Ruppersberger Welcomes Replica of the John Smith Shallop to Havre de Grace

(Washington, D.C.)- Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD) welcomed a replica of the John Smith shallop to Havre de Grace on Sunday, July 22, 2007.  The Congressman joined the crew of the shallop and local elected officials in celebration of the 400th anniversary of Captain John Smith’s exploration of the Chesapeake Bay.  The replica of the shallop was built at a shipyard on Maryland’s Eastern Shore using period material and techniques. 

In May, the shallop set sail on a 121-day expedition to retrace the Captain’s trip to highlight the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail, the nation’s first historic waterway trail.  The trail charts Captain Smith’s route through “smart buoys” that act as interactive guide posts giving travelers access to historical and geographical data through cell phones or on the Internet.  To follow the voyage, go to www.johnsmith400.org. 

“The Chesapeake Bay is one of Maryland’s most cherished treasures.  Four hundred years ago, Captain John Smith and his crew set out on a journey of exploration and discovery in the bay.  Modern day explorers are reliving that adventure drawing attention to the beauty and history of the Chesapeake Bay and the need to preserve it.  In Congress, I am committed to protecting the bay for future generations to enjoy,” said Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD).       

Congressman Ruppersberger secured $1.65 million in federal funding to enhance the Chesapeake Bay Gateway Network in the 2008 Interior and Environment Appropriations bill.  The money will pay for museums and facilities around the Chesapeake Bay to create exhibits about the ecosystem and history of the Bay including the John Smith Trail.  The legislation passed the House of Representatives on June 27, 2007.  It must pass the Senate and be signed by the President to become law.

 

 

 

 

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