Red Hook

Party like it’s 1720 at the Waterfront Barge’s ‘Pirate Ball’

Shiver your timbers in Red Hook

September 17, 2013 By Mary Frost Brooklyn Daily Eagle
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Get yourself to Red Hook and get your pirate on. The historic Red Hook Barge is just about 100 years old, and as part of the yearlong “Barge 100” celebration a swashbuckling Pirate Ball is taking over the vessel on Thursday, September 19, from 6:30 – 10 p.m. The barge is docked at 290 Conover Street in Brooklyn.

The Pirate Ball will feature performances by vocalist Bliss Blood and guitarist Al Street, specialty grog, hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction, and spectacular sunset views of New York Harbor and the Statue of Liberty.

The event will honor The O’Connell Organization and George and Alison Tocci for their support.

Built in 1914, the Lehigh Valley Railroad Barge Number 79 is the only surviving all-wooden example of a Hudson River Railroad Barge from the Lighterage Age (1860-1960) that remains afloat and accessible to the general public.

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In 1986, Captain David Sharps founded the Waterfront Museum aboard the vessel to promote understanding of New York Harbor’s maritime history. Since 1994, the Barge has been docked in Red Hook and has become a neighborhood landmark.

As original Red Hook pioneers, The O’Connell Organization created the homeport for the Barge in 1994, and since then they have continued to donate materials, equipment and leadership to help keep it afloat.

George Tocci started the famed Sunset Music Series that ran for 13 years to sold-out audiences. Alison Tocci, president of the City Parks Foundation with a long history in publishing, served as the Waterfront Museum board chair for ten years.

All proceeds from the Pirate Ball will benefit the Waterfront Museum Barge. Visit www.barge100.org for details.


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