Tag: san diego bay

Amazing art in San Diego: Classic paintings of ships!

Illuminating the Sea: The Marine Paintings of James E. Buttersworth, 1817-1894. This very special exhibit can be seen at the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
Illuminating the Sea: The Marine Paintings of James E. Buttersworth, 1817-1894. This very special exhibit can be seen at the Maritime Museum of San Diego!

Do you love breathtaking works of fine art? Are you fascinated by 19th century history? Do you like to feast your eyes on beautiful tall ships, sailing yachts and ocean scenery? There’s a special exhibit in San Diego that you positively must see!

I was surprised to discover that the Maritime Museum of San Diego, located downtown on the Embarcadero, is featuring a fantastic exhibit of marine art masterpieces by the famous painter James Edward Buttersworth. Buttersworth is considered to be one of the most important painters of the nineteenth century. His portraits of tall ships, racing yachts, steamships and other vessels from that era are beautiful works of genius, resplendent with light, energy and grace. About 600 of his classic paintings exist today, and the Maritime Museum has 24 amazing examples on display!

The exhibition is titled “Illuminating the Sea: The Marine Paintings of James E. Buttersworth, 1817-1894.”  The collected paintings, on loan from Mystic Seaport until May 31, 2016, are so dynamic, detailed and glowing with beauty, they’ll make a permanent impression in your mind. His images of sky and sea are realistic and alive. Colors are rich and subtle; stormy waters seem to spray off a painted canvas; white sails shine. Several paintings depict yachts racing together, engaged in historic competitions that include the America’s Cup, an event that became important in San Diego’s more recent past.

Another interesting aspect of the exhibition is the inclusion of a modern Buttersworth forgery by Ken Perenyi. Visitors to the museum can become a detective, and do their best to uncover the cleverly made fake!

Go enjoy this exhibit of rare, fantastic paintings, then prepare to spend a good hour or two exploring the many historic ships owned by the Maritime Museum of San Diego. You’ll find yourself within a magical world. A world that gently floats upon shining water, alive with history, adventure, beauty and wonder!

Among the classic maritime paintings of world-famous artist James E. Butterworth is a forgery. Visitors to the museum are challenged to spot it!
Among the classic maritime paintings of world-famous artist James E. Butterworth is a forgery. Visitors to the museum are challenged to spot it!
Truly stunning works of art on display inside the steam ferryboat USS Berkeley, hub of the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
Truly stunning works of art on display inside the steam ferryboat Berkeley, hub of the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
Illuminating the Sea, James E. Butterworth, oil on canvas. Magic, schooner of New York Yacht Club, winner of the America's Cup in 1870. Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons.
Illuminating the Sea, James E. Butterworth, oil on canvas. Magic, schooner of New York Yacht Club, winner of the America’s Cup in 1870. Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons.
In addition to this world-class art, the Maritime Museum of San Diego contains a vast collection of nautical objects. It is a must-see destination for those interested in our city's rich history.
In addition to this world-class art, the Maritime Museum of San Diego contains a vast collection of nautical objects. It is a must-see destination for those interested in our city’s rich history.

Here are a couple bonus photographs!  I took them this morning during a short walk before heading to work!

Museum volunteers gather around a ship's yard, which would soon be lifted by crane onto the nearly-completed Spanish galleon replica San Salvador.
Museum volunteers gather around a ship’s yard.  It would soon be lifted by crane onto the nearly-completed Spanish galleon replica San Salvador.
Tall ships San Salvador and Californian docked behind the USS Berkeley. Just a few of the fascinating ships you can visit at the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
Tall ships San Salvador and Californian docked behind the Berkeley. Just a few of the fascinating ships you can visit at the Maritime Museum of San Diego.

…

Join me for more cool stuff on Facebook and Twitter!

Do you like to read original, thought-provoking fiction? Please visit Short Stories by Richard.

Golden memories: A tribute to Anthony’s Fishette.

People walk along narrow outdoor deck of Anthony's Fishette, a popular casual dining spot for half a century in downtown San Diego.
People walk along narrow outdoor deck of Anthony’s Fishette, a popular casual dining spot for half a century in downtown San Diego.

Their 50 year lease is almost up. Anthony’s Fish Grotto on San Diego’s Embarcadero will soon be no more. They are to be replaced in 2017 by the Brigantine seafood restaurant. A golden era that produced many wonderful, irreplaceable memories is coming to a close.

I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve lingered in ecstasy at Anthony’s outdoor Fishette, which is adjacent to the more formal indoor restaurant. Except when I was a child, I’ve never eaten in the restaurant. But outside, on the deck, inhaling the ocean breeze, listening to the cries of circling seagulls, squinting into the sun and feeling its warmth on my face–I’ve devoured acres of tasty french fries and oceans of fish.

Millions of people around the planet have golden memories of the place. This is my small photographic tribute to Anthony’s outdoor Fishette. I stopped by for a delicious grilled tuna melt sandwich late yesterday afternoon.

Over the years, many of the people who have worked at Anthony’s Fishette gave me a friendly smile or hello. To them, I say thank you.

