The Friends of The Governor Stone
The Friends of the Governor Stone, Inc. is a group of people who share a love of the sea, sailing ships and their history, just like you. Our specific focus is sharing our love and knowledge of the sailing vessel Governor Stone, a designated National Historic Landmark that is 147 years old.
Our mission is to highlight and share the history of waterfront communities by sailing and exhibiting the 1877 Schooner Governor Stone along the Northern Gulf Coast.
Recovery from Hurricane Michael is our objective through 2025. Rebuilding the 1877 Schooner Governor Stone enables us to share our love and knowledge of the sea, sailing, and the history of waterfront communities along the Northern Gulf Coast with you and your family, our neighbors from the very young to our cherished elders.
Over the years, we have offered educational opportunities for various youth groups and day sailings for the general public. We teach historic and current maritime practices; boater and sailing safety; historic sailing skills; local and regional history; and we encourage appreciation and preservation of the waterways and aquatic creatures.
After Hurricane Michael destroyed the Governor Stone in October 2018, FOGS members diligently raised money for our share of anticipated expenses as part of the government funding to rebuild our historic vessel. Rebuilding began in May 2022 and we anticipate relaunching her in late 2025, which will be her 148th year in existence. This major achievement is possible only through the generosity of our FOGS members and community supporters.
Come aboard and become a FOGS Shipmate!