Dorchester Skipjack Committee Inc.

The Dorchester Skipjack Committee Inc. is a nonprofit organization based in Cambridge, Maryland. It is a leading entity dedicated to preserving maritime heritage through the preservation and operation of the historic skipjack Nathan of Dorchester.

History

The committee was formed in 1991 with the goal of building a skipjack to promote tourism in the region. This initiative led to the construction and launch of the Nathan of Dorchester in 1994, which is believed to be the last skipjack ever built as a sailing dredge boat[1][5].

Mission

The primary mission of the Dorchester Skipjack Committee is to promote the maritime heritage of Cambridge and Dorchester County through educational experiences on the water. They offer heritage boat charters and public sails to educate passengers about the historic role of skipjacks in the Chesapeake Bay's oyster dredging industry[2][3].

Skipjacks and Maritime Heritage

Skipjacks are a unique type of commercial wooden sailing vessel that was used for over a century to dredge oysters in the Chesapeake Bay. They are the last working sail fleet in the United States and are listed on the National Register of Historic Sites. The skipjack was designated as the state boat of Maryland in 1985. These vessels were developed in the late 1800s to access oyster beds in shallow waters, requiring a low freeboard and shallow draft[1].

Operations and Support

The Dorchester Skipjack Committee operates as an all-volunteer organization, relying on donations to maintain and operate the Nathan of Dorchester. The committee's activities are supported by volunteers and community contributions[3].

Financial Activity

As a public charity, the Dorchester Skipjack Committee Inc. does not engage in grantmaking activities. It focuses on maintaining the skipjack and providing educational experiences, thereby promoting local maritime heritage[4].