Fort Walton Beach in Florida is home to a unique and venerable piece of maritime history: the Governor Stone. This wooden-hulled schooner, constructed in 1877, represents a bygone era of coastal trade and seafaring. Its storied past and enduring presence make it a must-see for history enthusiasts and maritime aficionados alike.
Built at the Ingalls Shipyard in Pascagoula, Mississippi, the Governor Stone was designed for the coastal trade typical of the late 19th century. Initially used to transport coal, iron ore, bricks, and grain, the schooner served as a vital link in the chain of commerce along the Gulf of Mexico. Its first owner, merchant Anthorn Greiner, employed the vessel in shallow waters to transfer goods from ocean-going ships to the port and to transport lumber from sawmills to shipyards.
In 1880, the Governor Stone was sold to Mulford Dorlon of Dauphin Island, Alabama. Under Dorlon’s ownership, the schooner expanded its operations to include oyster harvesting. By 1882, Patrick Henry Burns had acquired a half-interest in the vessel, and upon Dorlon’s death in 1895, Burns became the sole owner. The schooner continued to serve the oyster industry in Mobile Bay until 1939.
The Governor Stone was fitted with its first motor in 1923, a testament to its adaptability and enduring utility. Despite suffering damage during a hurricane, the schooner was repaired and even participated in the clandestine transport of alcohol during the Prohibition era. In 1939, the vessel was moved to Bay St. Louis for further repairs by its new owner, Isaac T. Rea of Delisle. Renamed the Queen of the Fleet and equipped with a more powerful engine, the schooner continued to evolve with the times.
During World War II, the Governor Stone served as a training ship for cadets of the U.S. Merchant Marine based in Biloxi. After the war, it returned to its previous owner, who installed a new 110-horsepower Chrysler engine. The schooner underwent several ownership changes and name changes over the years, including The Pirate Queen, Sea Bob, C’est la Vie, and Sovereign, before its historical significance was rediscovered.
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In the late 20th century, John Curry recognized the schooner as the former Governor Stone. The title was transferred to the Apalachicola Maritime Institute Inc., which launched a restoration program using original materials. The schooner was also fitted with a new diesel engine. In 1991, the Governor Stone was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and in 1992, it was designated a National Historic Landmark by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Since its restoration, the Governor Stone has served as a training vessel for traditional sailing and as an ambassador at maritime events throughout the Gulf of Mexico. It has been docked at various locations in Florida, including Eden Gardens State Park, Sandestin, and Bay County. Since 2007, the Governor Stone has been moored at the Fort Walton Beach Marina, where it continues to be a symbol of maritime heritage.
Visitors to Fort Walton Beach can step aboard the Governor Stone and travel back in time to an era when schooners were the workhorses of coastal trade. The vessel’s wooden hull and traditional rigging offer a glimpse into 19th-century shipbuilding techniques. As you walk the deck, imagine the bustling activity of loading and unloading cargo, the camaraderie of the crew, and the schooner’s resilience in the face of storms and changing tides.
The Governor Stone also serves as an educational platform, providing hands-on sailing experiences and lessons in maritime history. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a curious landlubber, the schooner offers a unique opportunity to learn about the skills and traditions that have been passed down through generations of seafarers.
The Governor Stone is a frequent participant in maritime festivals and events along the Gulf Coast. These gatherings celebrate the region’s rich nautical heritage and provide a chance to see the schooner in action. Visitors can watch as the crew hoists the sails, maneuver the vessel, and demonstrate traditional sailing techniques. These events are a great way to connect with the maritime community and appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication required to maintain a historic vessel.
In addition to public events, the Governor Stone is available for private charters and educational programs. Schools, youth groups, and organizations can arrange for sailing excursions and workshops that highlight the schooner’s history and the principles of seamanship. These experiences foster a deeper appreciation for maritime heritage and inspire the next generation of sailors and historians.
In conclusion, the Governor Stone is more than just a historic schooner; it is a living testament to the enduring spirit of maritime tradition. Its presence in Fort Walton Beach offers a unique opportunity to explore the past, learn new skills, and celebrate the rich nautical heritage of the Gulf Coast. Whether you’re a history buff, a sailing enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique adventure, a visit to the Governor Stone is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
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