You have until January 31, 2017 to enjoy this true San Diego tradition and treasure, and to say thank you.

Front of Anthony's Fish Grotto as seen from Harbor Drive. In early 2017, this iconic San Diego restaurant will be demolished.
Front of Anthony’s Fish Grotto as seen from Harbor Drive. In early 2017, this iconic San Diego restaurant will be demolished.
Smiles are typical at Anthony's Fishette. So is sunny outdoor pleasure and yummy seafood.
Smiles are typical at Anthony’s Fishette. So is sunny outdoor pleasure and yummy seafood.
A photo through glass of the small boat dock and blue San Diego Bay as a glowing sunset nears.
A photo through glass of the small boat dock and blue San Diego Bay as a glowing sunset nears.
A reflection in window of Anthony's Fish Grotto of the setting sun. A golden era is coming to a close on San Diego's waterfront.
A reflection in window of Anthony’s Fish Grotto of the setting sun. A golden era is coming to a close on San Diego’s waterfront.
Possibly the best outdoor seating in all of San Diego. Just above the lapping water, with a sweeping, wonderful view.
Possibly the best outdoor seating in all of San Diego. Just above the lapping water, with a sweeping, wonderful view.
Passing by Anthony's Fishette one fine January day. I've walked past perhaps a thousand times.
Passing by Anthony’s Fishette one fine January day. I’ve walked past perhaps a thousand times.
Countless millions of fond memories have been made here.
Countless millions of fond memories have been made here.

…

Join me for more wonderful San Diego sights on Facebook and Twitter!

Do you like to read original, thought-provoking fiction? Please visit Short Stories by Richard.

Amazing public art is a hidden San Diego gem.

Sculpture of woman fish processor holding a large tuna. This area south of downtown was once the home of many San Diego canneries.
Sculpture of woman fish processor holding a large tuna. This area south of downtown was once the home of many San Diego canneries.

A month or two ago, during a leisurely walk from downtown to the pier at Cesar Chavez Park, I was thrilled to discover some truly amazing public artwork!

The Cannery Workers Tribute at Parque del Sol is tucked away in a place where very few people go. You’ll find it just a bit north of the Coronado Bay Bridge (which you can see in some of my photographs), near the entrance to Cesar Chavez Park.

The large gleaming sculpture honors thousands of hard-working people who were employed by San Diego’s tuna canneries decades ago. I’ve blogged about our city’s once-thriving tuna industry on several occasions. Not only was San Diego home to the world’s largest tuna fishing fleet during much of the 20th century, but numerous canneries dotted our bayside. In the 1950s, the tuna industry provided more than 17,000 local workers with a living. Many of the jobs involved cleaning and packing fish that would be shipped around the world.

According to the Port of San Diego website, this public artwork is situated in a spot where workers at a nearby cannery would take their break. “During the 1970s, former cannery maintenance worker Roberto Carrero and co-workers dug a hole and planted a small tree. This, now large, coral tree was incorporated into the artwork.”

Four bronze plaques mounted on bits of old machinery recall the history of this area and the once-thriving tuna industry. Click the plaque photos to read them.

The Cannery Workers Tribute sculpture was created in 2009 by Valerie Salatino and Nancy Moran, with assistance from Sheila Moran. It is indeed a very cool sight!

Coral tree planted by a cannery maintenance person decades ago is a feature of the Cannery Workers Tribute at Parque del Sol.
Coral tree planted by a cannery maintenance man decades ago is an important feature of the Cannery Workers Tribute at Parque del Sol.
A high arch of gleaming fish seems to rise above the nearby Coronado Bay Bridge. This public art is located in Barrio Logan, near the entrance to Cesar Chavez Park.
A high arch of gleaming fish seems to rise above the nearby Coronado Bay Bridge. This public art is located in Barrio Logan, near the entrance to Cesar Chavez Park.
Few people pass this way. This public art is definitely a hidden San Diego gem.
Few people pass this way. This public art is definitely a hidden San Diego gem.
A large catch of ocean tuna seems to burst from a basket!
A large catch of ocean tuna seems to burst from a basket!
The advent of the cannery industry in the early 1900s. For most of the 20th century, San Diego was the tuna fishing capital of the world.
The advent of the cannery industry in the early 1900s. For most of the 20th century, San Diego was the tuna fishing capital of the world.
The people included Italian, Japanese, Mexican and Portuguese fishermen, and many cannery workers. Fishing boats have no schedule. When the cannery bell rang, it was time to go to work.
The people included Italian, Japanese, Mexican and Portuguese fishermen, and many cannery workers. Fishing boats have no schedule. When the cannery bell rang, it was time to go to work.
The process was smelly and messy! For tuna to go into a sandwich or salad bowl, it often traveled up to 7000 miles!
The process was smelly and messy! For tuna to go into a sandwich or salad bowl, it often traveled up to 7000 miles!
The end of the San Diego tuna fishing era came in the 1980s, due to foreign competition, high expenses and other factors.
The end of the San Diego tuna fishing era came in the 1980s, due to foreign competition, high expenses and other factors.
Another photograph that you might enjoy.
Another photograph that you might enjoy.
An arch of abundant fish above tuna cannery workers. Public artwork that honors an important chapter in San Diego's history.
An arch of abundant fish above tuna cannery workers. Public artwork that honors an important chapter in San Diego’s history.

