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With 36 miles of coastline, the sea always has played a significant role in the history of Greenwich. Since the town's founding in 1640, boats plying Long Island Sound were a regular and reliable means of commercial trade and passenger transport. Yet, by June 1896, signaling the end of an era, the last market sloop sailed from the Lower Landing in Cos Cob to New York. During time, as boating became more affordable, Greenwich once again witnessed a proliferation of boats of every size and description, as well as the establishment of many organizations dedicated to boating.
Enthusiastically endorsing the new show, Exhibition Committee Chairman Jessica Guff noted: "We wanted to honor the unique relationship of Greenwich to both the Long Island Sound and our many local rivers and waterways. Recreation and commerce on the water transcend social and economic distinctions. Our waters are open to everyone and unite us in enjoyment and appreciation."
The historical society plans a number of lectures and programs in connection with the show, including a talk by sailor, author and historian John Rousmaniere, a Story Barn program featuring personal stories with the theme "Any Port in a Storm," a lecture on Revolutionary War-era coastal charts and maps, and a cruise highlighting the historic features of Captain's Harbor. Visit www.greenwichhistory.org for information and program reservations.
Generously supported by a gift from TransAtlantic Lines, "Close to the Wind: Our Maritime History" opens March 30 and continues through Sept. 4. Hours are noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays at the Greenwich Historical Society Storehouse Gallery and Bush-Holley Historic Site, 39 Strickland Road, Cos Cob. Admission is $10 for adults; $8 for seniors and is always free to members and students, as well as the first Wednesday of each month.
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