What it takes to float their boats

Bath Iron Works and Maine Maritime Museum showcase the state's seaside history and industry

Boston Globe April 5, 2009

BATH, Maine -- Boat building, sailmaking, fishing, and global trade are among the marine industries driving this state's economy and shaping its character. And nowhere is the land-sea connection more apparent than at Maine Maritime Museum and its neighbor, Bath Iron Works, where ships have been built for the US Navy since 1893.

A trolley tour of General Dynamics' Bath Iron Works is not to be missed. The one-hour guided tour begins at the museum, which this year increased the schedule to five times per week. Last year most tours sold out.

"After 9/11 we stopped all visits other than those directly related to our business with the US Navy, even veterans groups," Jim DeMartini, the communications manager, said later. "But it didn't feel good. A lot of us are Navy veterans and reservists and we're all proud of what we do. When the museum came to us about reinstating the tours, we agreed. . . . It gives us the opportunity to show the public what we do and how proud we are of the tremendous skill it takes to build a Navy warship."

FMI

Jim's comment: A fine blend of Maine tourism & industry! This should be a real summer draw.