UPDATE!

I took additional photos on a later walk past the park…

IMG_3100z

IMG_3102z

IMG_3107z

IMG_3189z

IMG_3190z

IMG_3217z

IMG_3219z

IMG_3220z

IMG_3226z

…

Join me for more cool San Diego discoveries on Facebook and Twitter!

Do you like to read original, thought-provoking fiction? Visit my Short Stories by Richard writing blog!

Pirate sneaks onto tall ship, begins cannon battle.

A smiling, innocent-looking pirate just walks along. People suspect nothing.
A smiling, innocent-looking pirate just walks along. People suspect nothing.

Did I actually see what I thought I saw?

Two tall ships were scheduled to have a mock cannon battle today on San Diego Bay. The reenactment was to be between the Maritime Museum of San Diego’s replica Revenue Cutter Californian (the official tall ship of the State of California) and the Lady Washington, a tall ship visiting from the Grays Harbor Historical Seaport Authority.

What happened?

Pirates!

Two very rascally pirates!

Read the photo captions and tell me where I am wrong!

Visitors to the Maritime Museum of San Diego have boarded the tall ship Californian, to engage in a mock cannon battle with visiting tall ship Lady Washington.
Visitors to the Maritime Museum of San Diego have boarded the tall ship Californian, to engage in a mock cannon battle with visiting tall ship Lady Washington.
In case you want to learn a bit more about Californian's sails and rigging, click this photo. Unfortunately, pirates know all about this stuff.
In case you want to learn a bit more about Californian’s sails and rigging, click this photo. Unfortunately, pirates know all about this stuff.
Notorious Captain Swordfish, that pirate who makes Blackbeard look perfectly civilized, comes striding along. He must have an evil scheme in mind.
Notorious Captain Swordfish, that pirate who makes Blackbeard look perfectly civilized, comes striding along. He must have another evil scheme in mind.
Captain Swordfish makes a scene, distracting those who are boarding the Lady Washington. Nobody notices what that first innocent-looking pirate is up to.
Captain Swordfish makes a crazy scene, distracting those who are boarding the Lady Washington. Nobody notices what that first innocent-looking pirate is up to.
That first pirate has taken control of Californian! It's heading out into San Diego Bay while a museum employee's back is turned!
That first pirate has taken control of Californian! It’s heading out into San Diego Bay while a museum employee’s back is turned!
Turn around! Turn around! That rascal is stealing your ship!
Turn around! Turn around! That rascal is stealing your ship!
The Californian comes about and launches an attack on the Maritime Museum! The insolence! Deadly cannons thunder and echo throughout downtown San Diego!
The Californian comes about and launches an attack on the Maritime Museum! The insolence! Deadly cannons thunder and echo throughout downtown San Diego!
Oh, dear! Oh, dear!
Oh, dear! Oh, dear!
The Maritime Museum employee quickly loads one of the land battery cannons, and gets ready to fire! That pirate won't get away so easily!
The Maritime Museum employee quickly loads one of the land battery cannons, and gets ready to fire! That pirate won’t get away so easily!
An epic battle begins!
An epic battle begins!

…

Join me for more fun stuff on Facebook and Twitter!

Do you like to read original, thought-provoking fiction? Visit my Short Stories by Richard writing blog!

World-famous ship Star of India needs YOUR help!

Decks don't last forever. Our Star's decks have reached the end of their lifetime and now Star of India is in need of YOUR help.
Decks don’t last forever. Our Star’s decks have reached the end of their lifetime and now Star of India is in need of YOUR help.

The Star of India is one of the most famous and important historic ships afloat. Built in 1863, she’s the oldest active sailing vessel in the world and the oldest iron-hulled merchant ship still on the water. She has sailed twenty-one times around the world, surviving the tempests of Cape Horn. She has been caught in a devastating cyclone, trapped in Alaskan ice, and even went aground in Hawaii. She still plies the Pacific Ocean with a volunteer crew. And her hull, cabins and equipment are almost completely original.

So it isn’t surprising the deck needs a bit of help.

The Star of India needs YOUR help!

Why should you help? Read this amazing message from the Maritime Museum of San Diego’s website:

“…Our museum is working as part of an international effort to see Star of India inscribed, along with other great historic ships, by UNESCO as a multi-national world heritage site. Like the Parthenon, the Pyramids, and the Great Wall of China, such a distinction would…see that she lives forever.”

Wow!

Right now, the main deck and poop deck need replacing. The wooden decks have come to the end of their lifetime. The Star of India “was recently awarded a $192,000 National Parks Service Maritime Heritage Grant, one of very few such awards and a testimony to both her historical significance and to the viability of the project for extending her life. However, these funds are available to Star of India only if they are matched by an equal amount contributed by those who love her and want to see her sail for generations to come.”

