He has been offering sailing trips out of Gloucester Harbor on a custom-built replica of the schooners used by Gloucester fisherman for more than 40 years. American history is what people are focusing on today to get a grip on their own identities and fishing is a very important part of American history. That opened my eyes to how important local history is and my own history is, being the grandson of a Gloucester fisherman. His history lessons are proving popular. Ellis said he has served thousands of customers since the first trip last summer.
People can charter the boat for birthday parties, family reunions, weddings and company outings.
A few customers have even hired the schooner for burials at sea. Ellis also offers daily sails open to the public from the Seven Seas Wharf in Gloucester. Bill Stride, owner of the Gloucester based Good Harbor Filet Co., has chartered Ellis' boat four times for family reunions and company outings. Tom's doing a great thing. I respect what he has done.