FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2026, 9 am – 1:30 pm.
Coastal communities continuously navigate the rhythmic, cyclical, and sometimes turbulent nature of the industries that shape them. Examining the ebb of traditional livelihoods alongside the flow of new opportunities in the blue economy allows for a deeper understanding of the impact of marine labors. Featuring a dynamic exploration of maritime stories past and present, the symposium seeks to explore the diverse experiences of the people who have shaped maritime industries and sustained coastal communities in Maine and beyond.
Established in 1973, the symposium serves as an opportunity to connect, explore, and investigate the evolving field of maritime scholarship. This year’s program is made possible through the generous support of John Zittel.
CLICK HERE to register and learn more about speakers and presentations.
Schedule
Check-in & Complimentary coffee
Welcome and Opening Remarks
|10:00–10:45 am|
Jason Mancini and Silvermoon Mars LaRose, “Adventures of a Wanderer: The Life and Lessons of Charles Lansing and The Narragansett Chief”
|10:45 am–11:30 am|
Nathan Lipfert, “Tools of Change in Wooden Shipyards”
|11:30 am–12:00 pm|
Break - Refreshments provided
|12:00 pm–12:45 pm|
Monique Coombs, "Rural Coastal Gentrification, Social Media, and the Working Waterfront"
|12:45 pm–1:30 pm|
W. H. Bunting, “The Maritime Careers and Connections of Twenty-Three Children and Grandchildren of Ebenezer and Charity Peirce of Farmingdale, Maine”
|Book signing and more ... |
Join us after the program for a book signing with W. H. Bunting and get your copy of his latest book, Captain Drew's World: Dispatches from the Age of Global Sail. Plus, peruse museum exhibits and our annual Book Sale—unique, rare, and one-of-a-kind books donated to the museum.
