Visit the Sloop Welcome
To the Editor:

Of interest to your readers and my Island friends who are boating enthusiasts, the armed sloop Welcome, which was constructed beginning in 1973 by the Mackinac Island State Park Commission and sailed as a replica of a 1700s vessel in the Straits, has made history again. After she fell into disrepair, she was taken into stewardship of the Great Lakes Maritime Academy here in Traverse City. Eventually she became the property of the maritime Heritage Alliance, which restores and preserves owners who we have come in contact with. They are a part of our cherished memories.

We look forward to returning twice in 2008, during the June Lilac Festival and also in September during the Carlton Varney Antique Show at Grand Hotel.

Paul and Jennifer Norton

Indianapolis, Indiana