Day
1 Judy Parker's 7th Grade Dighton Middle School
class program aboard the Ernestina was part
of a two day out-of-the-classroom study
experience. While half of the 7th
grade class sailed, the other half enjoyed
the land based component; touring the
Whaling Museum, Waste Water Treatment Facility
and the Hurricane Barrier.
Our crew provided them with an introduction to
basic Navigation and a look into the use of
Simple Machines aboard our vessel (block and
tackle, windlass, levers and wheels). They
gained a first hand understanding of how these
elements, intrinsic to the operation of a
traditional sailing vessel, find their use even
in the twenty first century and are indeed the
basis of our present day technology. The
history station gave them insight into the many
uses of the Ernestina over the years and life
aboard during these times....a good comparison as
they explore the Whaling life and industry at New
Bedford's historic museum.
Our course for the day took us out the harbor
and onto Buzzards Bay. The students
were able to test the water quality and
examine the plankton samples to consider the
beneficial effects the new waste water
treatment facility has had on our local
environment and the importance the Hurricane
Barrier on protecting out local marine
interests. All in all it was a busy day,
but not without time to reflect and take it all
in during quiet time after lunch or while
standing a turn at the helm of this grand
schooner.
Captain: Willi Bank
Program Coordinator: Inette Rex
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