Can they do it? A beautiful new model of the original Ranger at the exhibit caused many hearts to lift. Bringing back the lost traditions of Piscataqua shipbuilding is a lofty goal indeed, but all eyes were on the prize at the recent maritime festival. This model is from the collection of Nate Hazen.

A sky blue wading pool full of little Rangers captivated many little privateers. Here one John Paul Jr. launches his own fleet of ships. Another $10 million and he can play with the real thing.

Heave, ho! Among the experiential exhibits at the Ranger festival site was this kid-sized mast and rigging. With instructions from a tall ship trainer, the group learned to work together and...

...Huzzah! The result of following the captain's orders was a salty sense of satisfaction as the model mast picked up the June breeze. The completed Ranger will be employed partially as a sail training vessel as well as an ambassador for peace in planned trips across the Atlantic.

Photos and text by J. Dennis Robinson
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For more information:
John Paul Jones Theme Site
The Ranger Foundation
History of the Jones House