Meet Harold

Growing up in a family of shipbuilders and a town where shipbuilding is a tradition handed down over generations, Harold has learned the standards of the past and traditional techniques. He has carved out a place in history as a master mariner, boat designer, shipwright, and sail maker. Like his ancestors before him, Harold has a holistic approach to vessel design, construction and operation.

In addition to holding a bachelor’s degree in Maritime a Transportation and Fisheries from the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Harold draws upon extensive experience at sea, and of course, techniques learned in the famous shipyards of Essex.

Awards & Honors

  • 2019 Massachusetts Cultural Council, Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Grant
  • 2017 Essex National Heritage Area Trailblazer Award
  • 2016 Discover Gloucester Maritime Heritage Award
  • 2015 Massachusetts Cultural Council, Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Grant
  • 2012 National Endowment for the Arts, National Heritage Fellow. The highest national honor in the Traditional Arts. 
  • 2013 USS Constitution Museum, Don Turner Award, for dedication to “preserving the art of shipbuilding.”
  • 2011 Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, Small Businessman of the Year
  • 2010 American Schooner Association Award
  • 2006 Essex National Heritage Commission Milestone Award for “leadership in preserving our regional culture and heritage.” 
  • 2005 Massachusetts Cultural Council, Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Grant
  • 2003 Boston Antique and Classic Boat Festival, Edgar B. Caffrey Award
  • 2001 Massachusetts Cultural Commission, MCC Artist Fellow in the Traditional Arts for “outstanding contribution to the preservation and appreciation of our nation’s maritime heritage.”
  • Friendship Sloop Society, Bancroft Award, 2001 and Hadlock Award, 2009