The Pirates
Artist
Frederic S. Hynd
(1905 - 1965)
Date1925-1965
MediumWatercolor on paper
Dimensions22 1/2 x 30 7/8 in. (57.2 x 78.4 cm)
ClassificationsWatercolor
Credit LineCharles F. Smith Fund
Terms
Object number1949.22
Description“The Pirates” is set in Wiscasset, Maine, which used to be a major seaport terminal and hub of the railways of Wiscasset, Waterville and Farmington, Maine. These railways ran continuously from 1895 until 1933 when a derailment closed all three lines permanently.Until the late 1990s, two ship hulks – the four-masted cargo schooners “Hesper” and “Luther Little” – beached near the U.S. 1 bridge were a major tourist attraction. The entrepreneur Frank W. Winter of Auburn, Maine, bought both ships at an auction for $600 in 1932 with the intention of restoring them, and the two vessels were brought to Wiscasset. Soon after the purchase Winter passed away and the ships were abandoned. Over the next 66 years, the weathered crafts became one of the most photographed subjects in Maine. Unfortunately, in 1998 a severe storm destroyed the final masts and the town decided to remove the rotting remains from the Sheepscot River.
At first glance, the nostalgic painting reveals only the two ships stranded on a beach. However, upon closer inspection, the viewer can discern the figures of several children next to and on the ships, playing pirates.
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Not on view
