ABOUT
MISSION
The Friends of Windjammer Days are a 501c3 non-profit group of volunteers who have come together to continue the tradition of Windjammer Days in Boothbay Harbor. They have committed to maintaining the heritage of this maritime event to enhance the Boothbay Region community and the experience of maritime Maine.
HISTORY
David Dash
On a foggy day in the spring of 1962, Captains David and Marion Dash sat on the porch of their home and noticed a gathering of windjammers tucked into the harbor, patiently waiting for the fog to lift so they could safely return to sea. It was at that very moment a tradition was born. Invitations were sent to schooners sailing along the New England coast for the first Windjammer Days Festival in the boating capital of New England: Boothbay Harbor, Maine. And so it began…
Marion Dash
Fast forward to today: after countless volunteer hours, loyal sponsorship donations and the incredible generosity of Captains David and Marion Dash, this ‘festival of sailing ships’ is now the cornerstone of celebrations in our community. The Windjammer Days festival marks the kick off to summer in our region and is a time to reconnect with family, friends and neighbors after the long winter, an opportunity to support local businesses and welcome visitors. It is a time to honor our maritime history and celebrate the vital role it plays in the lives of all who live here.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Director Peter Ripley
Director Dianne Gimbel Director Mark Gimbel
Director Bill Bailey Director Kim Gillies
COMMITTEE CHAIRS
Across the Harbor Tug of War - Darrell Gudroe, Douglas Gimbel, Deb and Tom Yale
Antique Boat Parade – Doug Goldhirsch, Bruce White
Artist's Alley – Catherine Tracy, Jason Denby
Blessing of the Fleet - Local Clergy
Boats – Peter Ripley
Cod Fish Race, Lobster Eating – Rusty Court, Jack Herger, Eben Court,Catherine Tracy
Entertainment – Bill Bailey
Footbridge Lighting - Cathi Bertin
Kid’s Fest – Lori Bailey
Lighted Boat Parade - Kim Gillies
Logistics Coordinator – Dave Butterworth
Marketing/PR - Kim Gillies, Lori Bailey
Rocky Coast Road Race - YMCA
Signage - Tom Blake
Sponsorship – Mark Gimbel
TallShips 2021–MarkGimbel
Footbridge Lighting – Cathi Bertin
Logistics Coordinator – Dave Butterworth
Parade – Chamber, Lisa Walby
VIP Reception – Laura Blake, Pam O’Connor
Signage Committee: Tom Blake
Stay/Dine Pages – Patty Sterling
Rock Skipping Contest: John Webster, Patty Seybold
Military Liaison: Nick Upham
Parade – Chamber, Lisa Walby
Whale Park – KrisWard
Tee shirt contest – Rosemary Bourette
