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"Take the Tide Bluenose" Launched at Snyder's Shipyard

Terry Kelly (right) and Floyd King during their launch of a new musical tribute to Bluenose entitled "Take the Tide Bluenose." Photo Credit: Peter Barss. See the photo at the end of this story to view a video gallery of photos by Peter Barss from the event.

DAYSPRING, NS (October 6, 2007) - Award-winning singer, songwriter and entertainer Terry Kelly and co-writer Floyd King debuted a new musical tribute to the schooner 'Bluenose' Saturday at Snyder's Shipyard. Hundreds of guests of all ages, from as far away as Alberta, visited the Inaugural Open House at the historic shipyard that will build 'BLUENOSE IV' starting next summer.

"We toast your gallant crew", a line from the chorus of the new song was especially poignant with the attendance of two sailors from the original 'Bluenose'. Clem Hiltz, now 96, was just 11 years old when he first sailed on the legendary schooner in 1922. Charlie Tanner was 19 when he joined the crew of 'Bluenose' in 1939. Both Mr. Hiltz and Mr. Tanner were cheered by the crowd when they were introduced, and were the subject of many, many photographs.

"Take the Tide Bluenose" was an instant hit - twice - as Kelly and King entertained the crowd with two performances that also included many Maritime favourites as well as original songs including Kelly's tribute to our troops entitled "Pittance of Time."

Guests also had the chance to see original design drawings for 'Bluenose' by designer William James Roué, as well as launch particulars and design drawings for 'BLUENOSE IV', by marine draughtsman G. Vernon Shea based on the original Roué lines.

"This building is alive today," said a guest - whose comment perfectly described the electric atmosphere of the event.

The Open House also included video presentations showing an historical gallery of ships built by Snyder's Shipyard, an assortment of almost 100 photos and documents of the original 'Bluenose', and another showing the construction process of the new Bluenose Sloop being built at the Shipyard. The Sloop, now in the planking stages, and its jig, were also popular among the visitors.

Three different models of 'Bluenose II' were also on display - and greatly appreciated - provided by modellers Bobby Schmeiser and Eugene Schwartz.

Many thanks to all those who helped make our Inaugural Open House a rousing success - coming together in Building History for the Future.

Two original Bluenose crewman, Clem Hiltz (left) and Charlie Tanner (right) were special guests at our Inaugural Open House. Click on the photo for a complete gallery video of the event. Photos by Peter Barss.