On Saturday, September 3, the Montauk Historical Society held its second annual commemoration of the Pelican fishing vessel tragedy that took place on September 1, 1951. The ceremony at the Montauk Point Lighthouse honored the memory of the 45 people, including the vessel’s captain, Eddie Carroll, who lost their lives when the charter fishing boat the Pelican capsized about a mile off Montauk Point. The event also paid tribute to the 19 survivors and those in the Montauk community who were part of the rescue efforts that day 71 years ago.

Rabbi Debra Stein, Cantor of the Jewish Center of the Hamptons, opened the program as the Coast Guard laid a wreath in the waters off the Point near where the 42-foot fishing vessel capsized. Rev. Bill Hoffman of the Montauk Community Church spoke, and attendees viewed a film about the Pelican tragedy that occured when a sudden storm capsized the overloaded boat carrying 64 people. Many of the victims were anglers who traveled to Montauk from New York City via the Long Island Rail Road’s “Fisherman’s Special” train. Author Tom Clavin details the disaster and the events leading up to it in his book, Dark Noon. Several significant recreational fishing regulations were put into effect as a result of the incident. 

Incorporated in 1962, the Montauk Historical Society researches, studies, preserves, and shares Montauk history. It is a privately funded, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization responsible for the Second House Museum, the Montauk Point Lighthouse, the Montauk Indian Museum, and the Carl Fisher House. Visit the Montauk Historical Society website for more information about the F/V Pelican.