In the News: Here’s The Story Behind The Fisherman’s Memorial In Massachusetts

February 16, 2022 / Good to Know, History/Maritime, In The News, Outdoor Adventures, Things to Do & See

Excerpt from Here’s The Story Behind The Fisherman’s Memorial In Massachusetts | Written by Melissa Mahoney | Published by Only in Your State

If you live in Gloucester, you may already be familiar with the story of the most iconic statue in town. If you’re a visitor, you may have noticed it, maybe wondered about it, or maybe not thought much about it at all. Regardless, the Fisherman’s Memorial statue is certainly the most recognizable landmark in town. Standing and looking out towards Gloucester Bay, this memorial in Massachusetts has a story, and we are going to tell you all about it.

The small coastal city of Gloucester is found on Cape Ann. The area was first settled in 1623, and it was incorporated in 1642. It was named after Gloucester, England where the first settlers emigrated from.

As the nation’s oldest seaport port, Gloucester is known for its fishing industry. Its maritime history has helped shape the town into what it is today.

The most notable landmark within the city is an eight-foot-tall bronze cenotaph statue of a fisherman behind a ship’s wheel. It stands atop a five-foot granite base with the words “They That Go Down To The Sea In Ships, 1623-1923” engraved on it.

Also known as the “Man at the Wheel” and “Fishermen’s Memorial Cenotaph,” Gloucester’s Fisherman’s Memorial was designed by an English sculptor by the name of Leonard Craske. His design was part of an artistic competition for Gloucester’s 300th anniversary. In 1925, it was cast and placed along Stacy Esplanade.

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