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Sustaining Drive Launched

The NESF annual Sustaining Drive is launched again and this one will be significant as either the most successful or the last. The restoration of the lone surviving coastal steamer NOBSKA, to which many have loyally contributed in the past, is in serious jeopardy. We fear that in spite of our continuing efforts to secure restoration funds, where some very promising prospects are developing, and the generous support from the National Park Service and federal Department of Transportation’s ISTEA Program in helping to rebuild her hull, all may prove to be for naught.

The Foundation itself, that grew out of the Friends of NOBSKA, ceases to have the operating funds to continue. In order to “keep things afloat” for the past 5 years, the administrative costs have been largely underwritten by one trustee, whose contributions and personal loans now exceed half a million dollars. This source of funding has gone dry and the Foundation will close its doors soon without your help.

Many of you has contributed significantly in the past and we hope you can see your way to making a healthy contribution at this time. Most have personal reasons for having become involved with NOBSKA and we sincerely hope you will reflect on your interest in our maritime heritage as exemplified by NOBSKA as the country’s last coastal steamer.

Current members will receive a description of recent events and an outline of future plans, in lieu of a Telegraph or NOBSKA NEWS that due to postal and/or publication costs have been regretfully, but necessarily delayed.

Please help as much as possible at this time of great need. As an extra incentive, a contribution of $250 or more will ensure that you receive a copy of our new and highly acclaimed professionally produced SS NOBSKA video. An additional contribution of your effort to encourage a friend or family member to join the Foundation would also be greatly appreciated. Words fail us in trying to express how very much your effort and support means to all of us and all fellow members of The New England Steamship Foundation.