With YOUR contribution, you can become part of an eternal legacy and help to preserve an important part of world (and San Diego) history. That’s big, very important stuff!

Please visit this webpage to learn how YOU can help!

Looking along the length of the main deck of Star of India. Deck replacement is needed and so is the generous help of the public.
Looking along the length of the main deck of Star of India. Deck replacement is needed and so is the generous help of the public.
Parts of the wooden deck are in pretty bad shape. Time, shoes, salt, sun and rain have taken their toll.
Parts of the wooden deck are in pretty bad shape. Feet, salt, sun and rain have taken their toll.
The Star of India is a National Historic Landmark. The oldest active sailing ship in the world, it's a treasured part of San Diego and world history.
The Star of India is a National Historic Landmark. The oldest active sailing ship in the world, it’s a treasured part of San Diego and world history.
Visitors descend from the poop deck. Beautiful woodwork is found all about the ship. But the elements can be harsh.
Visitors descend from the poop deck. Beautiful woodwork is found all about the ship. But the elements can be harsh.
A very old photo of Star of India's launching day in 1863. Originally it was named Euterpe.
A very old photo of Star of India’s launching day in 1863. Originally it was named Euterpe.
Photo of Euterpe, later renamed Star of India, docked at Port Chalmers, Otago, New Zealand in 1883.
Photo of Euterpe, later renamed Star of India, docked at Port Chalmers, Otago, New Zealand in 1883.
Exquisite section of the stained glass skylight in the teak and oak paneled salon of the Star of India.
Exquisite section of the stained glass skylight in the teak and oak paneled saloon of the Star of India.
Peeking into Star of India's forward house, which contains ropes, tools and instruments which were necessary to maintain and operate the ship.
Peeking into Star of India’s forward house, which contains ropes, tools and instruments which were necessary to maintain and operate the tall ship.
I believe that long timber supported by the forward house and forecastle is the top section of the foremast, which is being refurbished. But I might be mistaken.
I believe that long timber supported by the forward house and forecastle is the top section of the foremast, which is being refurbished. But I might be mistaken.
The Star of India's steering wheel and binnacle on the poop deck.
The Star of India’s steering wheel and binnacle on the poop deck.
The Star of India needs your help! Donate today to help replace the deck, and to preserve this amazing ship for generations to come.
The Star of India needs YOUR help! Donate today to help replace the deck, and to preserve this amazing ship for generations to come.

…

Join me for more cool sights on Facebook and Twitter!

Are you a blogger? Do you want to make the world a better place? Please join Bloggers Lifting Others Generously.

Inflating balloons for the Holiday Bowl parade!

Getting a balloon ready for today's Holiday Bowl Big Bay Balloon Parade in San Diego!
Getting a balloon ready for today’s Holiday Bowl “Big Bay Balloon Parade” in San Diego!

The Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade kicks off this morning at 10 o’clock on Harbor Drive near the County Administration Building!

At this very moment, folks are busily inflating the many fun balloons that will be parading down the Embarcadero to the delight of thousands of onlookers.

I can’t make it to the Big Bay Balloon Parade this year because I have to work. But I did get some cool photos that you all might enjoy!

People were out early this morning filling balloons with helium in the parking lot north of the County Administration Center.
People were out early this morning filling balloons with helium in the parking lot north of the County Administration Center.
A truck hauling helium, and numerous big balloon wait ready to be filled.
A truck hauling helium.  Numerous big balloons await, ready to be filled.
This fun-looking one is inflating!
This fun-looking one is inflating!
Looks to me like Humpty Dumpty. With all that gas inside, I think he'll bounce should he fall.
Looks to me like Humpty Dumpty. With all that gas inside, I think he’ll bounce should he fall.
A balloon has been wheeled on a platform across the parking lot, waiting its turn to be inflated.
A balloon has been wheeled on a platform across the parking lot, waiting its turn to be inflated.
Meanwhile, on Pacific Highway next to the County Administration Building, marching bands have begun to arrive for the parade! Highland High School came from Ewing, Missouri!
Meanwhile, on Pacific Highway next to the County Administration Building, marching bands have begun to arrive for the parade! Highland High School came all the way from Ewing, Missouri!
Band members get off the bus with instruments.
Band members get off the bus with instruments.
The balloon-filling had just begun when I walked by. Then I had to rush home to share my pics!
The balloon-filling had just begun when I walked by. Then I had to rush home to share my pics!
It's a happy gingerbread man rising in the blue San Diego sky!
It’s a happy Gingerbread Man rising in the blue San Diego sky!

…

Join me for more cool sights on Facebook and Twitter!

Do you like to read original, thought-provoking fiction? Visit my Short Stories by Richard writing blog!

Clouds like a dream, above tall ships and palm trees.

Tall ships under beautifully streaked clouds on a late December day in San Diego.
Like delicate magic . . . beautifully streaked clouds on a late December day.

Did you see the fantastic clouds above San Diego’s Embarcadero today? They seemed to be made out of fragile, swirling dreams. They magically appeared in our blue sky, painted above tall ships and palm trees.

