Restoration, Preservation, Maintenance and Sailing of the Historic Vessel.
We’re Rebuilding the Schooner!
Check out The Governors progress on our Restoration News Tab, our Facebook, and Stone Loft Boat Shop’s Facebook. Our come by and see her and St. Andrews School.
We are the Friends of The Governor Stone.
The Governor Stone, built in 1877 in Pascagula, Mississippi is modeled after the Atlantic coast schooners who came before her. She is a two masted, fore and aft gaff-rigged, centerboard, shallow draft schooner ideally suited for coastline and bay travel. Two masts means a smaller vessel for maneuvering in tight quarters. Fore and aft rigging allows her to sail close to the wind, wasting less time tacking. It also increases cargo space and reduces the number of crew members. The Governor Stone generally sails with a crew of three. The centerboard configuration, shallow draft, small keel and apple cheeks distinguish the Governor Stone as a uniquely gulf-wise vessel. These fine little schooners handled the shoals and shifting sandbars along the coast. Where roads and railroads were nonexistent or sand and streams blocked the passage of land vehicles, the coastal schooners provided the communication and transport that made the development of the coastal South possible.
Membership
The Friends of the Governor Stone, affectionately known as FOGS, share a love for our historic vessel, along with the goal of a far-reaching future on the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. When you become a FOGS shipmate, you will receive first notice of sailings, workdays and community events. No sailing experience is necessary to join in the comaraderie and fun.
Ship Store
Share your love for the 147-year-old sailing schooner with your own treasures from our Ship’s Store. With your donation, you can select premium gifts for your family, friends, and of course, yourself!
Hurricane Michael
On October 10, 2018, Hurricane Michael devasted the Florida Panhandle as a category 5 hurricane with sustained winds of 155 mph and gusts over 200 mph. Even though the eye struck approx. 27 miles east of Panama City, the tidal surge and winds capsized the Governor Stone in her slip at St. Andrews Marina. The Friends of the Governor Stone have secured the funds and expertise to rebuild our beloved schooner. Our goal is to see the Governor Stone sail again in Late 2025.
“The Governor Stone embodies maritime heritage as a moving museum and a reminder of the slower-paced past and the 147 year old labor-intensive traditions of the Gulf Coast. Restored several times and repaired constantly, as befits a wooden seagoing vessel, the Governor Stone endures and will recover to sail again.”
Contact
Have a question about the Governor Stone? Have a story to share about this historic vessel? We would love to hear from you.
Email
info@governorstone.org
Phone
(850) 628-3436