Thar She Blows: Whaling in New York Lecture

This is the eighth lecture of our East End Environment Series!

Join SOFO for light refreshments and a presentation with Stony Brook University's Dr. Tara Rider on how whaling has shaped New York’s maritime communities and culture. While Native Americans were the first people to whale in New York, Europeans arriving on the shores of New York quickly came to see these ocean mammals as a valuable commodity. Starting in the 1640s, Long Island towns such as East Hampton and Southampton formed local shore whaling companies that led to the whale becoming New York’s first “cash crop.” This industry would then help drive the local economy in the 19th century as young men travelled the world, pursuing whales for their oil and bones. Today, whales continue to attract New Yorkers, though no longer for hunting, but rather for whale watching.

This program is for adults, teens, and children ages 8+.

Please note: this program was rescheduled from February 7.