Just in case you didn’t see, here are two cool pics!

Amazing clouds above San Diego's Embarcadero.
Fantastic clouds above tall ships and palm trees on San Diego’s Embarcadero.

…

Join me for more cool sights on Facebook and Twitter!

Do you like to read inspirational, thought-provoking fiction? Visit my Short Stories by Richard writing blog!

Photos aboard Master and Commander’s HMS Surprise.

Elegant stern of HMS Surprise, one of many fascinating ships owned by the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
Elegant stern of HMS Surprise, one of many fascinating ships owned by the Maritime Museum of San Diego.

It’s Christmas. I wasn’t planning to blog today. But this afternoon I became a new member of the Maritime Museum of San Diego! (Having lived for 15 years just a short walk from the museum, it’s about time!)

Naturally, I couldn’t wait to visit several of the amazing ships.  The Maritime Museum of San Diego has one of the finest and largest collections of historical ships in the world!

If you’ve ever watched the movie Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World, then you’ll probably recognize the HMS Surprise. The beautiful tall ship, upon which many scenes were filmed, is in the museum’s collection. And I took a bunch of photos today!

Becoming a member of the Maritime Museum of San Diego is going to be awesome. Among other great perks, I can visit any of the ships free for an entire year. I can sit in the elegant enclosed passenger deck of the Steam Ferry Berkeley and read and write whenever I please! Right out on beautiful San Diego Bay! How cool is that?

I bet some of you might really enjoy membership, too!  I’m told they are looking for volunteers to help sail their new Spanish galleon replica San Salvador!

For more information, please visit the Maritime Museum of San Diego website.

HMS Surprise in some morning sunlight.
HMS Surprise in some morning sunlight.
The ship you are about to board was originally built as a replica of the British 24-gun frigate Rose of 1757. HMS Rose played a role in the American Revolution and was sunk in Savanna harbor in 1779.
The ship you are about to board was originally built as a replica of the British 24-gun frigate Rose of 1757. HMS Rose played a role in the American Revolution and was sunk in Savanna harbor in 1779.
Detailed model of the HMS Surprise, which is the only operating replica of an 18th century frigate in the world. The ship was used in the filming of Master and Commander starring Russell Crowe.
Detailed model of the HMS Surprise, which is the only operating replica of an 18th century frigate in the world. The ship was used in the filming of Master and Commander, starring Russell Crowe.
Visitor to the San Diego Maritime Museum pretends to steer the amazing tall ship, which is docked on the Embarcadero near the historic Star of India, in the background.
Visitor to the San Diego Maritime Museum pretends to steer the tall ship HMS Surprise, which is docked on the Embarcadero near the historic Star of India, in the background.
View of the ship's main deck and lower rigging from the quarterdeck. A portion of San Diego's skyline and the County Administration Building are visible.
View of the ship’s main deck and lower rigging from the quarterdeck. A portion of San Diego’s skyline and the County Administration Building are visible.
Cannon projects from hull of HMS Surprise, which is a replica of a 24-gun frigate of the Royal Navy, based on 18th century British Admiralty drawings.
Cannon projects from hull of HMS Surprise, which is a replica of a 24-gun frigate of the Royal Navy, based on 18th century British Admiralty drawings.
Looking upward at the three masts, furled sails and other complicated rigging.
Looking upward at the three masts, furled sails and other complicated rigging.
Photo through ropes of the nearby Star of India, the world's oldest active sailing ship, also part of the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
Photo through ropes of the nearby Star of India, the world’s oldest active sailing ship, also part of the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
The ship's bell. Originally named the HMS Rose, the ship was re-registered as HMS Surprise because of her role in the film Master and Commander.
The ship’s bell. Originally named the HMS Rose, the ship was re-registered as HMS Surprise because of her starring role in the film Master and Commander.
Below deck there are many fascinating exhibits, which show what life was like aboard a frigate. Other displays recall the filming of Master and Commander.
Below deck there are many fascinating exhibits, which show what life was like aboard a frigate. Other displays recall the filming of Master and Commander.
Pick the right kind of shot. The Surprise carried a variety of projectiles, each suited for different purposes.
Pick the right kind of shot. The Surprise carried a variety of projectiles, each suited for different purposes.
Artistic depiction of activity below deck during an engagement with the enemy. Operating the cannons was a complicated, dangerous duty.
Artistic depiction of activity below deck during an engagement with the enemy. Operating the cannons was a complicated, dangerous duty.
Feeling seasick? Visit the surgeon. Getting sick at sea was very serious not only for the ill sailor, but also for the entire crew.
Feeling seasick? Visit the surgeon. Getting sick at sea was very serious not only for the ill sailor, but also for the entire crew.
Exhibit in HMS Surprise recalls the ship's doctor in the movie Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World. Dr. Stephen Maturin was also scientist and naturalist.
Exhibit inside HMS Surprise recalls the ship’s doctor in the movie Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World. The fictional Dr. Stephen Maturin was also a scientist and naturalist.
Most of the crew slept below the gun deck in hammocks. Tightly-packed swinging hammocks figured memorably in the visuals of the movie Master and Commander.
Most of the crew slept below the gun deck in hammocks. Tightly-packed swinging hammocks figured memorably in the visuals of the movie Master and Commander.
Ship's Biscuit, also known as Hard Tack, was easy to make and preserve, and became part of the staple diet for British and Spanish mariners on their long voyages in the Pacific.
Ship’s Biscuit, also known as Hard Tack, was easy to make and preserve, and became part of the staple diet for British and Spanish mariners on their long voyages in the Pacific.
Chickens, geese and ducks were carried on board as live food. Officers enjoyed eggs. Fresh meat was reserved for the officers and those sick with scurvy.
Chickens, geese and ducks were carried on board as live food. Officers enjoyed eggs. Fresh meat was reserved for the officers and those sick with scurvy.
In this area near the stern there is a remote station for steering when the ship is propelled by its twin diesel engines. In 2007, HMS Surprise was restored to sailing condition.
A remote station used for steering the ship when she is propelled by her twin diesel engines. In 2007, HMS Surprise was restored to sailing condition.
One of several photos on display from the movie Master and Commander: Far Side of the World. Russell Crowe played the role of Captain Jack Aubrey.
One of several photos on display from the movie Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World. Famous actor Russell Crowe played the role of Captain Jack Aubrey.
Distinctive figurehead often seen in the popular movie. It now graces San Diego's waterfront.
Distinctive figurehead representing the Greek goddess Athena often seen in the popular movie. It now graces San Diego’s waterfront. UPDATE! I’ve been told it actually represents Boadicea, queen of the British Celtic Iceni tribe who led an uprising against the conquering forces of the Roman Empire.
Photograph of the HMS Surprise as evening approaches. One of many wonderful ships that visitors can board at the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
Photograph of the HMS Surprise as evening approaches. One of many wonderful ships that visitors can board at the Maritime Museum of San Diego.

