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Greenwich Historical Society To 'Cruise Through The Past'

GREENWICH, Conn. -- When did Steamboat Road morph from gritty, working waterfront to prime Greenwich real estate? 

The Steamboat Road docks (circa 1920) eventually morphed from a gritty, working waterfront area to prime Greenwich real estate. Learn how and when during Aug. 11's "Cruising Through the Past" event sponsored by the Greenwich Historical Society.

The Steamboat Road docks (circa 1920) eventually morphed from a gritty, working waterfront area to prime Greenwich real estate. Learn how and when during Aug. 11's "Cruising Through the Past" event sponsored by the Greenwich Historical Society.

Photo Credit: Contributed

Why did seamen who were fleeing from a burning wreck swim away from Greenwich Point when they were only yards from safety? 

What drew New York City's infamous Boss Tweed to the Greenwich shore? 

Hear some of these stories -- and more -- when you take a cruise back in time led by Captain Henry Marx, owner and president of Landfall Navigation. The Greenwich Historical Society's "Cruising Through the Past" is from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 11. Guests will meet at 5:15 p.m. at the Island Beach Ferry Dock off Arch Street.

Tickets are $15 for society member; $20 for nonmembers. Advance reservations are required by signing up here or calling 203-869-6899, Ext. 10. A Greenwich parks pass is not required.

The two-hour excursion focuses on the important role Greenwich's shoreline played in shaping its development. From the decks of the Island Beach ferry, you'll gain a whole new perspective on Greenwich history, and, although no hoisting of heavy sails will be involved, snacks and "grog" (otherwise known as a cash bar) will be available to fortify cruisers throughout the evening courtesy of Randy's Wines of Cos Cob. 

Marx's long career on the water has included service as a seaman on a Norwegian-flagged oil tanker and military service in the U.S. Naval Reserve in diesel submarines. An accomplished marine educator, Marx holds copyrights on one marine safety and two navigation courses, which he teaches regularly. From 1992-94, Marx served on the Committee on Nautical Charting of the Marine Board division of the National Academy of Science reviewing NOAA chart making. He currently is chairman of the Stamford Sailing Foundation. 

The cruise is offered in conjunction with the Greenwich Historical Society's exhibition, "Close to the Wind: Our Maritime History," currently on view at the Storehouse Gallery, 39 Strickland Road, Cos Cob. Gallery hours are noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays. 

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