Join local author Steve Williams for a discussion about his most recent book, From Slavery to Shipwright, the story of John Mashow. Mr. Mashow knew a whaler ship like a race car driver knows his automobile. That's why he could design and build them so well.
Mashow is credited with having crafted over one hundred ocean vessels, including sixty whale ships and fourteen schooner ships. John had to know different woods and understand how and in what capacity they function best. After years of being enslaved in Georgetown, he left South Carolina determined not to let his past dictate his future.
In 1831, he built his first ship near New Bedford, Massachusetts. Over the next 30 years, he received numerous accolades from whaling captains, owners, and crew members, who praised his ships as some of the “best in the waters.” The names of these vessels have become a part of nautical history and include the Cape on Pigeon, the Morning Light, the Sea Queen, A. R. Tucker, Henry H. Crapo, Benjamin Tucker, Matilda Sears, Jireh Swift, and many others. Steve Williams will highlight the life and legacy of this spectacular shipwright.
About the Speaker:
Steve Williams was born and raised in New York City. He attended Hofstra University and Furman University, where he earned his Master’s in School Administration and Supervision. A former educator and school administrator for over three decades, he has taught at every grade level. He is currently retired and resides in Georgetown, South Carolina.
He is a noted writer, speaker, historian, columnist, and author of several books, including: If You Don't Push, Nothin' Moves, a rousing collection of inspirational prose and poems, As I Travel Along (text & workbook), The story of Harriet Tubman and James Bowley, 24 Extraordinary People Who Made a Difference, The true stories of 24 people who helped their community from 1865 to 1984, and From Slavery to Shipwright, the story of John Mashow.
Currently a columnist for GabNews in Georgetown, Steve is formally an award-winning columnist for the Post and Courier, the parent company for the Georgetown Times and South Strand Newspapers.