UPDATE!

A new exhibit called Man-of-War opened on HMS Surprise in May, 2018. There are many new signs around the ship, and the captain’s great cabin is now open to the public. (I intend to blog about the great cabin separately.)

Here are additional photos. Read the captions for explanations about life aboard British fighting ships from that fascinating era.

A new exhibit called Man-of-War aboard the HMS Surprise features new signs describing life aboard an 18th century British frigate. Prepare for Battle!
A new exhibit called Man-of-War aboard the HMS Surprise features new signs describing life aboard an 18th century British frigate. Prepare for Battle!
HMS Surprise was originally the HMS Rose, built in Nova Scotia in 1970. It was purchased by Twentieth Century Fox to be used in the movie Master and Commander, starring Russell Crowe.
The ship was built as replica of the HMS Rose in 1970. It was purchased by Twentieth Century Fox to be used in the movie Master and Commander, starring Russell Crowe, and was subsequently renamed HMS Surprise.
Following maritime tradition, the ship has retained its original bell.
Following maritime tradition, the ship has retained its original bell.
Looking at the newly redecked quarterdeck of the HMS Surprise. The rest of the main deck will be restored as well.
Looking at the newly redecked quarterdeck of the HMS Surprise. The rest of the main deck will be restored as well.
An officer on the quarterdeck would issue commands to the sailor manning the wheel, which controlled the rudder at the ship's stern.
An officer on the quarterdeck would issue commands to the sailor manning the wheel, which controlled the rudder at the ship’s stern.
The Disney Wonder cruise ship is seen beyond the capstan. HMS Surprise was used in the filming of the movie Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.
The Disney Wonder cruise ship is seen docked in San Diego beyond the capstan. HMS Surprise was used in the filming of Disney’s movie Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.
Many hands turned the capstan to raise or lower the anchor.
Many hands turned the capstan to raise or lower the anchor.
Ordinary sailors relieved themselves at the ship's bow. Hence the name head.
Ordinary sailors relieved themselves at the ship’s bow. Hence the name head.
This was a sailor's bathroom!
This was a sailor’s bathroom!
A man-of-war could remain at sea for many months and travel more than 150 miles per day.
A man-of-war could remain at sea for many months and travel more than 150 miles per day.
On the gun deck of HMS Surprise, replica twenty-four-pound cannons have names like Spit Fire, Beelzebub and Bulldog. Larger than what a frigate would carry, these were used for dramatic effect in the movie.
On the gun deck of HMS Surprise, replica twenty-four-pound cannons have names like Spit Fire, Beelzebub and Bulldog. Larger than what a frigate would carry, these were used for dramatic effect in the movie.
A display demonstrates aspects of a warship's gun and its operation.
A display demonstrates aspects of a warship’s gun and its operation.
Diagram depicts how a six-man gun crew would load, aim and fire different types of shot.
Diagram depicts how a six-man gun crew would load, aim and fire different types of shot.
Sailors lived in their own specialized world, with familiar customs, rules, routines and expectations.
Sailors lived in their own specialized world, with familiar customs, rules, routines and expectations.
The complex often stressful operation of a man-of-war required strict discipline. Punishments included flogging and gagging.
The complex often stressful operation of a man-of-war required strict discipline. Punishments included flogging and gagging.
The English diet at sea was rather simple and predictable. Lots of biscuit, beer, pease, oatmeal and butter. Pork and cheese, too.
The English diet at sea was rather simple and predictable. Lots of biscuit, beer, pease, oatmeal and butter. Pork and cheese, too.
Cooking in the galley was done in calm weather. The Brodie Stove was designed for use on wooden ships where dangerous fire must be avoided at all costs.
Cooking in the galley was done in calm weather. The Brodie Stove was designed for use on crowded wooden ships where dangerous fire must be avoided at all costs.
A rat has found its way into the ship's food supply.
A rat has found its way into a ship’s food barrel.
The Royal Navy issued hard biscuits made of flour and water that were stored in sacks for months at a time. Weevils and maggots were a constant problem.
The Royal Navy issued hard biscuits made of flour and water that were stored in sacks for months at a time. Weevils and maggots were a constant problem.
Costume worn by character Midshipman Lord William Blakeney in the movie Master and Commander.
Costume worn by character Midshipman Lord William Blakeney in the movie Master and Commander.
Unlike the captain who in his great cabin lived in comparative luxury, lesser officers, like the crew, made due with cramped quarters.
Unlike the captain who in his great cabin as a gentleman lived in comparative luxury, lesser officers, like the crew, made due with cramped quarters.
Midshipmen who sought to become officers learned seamanship and navigation. They had to master many skills required to operate and command a ship.
Midshipmen who sought to become officers learned seamanship and navigation. They had to master many skills required to operate and command a ship.
Instruments used to navigate a ship included the octant and sand glass.
Instruments used to navigate a ship included the octant and sand glass.
The doctor's quarters on the HMS Surprise. A photo shows actor Paul Bettany as the film's character Dr. Stephen Maturin.
The doctor’s quarters on the HMS Surprise. A photo shows actor Paul Bettany as the film’s character Dr. Stephen Maturin.
Hammocks were often used by sailors to store clothing and personal items.
Hammocks were often used by sailors to store clothing and personal items.
A suspended mess table where sailors would eat together next to a hammock on the gun deck of HMS Surprise.
A suspended mess table where sailors would eat together next to a hammock on the gun deck of museum ship HMS Surprise.

