Mark Your Calendars: 150th Anniversary of the Launch of the U.S.S. Monitor!

As some of you might recall last October there was ceremony at the site of the Monitor Museum in anticipation of the 150th Anniversary of the launch of the U.S.S. Monitor. Well, this anniversary will soon be upon us and the minds behind this endeavor, George J. Weinmann and Janice Lauletta-Weinmann, have assembled a wonderful roster of events to celebrate this, one of our community’s finest contributions to American history! Follows is a rundown of what they have cooked up for us. NOTE: all the these events are free unless otherwise indicated.

January 28, 2012

10:00 a.m. -3:00 p.m.: History Fair at the former Greenpoint Savings Bank (807 Manhattan Avenue). This will feature speakers and displays.
6:00 – 7:00 p.m.: Wine & cheese at the Church of the Ascension (127 Kent Street)
7:00 – 8:00 p.m.: Civil War Concert (also at the Church of the Ascension). Suggested donation: $10.00 at the door.

January 29, 2012

10:00 a.m.: Memorial Service at the Church of the Ascension
12:00 p.m.: Parade from the Church of the Ascension to the Monitor launch site (Quay Street at West Street)
12:30: Ceremony at the launch site
4:00 – 8:00 p.m.: Reception at Grand Prospect Hall. This includes a presentation, speakers, Civil War dance and music (including an eleven piece brass band!), buffet dinner and unlimited open bar. Price of admission: $60.00.

January 30, 2012

9:00 a.m.: Wreath laying ceremony at the U.S.S. Monitor statue at McGolrick Park followed by U.S.S. Monitor Bus Tour (box lunch included):

1. U.S.S. Monitor Launch Site
2. Building 92 & Dry Dock #1 at the Brooklyn Navy Yard (where the U.S.S. Monitor was Commissioned)
3. Grand Army Plaza Arch, Prospect Park
4. Greenwood Cemetery (so as to view grave sites of crew members of the U.S.S. Monitor and the The New York Civil War monument)
5. John Ericcson Statue, Battery Park

The cost of this tour is $20.00 and includes a box lunch. Those who wish to purchase tickets for any of the above-listed events— or simply desire more information, please contact either George J. Weinmann at (917) 832-9999 or Janice Lauletta-Weinmann at (718) 383-2637. Check it out!