Events

Annapolis slated to become the home of the National Sailing Hall of Fame

Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. announced in December 2005 a formal agreement to establish the National Sailing Hall of Fame in Annapolis. Governor Ehrlich joined Annapolis Mayor Ellen Moyer; National Sailing Hall of Fame & Museum, Inc., President Buck Buchanan; U.S. Sailing President Janet Baxter; America’s Cup champion and television broadcaster Gary Jobson, and other sailing dignitaries to sign a memorandum of understanding that formalized an agreement to establish the museum in Maryland’s capital city.

“Today we add a new jewel in the crown for the State of Maryland and the United States,” said Governor Ehrlich. “The National Sailing Hall of Fame rightfully belongs here in Annapolis, Maryland – America’s Sailing Capital – for Marylanders and tourists to enjoy.”

“The National Sailing Hall of Fame will preserve the history of the sport of sailing and its impact on our culture by honoring those who have made outstanding contributions to the sport,” added Baxter. “This will be the home of America’s sailing history.”

In 2004, the National Sailing Hall of Fame & Museum, Inc., was founded with the goal of establishing and fundraising for a National Sailing Hall of Fame that will promote U.S. sailing achievements and educate the public about the sport.

“Baseball, basketball, football, tennis, golf and lacrosse all have national halls of fame,” said NSHOF President Buchanan. “The sport of sailing will have a similar place that will focus public attention on our sailing accomplishments, inspire junior sailing development, and provide an international landmark for sailing enthusiasts.”

In the coming months, NSHOF officials will work with the State of Maryland and the City of Annapolis to establish a permanent lease to acquire the necessary property in Annapolis. The NSHOF will be a multi-site museum with the Natural Resources Police building at Annapolis’ City Dock as the main site for the new museum.

Governor Ehrlich has directed the Maryland Department of Natural Resources to work with NSHOF officials to accommodate the permanent establishment of the Hall. Preliminary negotiations have begun to co-locate the NSHOF in the historic building that currently serves as a headquarters for Natural Resources Police.

Too bad all the emphasis is on racing! This is something that is long overdue and we applaud the efforts of the organizing committee led by Gary Jobson. It's a great idea, but... is this a "sailing" hall of fame or a "racing" hall of fame? If you read the description of the goals, it is definitely not a "sailing" hall of fame or they would have included recognition of famous cruisers in the vein of Joshua Slocum, and adventurers, like Richard E. Byrd. Given that there are many more cruisers than racers, and given that the sport needs a major re-envigoration, wouldn't it make sense to highlight a broader range of achievements so young people can imagine themselves in lots of different roles, some of which are far more accomplished and productive than going around in circles the fastest? We know the racers get all the glory, but here is the first real opportunity to reward all kinds of sailors - designers and builders included - who have made major contributions to the sport in ways other than racing. Anyway, we urge the Board of Directors to reconsider and add a few categories outside racing for recognition.