The official unveiling of an information board commemorating the historic sailing in 1633 of the Ark and the Dove, carrying the first settlers to Maryland, took place on Cowes Parade yesterday (Thursday).
The idea of a board was inspired by a trustee of the Cowes Heritage and Community Group, George Chastney, with enthusiastic support from former Cowes town mayor Geoff Banks, BEM.
The project was financed by Cowes Town Council.
With the help of copies of paintings provided by a Maryland museum and the resolving of any copywrite issues, the board tells the story of the often hazardous 222-day voyage endured by the 300 or so people aboard the ships.
The board also displays a QR code provided by Wight for Sight, through which an audio commentary and images are available.
The board was laid-out by graphic designer Steve Collins.
It is finished in enamel, manufactured by Newport-based A J Wells and Sons, who also undertook its erection in conjunction with Island Roads
At the ceremony the board was blessed by the Father Jonathan Redvers Harris, of the local St Thomas of Canterbury Roman Catholic Church – underlining the fact that most of those on the two ships were fleeing religious persecution.
Other speakers were the Mayor of Cowes, Councillor John Nicholson, George Chastney and Geoff Banks.
Mr Banks referred to commemorative plaques about the voyage already displayed on The Parade, and a ceremony attended by Maryland and US embassy representatives on the 375th anniversary in 2008.
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