Join us for good cheer and camaraderie at the New York Yacht Club as the National Maritime Historical Society once again hosts its Annual Awards Dinner. The National Maritime Historical Society is in the unique position of being able to focus attention and recognition on innovative programs and effective leaders in the maritime heritage field through its awards program. Through these awards, we demonstrate that positive strides can be made in preserving our important maritime heritage, and encourage others to follow the example set by our honorees.

James R. Barker and Mark W. Barker, of Interlake Steamship Company, will receive the 2023 NMHS Distinguished Service Award for their expertise and leadership in marine transportation, and most particularly for their work in preserving the maritime heritage of the Great Lakes.  The Interlake Steamship Company is a family-owned company tracing its history of more than 100 years on the Great Lakes. We applaud the Interlake Steamship Company’s commitment to ensure their fleet is at the forefront of technology and environmental stewardship by reducing air emissions, protecting waterways, and minimizing the environmental footprint while delivering essential cargoes to drive the economy of the Great Lakes region and the nation.  As Chairman of the Interlake Steamship Company, James R. Barker leads the largest privately held US flag fleet on the Great Lakes. President Mark W. Barker is a strong leader with a clear voice on industry issues at the state and national levels. The Interlake Steamship Company is US-built, US-owned, and US-crewed—critical for our country, and for our national security. The Society congratulates Mark Barker on the 639-foot MV Mark Barker, the first large bulk freighter constructed in the US for use on the Great Lakes since 1983. We are particularly impressed that Interlake has acquired the historic ferry SS Badger, the last coal-fired passenger vessel operating on the Great Lakes, a National Historic Landmark and an icon on Lake Michigan since 1953. We recognize Mark Barker’s contributions to maritime heritage as chairman of the National Museum of the Great Lakes. Richard T. du Moulin will present the award.

Edward W. Kane will receive the 2023 NMHS Distinguished Service Award in recognition for his restoration of Bolero, the historic 73-foot wooden yawl designed by Sparkman & Stephens, built by the Henry B. Nevins Yacht Yard, and launched in 1949. Kane executed two lengthy restoration projects to return Bolero to her original condition. The Society also salutes his generous support of the International Yacht Restoration School (IYRS), notably the Edward W. Kane and James Gubelmann Library. We also recognize his generosity in funding projects such as Cherokee, and the incredible restoration of the 1926 Nat Herreshoff design Marilee, one of just four remaining “Fighting Forties.” Pam Rorke Levy will present the award.

Richard Scarano will receive the 2023 NMHS David A. O’Neil Sheet Anchor Award in recognition of his significant impact as a Trustee of NMHS since 2008. Over the course of the last 15 years, the Society has benefitted greatly from his leadership, enthusiasm, and participation in countless events and initiatives. NMHS has been the fortunate recipient of significant in-kind support from him and his company Classic Harbor Lines, including donations of private sails as auction items for our awards dinners. His maritime knowledge has been invaluable. As co-chair of the NMHS Membership Committee, Scarano livestreamed sailing excursions, effectively expanding our audience and reach through promotion and marketing.  Rik van Hemmen will present the award.

Pam Rorke Levy and Matt Brooks, recipients of the 2019 NMHS Distinguished Service Award, will serve as Dinner Chairs. Richard T. du Moulin, award-winning yachtsman, will be the Master of Ceremonies.  Entertainment will be provided by the US Coast Guard Academy Cadet Chorale, directed by Daniel McDavitt, DMA. Video presentations will be produced by award-winning documentarian and NMHS Vice Chair, Richardo R. Lopes, Executive Director of Voyage Digital Media, and photographer/editor, Alessandro Lopes.