Black Rock Harbor Cruise on Wednesday, July 19

BRIDGEPORT — Fairfield Historical Society will host a cruise of Black Rock Harbor on Wednesday, July 19, aboard the former US Navy liberty launch, the Chief. The vessel will cast off at 5:30 pm and will return at approximately 7 pm.

Prior to sailing, tour participants will have an opportunity to stop at Dundon House, a restored 1893 home where historic photographs and other maritime artifacts are displayed to tell the story of Black Rock seaport.

Captain Bruce Williams will discuss the importance of Black Rock as a Long Island Sound port that dates to the 17th Century. A part of Fairfield until 1870, the harbor was a major trading port to and from the West Indies and was also an important shipbuilding center. In the 17th and 18th centuries it was one of the only Connecticut ports that could accommodate larger ships.

The cruise will depart from Captain’s Cove Seaport, 1 Bostwick Avenue. There is a limit of 30 passengers and reservations are required. Tickets are $10 for members and $15 for nonmembers.

A second cruise has been planned for Sunday, August 12, at noon.

Founded in 1903, Fairfield Historical Society is a privately supported, nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of the Fairfield region through its historic properties, museum, and educational programs.

For more information or to make a reservation for the cruise, call 203-259-1598.