JENNIE FLOOD KREGER

JENNIE FLOOD KREGER

Built at Belfast, Maine the JENNIE FLOOD KREGER was the largest wind powered ship ever built at this port. The 5 masted schooner joined the fleet of Crowell and Thurlow of Boston. Somewhat anxious to begin her career she is reported to have slipped off the ways at the Matthews Brothers Yard while the launching party celebrated with dinner at an uptown banquet hall. At her launching flowers replaced champagne in defference to the views of the teacher and well known speaker for whom she was named, Mrs William (Jennie Flood) Kreger, wife of the Captain. In March 1921 the KREGER collided with the SS EUGENE V R THAYER off Cape Henlopen and a lawsuit ensued. Crowell and Thurlow lost the case., the KREGER was sold at auction to satisfy the claim. The KREGER remained part of the Crowell fleet as a cargo vessel until October 1930. The next few years found her laid up at Chelsea where a fire and time ravaged the once proud hull. In 1935, after a boy drown while swimming in her water filled hold. she was broken up for fire wood for the needy. Leavitt E. Coffin at work, owner of Coffin's Clothing Store, Rockland. Model was made by his father Willis Coffin when he was 82 years old.