Phoenix History.
Phoenix, or Phenix, was an American wooden whaler
plying the Atlantic
Ocean and Pacific Ocean from its base in Nantucket, Massachusetts, from
1821-1858. Built and owned by Zenas Coffin of Nantucket Ma until his
death in 1828 then taken over by son in law. It was one of many Whaling
ships that had women aboard as documented in the journal Mrs. Israel
Morey, the captain's wife in 1853-55.
A phoenix is a mythical bird. It has a 500 to 1,000 year life-cycle,
near the end of which it builds itself a nest of myrrh twigs that then
ignites; both nest and bird burn fiercely and are reduced to ashes, from
which a new, young phoenix or phoenix egg arises, reborn anew to live
again. The new phoenix is destined to live as long as its old self. The
bird was also said to regenerate when hurt or wounded by a foe, thus
being almost immortal and invincible - it is also said that it can
heal a person with a tear from its eyes and make them temporarily immune
to death.
Fort Phoenix State Reservation One of the smaller parks in
Massachusetts, Fort Phoenix State Reservation combines historic
features, scenic views and a variety of recreational facilities. Minutes
from downtown New Bedford, the park contains a half-mile of Buzzards Bay
beachfront. Adjacent to the park (and managed by the Town of Fairhaven)
is Fort Phoenix, a national landmark Fort which gives the park its name.
From the ramparts remnants, one can gaze across the bay where the first
naval battle of the Revolutionary War was fought, to the rolling meadows
of the Elizabeth Islands.
