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Fame, 1812 Privateer Replica, Launched in Massachusetts

The 62-foot schooner Fame, a replica of a War of 1812 privateer that will be based in Salem was launched Saturday, June 14. Fame slid down the ways shortly before the high tide at 11:48 AM. The Essex Shipbuilding Museum was be the best spot to watch the launch, and the
Museum was selling hot dogs and beer.

Fame is a replica of a successful Salem privateer schooner from the War of 1812. The original Fame was one of the first American privateers to put to sea during the War of 1812 and one of the first to bring back a prize. She captured at least 19 vessels before being lost in the Bay of Fundy in 1814.

Once FAME receives her Coast Guard certification, she will carry passengers on two-hour cruises of Salem Sound from Salem’s Pickering Wharf Marina. During July and August cruises will depart at 10:00 AM, 12:30 p.m., 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. for a daily sunset cruise.

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Fame will be hosting a weeklong day camp this summer for children ages 8-12 from July 14-18. This session is limited to 24 campers. No previous sailing experience is required. Campers will spend five mornings aboard Fame, learning how to sail a traditional wooden vessel and experiencing what life was like for the fisherman, traders, and privateers who built the “North Shore of Boston.” The cost is $195 per camper.

For more information about the camp, please visit www.SchoonerFame.com, call them at (978) 729-7600, or e-mail them at SchoonerFame@aol.com.

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