Godspeed Landing Party Festival, Alexandria, VA
For five days between May 27 and June 3, 2006, I volunteered for the Godspeed Landing Party Festival in Alexandria, VA--part of the "80-day sail of the newly commissioned replica Godspeed, bringing a bit of American history to six major ports along the eastern seaboard." The Festival included live performances, hands-on activities and displays, costumed interpreters, and cultural exhibits. The Godspeed is a replica of one of the three ships that brought English colonists to Virginia in 1607. Alexandria was the first port of call, followed by landings in Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York, Boston, and ending in Newport in July 2006. After that, the ship returned to Jamestown, to replace the prior replica, which was then be retired. I was pleased to be part of this special event, enjoyed volunteering for it, and was highly flattered by the offer for full-time employment. Unfortunately, my commitment to homeschooling my children prevented me from accepting the offer to be paid to travel to various ports and help thousands of people enjoy this exploration of American history. However, my Festival experience gave me many fond memories that I cherish.
Entrance to the Festival
Native American dancers, one of the many performances for the whole family to enjoy.
A sailor demonstrates knot tying (it's physics!).
Kids of all ages tried their skill with hoops.
A sailor explains period navigation and tools.
The chocolatier was my favorite, because he let me taste the roasted cocoa beans. Yum!
Voyage to the New World is one of several display and interpretation tents. Visitors could ride a simulator that offers a mouse eye's view of the Godspeed. (Note: the ride is more " lively"" than one might expect. When the docent said, " Don't have an oopsy on my holystone deck," he was speaking to me.)
Another interpretive tent, " American People, American Progress. "
Three of my volunteer shifts were with the Food & Beverage detail, specifically, making sure the staff and volunteers were fed. It is amazing how many people like you when you are the gatekeeper at lunch!
I couldn't help taking pictures of the sailboats on the river--and wishing I was aboard.
The Godspeed at dock.
Visitors enjoyed tours of the ship.
The Godspeed's winch.
That fellow up in the rigging is over 6o years old, but he loves the job.
More of the crew, preparing to set sail for the Godspeed's next port.
The topsail.
I watched with delight as the Godspeed crew cast off, and the special ship came alive under the spread of sail.
The ship heading down the Potomac river was a beautiful sight.
Approaching the Wilson Bridge on the Virginia beltway.
Farewell, Godspeed!
Back to
Shay's Personal Experience Articles
