Navy Cutter to Head Classic Weekend

A one-of-a-kind wooden cutter built by the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard will be among the vessels at the 2006 Classic Weekend sponsored by the Classic Yacht Association. The event brings together classic and historic yachts each June to Pier 66 / Bell Street Pier on the central waterfront in downtown Seattle. This year's festivities take place June 16-18. The showcase vessel, Old Man IV, (pictured left) is the cutter for the commander of the US Navy Region Northwest. It was designed by Ed Monk, Sr., and delivered to the Navy in 1957. The only vessel of its kind built by PSNS, Old Man IV is the last in a series of command cutters that remains operational. The vessel's double-planked hull is made of Alaskan yellow cedar with natural teak decks. The cabin is constructed of mahogany and fir. Used for ceremonial purposes, Old Man IV is the traditional lead boat for Seattle's Opening Day festivities for the boating season, as well as supporting the Seafair celebration by mooring with the start/finish line vessels for the hydroplane races. (Photo courtesy Classic Yacht Association.)

For more Puget Sound area maritime heritage activities, visit MHN's Calendar page.