On Board America's Privateer, LYNX, At Sea

Friends of Lynx,

Nearly two hundred years ago, our young (only thirty-seven years had passed since we declared our independence) nation declared war on Great Britain, a war called by many, The Second War of Independence to Prove the First. Today we refer to it as the War of 1812. Key causes of this war were the constant interruption of American trade by British ships as well as the impressment by the Royal Navy of American seamen from merchantmen on the high seas. Battles, both on land and sea, swung to either side like a ship anchored in a cross wind. While things did not go so well ashore, the Navy and American privateers frequently proved their metal, besting the might of the Royal Navy over a period of three years. And, while incredibly, there are folks out there who are unaware of it, our national anthem, The Star Spangled Banner, was written by Francis Scott Key in 1814 during the bombardment of Baltimore by the British.

In less than one year, the bicentennial of this conflict will begin. There will be celebratory events up and down the eastern seaboard and throughout the Great Lakes. Ships from navies around the world will join us in our commemoration as will the tall ships of Operation Sail. Our own Lynx, appropriate to the times, will, of course, participate in many of these magnificent spectacles, representing America's Private Navy from the War of 1812. As a reproduction 1812 tops'l schooner built on the lines of her namesake (a letter of marque trader built in Baltimore) it is only proper that our ship, America's Privateer, be involved and visible in the commemorations and celebrations.

To accomplish that takes money; crews have to be paid and fed, the ship has to be maintained, dockage paid for, fuel purchased (yes, unlike her predecessor, Lynx does have an engine!), and the like. We need all hands to heave around and provide their support for this endeavor. This opportunity will not arise again (at least in our lifetime) and it is very important that our ship takes part.

Lynx is operated by the non-profit, tax exempt Lynx Educational Foundation as a sail training vessel and provides award winning hands on educational programs for our youth. Funding this special opportunity will enhance our programs and provide an exceptional educational experience for our students, allowing them to participate in these historic events. With the lack of historical education in American schools, our mission here is critical and has never failed to evoke enthusiastic responses from our students who participate.

No contribution is too small (or too large!) and we invite your help to whatever extent you are able. Please make your check out to Lynx Educational Foundation and mail it to 509 29th Street, Newport Beach, CA 92663 or click here to make your online donation. Your fully tax-deductible contribution will enable our programs to continue to bring to life some key events in American history. Thank you in advance for your assistance.

With great appreciation for your interest, I remain,

Yours truly,

 

Jeffrey Woods

Director of Operations