This print is now available!
I painted this 30 inch by 40 inch painting for Hal, after he became Master on this unique split Hopper Dredge. Many of the men who sailed with him at that time have remained on the Eagle 1. Some have advanced to Officer status. In a tribute to them, and their friendship to Hal, I am pleased to offer this print.
Below is an excerpt from my book, telling more of the Eagle 1
THE EAGLE 1
Shortly after we settled into our new home location in the Ozarks, Hal became the first captain on the Eagle I.
The Eagle I is Dutch designed. She was built in the Avondale Shipyard (New Orleans.) It cost 40 million dollars to build her. At that time she was the largest split hopper dredge in the United States. Bean Dredging had the Eagle I built with the idea of being able to work in the entrance of Harbors where seas can be rough.
While Hal was Captain (close to three years) the dredge worked various ports in the Gulf; the West Coast of the United States and in the country of Columbia.
Yes, the hull does split! The design is two hulls longitudinally hinged and opens and closes with hydraulic rams.
We went to the christening of this amazing vessel in New Orleans. From a handout, celebrating the event, I used a small photograph to paint the painting.
The Eagle I painting has a prominent place of honor in our home, needless to say. Captain Hal has his small domain of memories, with articles and paintings reflecting back close to forty years of sailing many seas and waters
