While the title of the painting that’s the latest addition to the Jacksonville Maritime Heritage Center isn’t certain, the mural depicting Downtown’s waterfront when sailing ships were the norm has had quite a history.
It was a gift to the Jacksonville Port Authority on Jan. 16, 1969, from Edgar Luckenbach Jr., president of the Luckenbach Steamship Line.
Years later, it was loaned to Florida State College at Jacksonville’s Geis Marine Center on the Trout River.
When the center closed, the painting was returned to the port authority, where it was displayed in the board room.
There it remained until a few months ago when the area was redecorated in a fashion that didn’t include space for the mural.
“They called us and asked if we’d like to take custody of it,” said Paul Ghioto, curator of the heritage center.
He said it’s a “temporary permanent loan.”
The center is on the first floor of the landing near the Adams Class Ship Museum.
It’s home to a collection of artifacts that represent the extensive seafaring history of North Florida, including commercial shipping interests and the military’s influence and contributions to the region.
The maritime museum and education center is open 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and 1-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free, and donations and memberships are welcome.
Call 355-1101 for information about group tours and volunteer opportunities.
356-2466