Massachusetts.
Photographed By Dale K. Benington, July 30, 2015
4. Commemorating Mattapoisett's Shipbuilders Marker
View of the marker looking east along Water Street.
Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on July 17, 2015, by James R. Murray of Elkton, Florida. This page has been viewed 299 times since then and 9 times this year. Photos: 1. submitted on July 17, 2015, by James R. Murray of Elkton, Florida. 2. submitted on September 6, 2015, by Dale K. Benington of Toledo, Ohio. 3. submitted on July 17, 2015, by James R. Murray of Elkton, Florida. 4. submitted on September 6, 2015, by Dale K. Benington of Toledo, Ohio. • Bill Pfingsten was the editor who published this page.
