The Lake Champlain Maritime Museum has received funding to honor Robert Beach Sr.’s adventurous spirit and love of history. LCMM has created the Bob Beach Sr. Maritime Apprenticeship to provide a unique and exciting opportunity for four enthusiastic young people. High school students interested in developing maritime skills will accompany the crew of the Canal Schooner Lois McClure as she travels from Lake Champlain through the Champlain and Erie Canals, bound for the 2017 World Canals Conference. For approximately ten days, these trainee sailors and interpreters will work alongside the crew of the schooner and hone seamanship skills, become immersed in the lifestyle of a 19th century canal schooner, and build valuable leadership experience, while living aboard as part of the ship’s crew. Students from Addison County high schools entering 10th, 11th, or 12th grade are invited to apply. The apprenticeship will be held between early July and mid August 2017 and will consist of a 10 to 14 day rotation, living and working aboard the canal schooner Lois McClure.
The experience will include:
- Assigned readings and curriculum on history and ecology to absorb prior to joining the crew.
- Opportunities to gain hands on experience in boating skills and shipboard life. You will be immersed in the lifestyle of a 19th century working canal schooner!
- Practice performing historical interpretation and educational programing in public settings.
- Participation in regular marine safety drills and procedures.
- Development and observation of leadership skills and styles in a dynamic environment.
- The chance to travel along the historic Erie Canal on a traditional 19th century craft!
- A stipend of $250.
To participate in the Apprenticeship, applicants must fill out an application and answer a few questions. Responses should show:
- Keen interest in regional history and ecology and public interpretation.
- Desire to develop maritime and other new skills.
- Genuine commitment to participate in all components of a strenuous, irregular daily schedule.
- Willingness to live in tight quarters with little privacy.
- Physical, mental, and emotional ability to positively contribute to the crew.
- Most importantly a wicked good attitude, a strong work ethic, and a good sense of humor.
Applications must also include a brief recommendation from an adult teacher, counselor or school advisor.
We strongly encourage applicants to apply as soon as they know they are interested and can make a commitment to the program.
- Complete an application (available on our website).
- Submit a recommendation from a teacher, guidance counselor or other adult.
- Submit the completed application to:
Matt Harrison, VYDC AmeriCorps service member at LCMM. matth@lcmm.org
Reviewers will respond to applications within 2-3 weeks. Preference will be given to Addison County applicants.
For Questions and more details contact Matt Harrison, matth@lcmm.org