An Old Schooner

This schooner is named the San Francesco, after the patron saint of sailors. It was built in Italy in 1870...1870!!!! That makes the ship 145 years old.

It has quite a history. Originally used to transport marble to cities in Europe, it fell out of favor when steamships took over. It was then used to move contraband goods, including elephant tusks and art. After being captured by British officials, for decades the boat was left out in the elements.

A local man is going to try to restore the boat. He thinks it will take years (2), and millions (2) of dollars. It will need to be completely stripped, and restored with new wood. I think I read that they are going to use cypress.

I told myself I wasn't going to do it, but I couldn't help myself. I approached the guy who was on the boat.

"AARRGGHH you the captain?" "Yes, I am."
"AARRGGHH you doing the restoring, too?" "Yes, I am."
"AARRGGHH you also the owner?" "Yes and no. I have some investors, and I'm looking for more."
"AARRGGHH you going to do the restoring right here?" "No, we're going to move it to the other side of the bridge."
"AARRGGHH you eventually going after some booty?" " Now I think you're getting a little too personal. AARRGGHH you finished?"

Yes...yes I am. I knew it was time to go when my timbers started to shiver.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/124969130@N06/sets/72157650388210797/ Click above to see more of the schooner, and a few birds.

TRUTH ALERT! The captain wasn't on board. I learned all those "facts" from the internet. ;0)