Sea Captains of Cape Cod

Instructor: Michael Pregot

Time: Tuesdays from 4-6 p.m.

Location: Wellfleet Library

Dates: October 17, 24, 31, Nov. 14, 21 (no class on Nov. 7).

This course will explore the connection that each Cape Cod town has to the sea as demonstrated through its seafaring residents. It provides a glimpse into heroic maritime adventures, entrepreneurial brilliance, and an appreciation of the resolve needed by sea captains to thrive within a hostile seaside environment.

Maritime figures take several forms such as distinguished fishermen, military war heroes, deep-sea merchants, local coasters, packet boat captains, whalers, ship architects, luxury passenger liner magnets, and even “moon-cursers” prowling along the coastline for treasure.

A definite emphasis is placed on the role of the indigenous people, black sea captains, the female perspective of living aboard a ship, and the social status awarded to the various ethnic groups brave enough to face the perils of deep-sea travel.

Our study will delve into each of the 15 Cape Cod town’s relative engagement to the sea and the commerce of the period in the 1700’s and 1800’s. In reviewing the data, we will discover that every town assuredly has a substantive connection to the sea and deserves to be given credit for its personal maritime history. The names and exploits of many famous captains as well as some lesser-known sea-faring figures will be revealed.

There will also be an opportunity for group interaction as students can suggest some subtopics of personal interest and even be encouraged to present some research findings of their own on a voluntary basis. The instructional format will include readings, discussions, group projects and critical analysis.