…

Join me for more cool sights on Facebook and Twitter!

Do you like to read thought-provoking fiction? Visit my Short Stories by Richard writing blog!

Santa Claus parachutes onto an aircraft carrier!

Santa Claus is ready to leap from a helicopter onto the deck of the USS Midway aircraft carrier museum on San Diego Bay!
Santa Claus is ready to leap from a helicopter onto the deck of the USS Midway aircraft carrier museum on San Diego Bay!

Santa has been known to make some pretty grand entrances. But this one takes the cake!

Jolly old Saint Nick paid a visit to San Diego today, and arrived by air as usual. He dropped in by parachute, landing atop an aircraft carrier!

A Toys for Tots toy drive is being held on Navy Pier next to the USS Midway Museum. Bring two new toys and you’ll receive free admission to the very popular museum. The Marines have a huge truck they need to fill up! Santa will be performing a whole bunch of parachute jumps throughout the day. Bring the kids!

To learn more about the Toys for Tots program, and how you can help, please check out my blog post from several days ago.

Look! Here comes Santa Claus! I guess Rudolph and the other reindeer are getting lazy. Or maybe they're just resting up for Christmas.

Look! Here comes Santa Claus! I guess Rudolph and the other reindeer are getting lazy. Or maybe they’re just resting up for Christmas.

Old Saint Nick nimbly descends from the blue sky in order to greet the nice boys and girls of San Diego. Beats using a sooty chimney.
Old Saint Nick nimbly descends from the blue sky in order to greet the nice boys and girls of San Diego. Beats using a sooty chimney.
Santa doesn’t need a tailhook when landing atop a huge aircraft carrier. Just a sturdy parachute!
Santa doesn’t need a tailhook when landing atop a huge aircraft carrier. Just a sturdy parachute!
The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve and the USS Midway Museum are collecting toys today at Navy Pier. And Santa will be parachuting several more times! Just for fun, I suppose.
The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve and the USS Midway Museum are collecting toys today at Navy Pier. And Santa will be parachuting several more times! Just for fun!
A guy checks out an ejection seat during the Toys for Tots toy drive on Navy Pier. I wonder if Santa has one of those on his sleigh?
A guy checks out an ejection seat during the Toys for Tots toy drive on Navy Pier. I wonder if Santa has one of those on his sleigh?
Marines collect toys to help spread holiday cheer, with downtown San Diego's skyline in the background.
Marines collect toys to help spread holiday cheer, with downtown San Diego’s skyline in the background.
Here's smiling Santa, with Mrs. Claus! Spectacular entrance! They wished me a Merry Christmas! And the same to you! Ho, ho, ho! Stay jolly!
Here’s smiling Santa, with Mrs. Claus! Spectacular entrance! They wished me a Merry Christmas! And the same to you!

