National Park Service Announces Update on Friendship of Salem

Friendship of Salem in dry dock, July 2016

NPS

News Release Date: August 7, 2017

Contact: Maryann Zujewski, 978-578-1642

Contact: Jeremy Bumagin, 978-740-1694

SALEM, MA - Salem Maritime National Historic Site announced that the National Park Service and Boothbay Harbor Shipyard have agreed upon final contract modification for Friendship of Salem, allowing completion of necessary repair work. “We're looking forward to having Friendship of Salem back on the Salem waterfront this coming winter,” said Salem Maritime Superintendent Paul DePrey. “We know how important her presence is to the local community and visitors alike. There has been considerable public interest in Friendship’s repairs over the last year.”

In July 2016, Friendship of Salem traveled to Gloucester Marine Railway on Rocky Neck for routine inspection and maintenance. Since then, over $1 million of Federal funds have been invested in repairs to the hull, the stem, and maintenance to the drive system. Upon Friendship’s return, National Park Service Maintenance Staff and Volunteers will center their efforts around up rigging activities (replacing masts, yards, and line).  
 
The Salem Partnership and the National Park Service are working closely to enhance how visitors and residents alike can experience the treasure Friendship of Salem represents. Stay tuned to social media https://www.facebook.com/SalemMaritime/ and check the park’s website https://www.nps.gov/sama for information on the ship's repairs as well as news of her anticipated return to Derby Wharf. 

Located in Salem, MA, Salem Maritime National Historic Site is open daily May 1 through October 31 and Wednesday-Sunday from November 1 through April 30. Park information is available by phoning [phone] during open hours, or by visiting the park website www.nps.gov/sama anytime.
 
More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America's 417 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Visit us at www.nps.gov, on Facebook www.facebook.com/nationalparkservice, Twitter www.twitter.com/natlparkservice.