These historic ships, moored in front of the museum, bear witness to Dunkirk's maritime history in the first half of the 20th century. Pride of place in the collection goes to Duchesse Anne, a three-master which recalls the time, not so very long ago, when the port's daily life was regulated by Bordes’ great sailing ships. Smaller, but just as visible with its bright red hull, is the light-ship Sandettie which tells the story of the marking of the coast of Flanders and the life lived by the 'sedentary sailors' whose vital work was to keep the light burning. The barge Guilde reminds us of the importance of barges in a trading port.
The tug Entreprenant, not yet open to the public, completes the collection.
Last two photos by Jens Fink-Jensen(1956- ).
All rights reserved.
