Pirates in Paradise 2008 - Key West, Fl
Extra Page: The Dead Man's Chest Auction
(Photo: Cpt. Sophia)
It is tradition in English Vessels to auction off the
belongings of deceased Seaman. An account from William Funnell's book A
Voyage Round the World, suggests that the seamen paid far more for
the items than their actual worth, probably because they knew the money
was going to the seaman's widow and family.
At the end of last year's Pirates in Paradise, Capt. Bo said he wanted to participate but couldn't make the actual event. So he offered to make a chest and some articles to be auctioned off at this year's event. People started offering to donate items to the chest.
It was supposed to occur on Saturday afternoon, following the Tryal of Anne Bonny and Mary Read. Unfortunately, that didn't happen and it was moved to Sunday night. Items continued to pour in. The auction started before dinner and finished after, raising $813 for the Fort. It was so successful, another is planned for next year. Here's some shots:
Below left: Captain Jim hoarsely hawks a jug during the auction before dinner while fellow auctioneer Spike looks on. Note the Pyracy Pub flag in the back ground. Below right: Jim's two Vannas prepare to show the jug around - Mae on the left and Brig on the right.
(Photo: Mission,
Mary's Camera)
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(Photo: Mission,
Mary's Camera)
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Below left: Vanna Mae takes a poster around to show the audience. Below right: Spike offer the 'signed' No rum Charlie poster to the highest bidder.
(Photo: Mission,
Mary's Camera)
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(Photo: Mission,
Mary's Camera)
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Below left: After dinner the Viceroy joined Captain Jim as guest auctioneer. Here they are trying to figure out what the heck it is they're auctioning. Below center: Patrick Hand sits off and to the right and observes the auction proceedings over a contemplative cigarette. Below right: Fayma Callahan paying for something she has won. (Not sure what, exactly. It may be a pouch.)
(Photo: Mission,
Mary's Camera)
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(Photo:
Mary's Camera)
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(Photo: Mission,
Mary's Camera)
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