Hurricane Michael 2018
On October 10th, 2018 the Florida Panhandle was ravaged by a catastrophic storm. Category 5 Hurricane Michael leveled communities and forever changed the landscape of our area.
After the storm, our members and volunteers spent time digging their way out of the rubble that was their community and their homes to discover that the Governor Stone was no longer in her slip. All the area marinas were either gone or significantly damaged. Our beloved vessel was discovered capsized, demasted, and badly beaten resting near her slip. Her debris field stretched down the sea wall. It was one more devastating blow. We cried as we announced that the vessel had been found and that the damage was a catastrophic and total constructive loss.
Our members, volunteers, and community quickly rallied to the aid of the Governor Stone and promised to help bring her back to her former glory. This 146-year-old historic schooner and naional landmark represents the fortitude our communities share. The Governor Stone is the embodiment of the grace, dignity, and beauty of the Gulf Coast and those who love the vessel and the area.
Shortly after Hurricane Michael cleanup began, our Board of Directors began diligently working with FEMA and the State of Florida Historic Preservation Office to obtain funding for the rebuild. Our crew of volunteers have been working the local farmers market, teaching visitors about our history, the need to salvage the Governor Stone, and fundraising to help offset costs.
We have been battered and bruised, but we are far from broken.
Your donation will help us rebuild the historic Governor Stone for future generations to enjoy.