Ships in Port -

[vintage_tube]

My Grandfather, a Dane who immigrated to this country when he was 22 in 1920 via a Square Rigger took odd jobs painting, working on farms and eventually obtained citizenship in a few years later. In the 30's he landed a job as a mate on a yacht and continued with that job just prior to WWII when he decided to joing the Merchant Marines as a 3d Mate. WWII came and the Merchant Marines responsibilities for moving munitions, oil, and troops mainly became utmost. Infact, the Army had more ships than the Navy did at that time and believe it was known as the Army Transportation Service; then somewhere changed to be known as MSTS (Military Sea Transportation Service). He moved up rather quickly, 2 Mate, 1st Mate and by the end of the war, he made Captain.

He captained ships throughout the 7 seas, retiring in the late 60's. His passion was painting either ships in port or ships at sea. He was self taught -probably honing his skills during those trans-oceanic trips.

Anyway, this particular painting was his so-called masterpiece. Eventually, he painted 3 of these and gave them to family. I never received a copy as was always overseas (18 years total) & hadn't settled down. When he passed, grandmother presented it to me just prior to her passing.

He sure had a lot of talent when it came to painting -- most of which was from memory or imagination. Now & then he would copy something he saw in a magazine or book.

Thought you'd enjoy this.

Bob

[Still-One]

Bob
That is really very nice and a truly a family keepsake. I am sure you are proud to have it in your home.

Jim

[cmalak]

very nice Bob i hope this painting gives you great joy and that it will pass down from generation to generation in memory of your Grandfather. it's nice to have family heirlooms.

[MC352]

That is a family treasure, both the paintings and the story.

[John James]

Wonderful!

[f1 fan]

Bob...a beautiful painting from a great man, your grandfather. This is a family keepsake you are proud of and will treasure forever.

Dave

[vintage_tube]

Thanks everyone -- it is something we cherish as a reminder to someone loved & highly respected as well as being family himself.

Bob

[Supercronopio]

That's very cool.

[jdandy]

Bob.......Thank you for sharing the story of your Grandfather, a true self made man, and a very talented artist. The painting is alive with feeling and character. It is a tremendous family heirloom.

[Rilands]

Amazing picture. I really like it. Thanks for sharing.