…

Join me for more cool sights on Facebook and Twitter!

Do you like to read inspirational, thought-provoking fiction? Visit my Short Stories by Richard writing blog!

Mural in Cesar Chavez Park depicts local history.

Close-up photo of one panel in a tile mural, which is located on a long wall near the Cesar Chavez Park playground in Barrio Logan.
Close-up photo of one tile panel in a long mural, which is located on a wall near the Cesar Chavez Park playground in Barrio Logan.

Relatively few people know about a fascinating mural in Barrio Logan. Dedicated art and history lovers can find it at the very edge of San Diego’s beautiful bay, between the Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal and the base of the Coronado Bridge.

The mural is located in Cesar Chavez Park, on a long wall just north of the playground. Created by Dale Marsh/Tile Artisans, it consists of eleven ceramic tile panels depicting half a century of local history–from the 1900s to the 1950s–through the use of vintage photographs. Images fondly remember the day-to-day life many San Diegans in this predominantly Mexican American neighborhood experienced while growing up and working on our busy waterfront.

A brief description of each panel is contained in a nearby plaque also composed of tiles. I’ve transcribed most of the words and have used them in my photo captions.

Looking north past the Cesar Chavez Park playground at an interesting public mural which depicts history in Logan Heights.
Looking north past the Cesar Chavez Park playground at an interesting public mural that depicts local history.
Plaque contains info concerning the many-paneled tile mural, which depicts Logan Heights in its Golden Years, 1900 through 1959.
Descriptions of the eleven panels in the mural, which depicts Logan Heights in its Golden Years, 1900 through 1959.
Aztec Brewery Art Ensemble adorned the ceiling and walls of the Rathskeller and Beer Tasting Room of the brewery in the early to mid 1900s on Main Street.
Aztec Brewery Art Ensemble adorned the ceiling and walls of the Rathskeller and Beer Tasting Room of the brewery in the early to mid 1900s on Main Street.
Features hoop skirts, 1932 Model T car with rumble seat and white 1936 Ford, Metro Theater usherette twins, model parents of the era, neighborhood Rhythm and Blues bands and their followers
Hoop skirts, 1932 Model T car with rumble seat and white 1936 Ford, Metro Theater usherette twins, model parents of the era, neighborhood Rhythm and Blues bands and their followers.
Papa Chuey founding proprietor of Chuey’s Restaurant cashed checks and provided credit accounts for fishermen and cannery workers in hard times.
Papa Chuey founding proprietor of Chuey’s Restaurant cashed checks and provided credit accounts for fishermen and cannery workers in hard times.
Nifty Fifties teen scene in “The Heights” spotlights Physical Education class, jitterbug dancing and positive socialization. Friendship was a true binding factor among teenagers.
Nifty Fifties teen scene in “The Heights” spotlights Physical Education class, jitterbug dancing and positive socialization. Friendship was a true binding factor among teenagers.
Tuna boats filled with tired fishermen arrived at the tuna canneries bringing work for hopeful dockworkers and cannery workers. Their arrival meant livelihood for countless families.
Tuna boats filled with tired fishermen arrived at the tuna canneries bringing work for hopeful dockworkers and cannery workers. Their arrival meant livelihood for countless families.
This 1948 Cannery Workers group photo depicts the numbers and spirit of the work force of the various canneries of San Diego’s Cannery Row.
This 1948 Cannery Workers group photo depicts the numbers and spirit of the work force of the various canneries of San Diego’s Cannery Row.
The “Leona C – San Diego” fishing crew portray the faces of the hard working men who in turn provided for numerous jobs for entire communities.
The “Leona C – San Diego” fishing crew portray the faces of the hard working men who in turn provided for numerous jobs for entire communities.
Logan Heights landmarks include the street car at 5 cents per ride, Jack’s Island a triangle house, the beautiful earlier architecture of Our Lady of Guadalupe Church and Las Palmas night
Logan Heights landmarks include the street car at 5 cents per ride . . . the beautiful earlier architecture of Our Lady of Guadalupe Church and Las Palmas nightclub . . .
Community social groups fostered a healthy and happy neighborhood where age gaps did not exist. Neighbors watched out for each other and provided a safety net for the youth.
Community social groups fostered a healthy and happy neighborhood where age gaps did not exist. Neighbors watched out for each other and provided a safety net for the youth.
Teen social clubs such as Los Gallos, Los Chicanos and the Drifters comprised the Southeast Youth Council, which was sponsored by the Old Neighborhood House.
Teen social clubs such as Los Gallos, Los Chicanos and the Drifters comprised the Southeast Youth Council, which was sponsored by the Old Neighborhood House.
Neighborhood House provided many community programs including Rondalla musical groups for women. Lupita, far right first row, is a legend in Logan Heights.
Neighborhood House provided many community programs including Rondalla musical groups for women. Lupita, far right first row, is a legend in Logan Heights.

…

Follow this blog for more photos of interesting San Diego stuff! Join me on Facebook or Twitter.