Gloucester’s oldest fishing vessel is entering its next stage of restoration, and we need your help to see it through.

“We are passionately dedicated to restoring this historic vessel,” said Doug Parsons, President of PAMA, “the Phyllis A is an irreplaceable representation of an important era in Gloucester’s 400-year fishing history.”

We are the Phyllis A. Marine Association (PAMA), Inc., a non-profit corporation established in 2006, to promote the history of gillnetting in Gloucester, Massachusetts through the display and preservation of the fishing vessel Phyllis A. PAMA is setting out to raise $20,000 via Indiegogo and direct, tax-deductible donations to our 501(c)3.

This current stage of funding aids in completing the stern restoration, currently underway. 2015 will see the restoration of the bow, the fo’s’cle, and returning the boat to its mid-1900’s configuration. While restoration continues, PAMA is developing educational programs and participating in various harbor activities, ultimately fulfilling the Arnold children's vision.

Built in 1925, the Phyllis A is a 58’ gillnet fishing vessel. For 75 years, she was owned, operated, and maintained by the Arnold family of Gloucester. Many Gloucester fishermen got their start aboard her.

“She was my home since I was 10 years old,” reminisced Richard Arnold, former Captain, referring to his first fishing trip. “She has always been part of my family. Lois [Richard's wife] would say she still is.” Captain Arnold will be at the party to enlighten guests with his wonderful stories.

Albert Arnold was one of a group of men, known locally as the “Michigan Bears,” who brought gill-net fishing from the Great Lakes to Gloucester. In 2000, the Phyllis A was likely the oldest working fishing vessel in New England. Alvin Arnold, then 90, remembered the day he and his father went to Kennebunkport to take delivery. He, along with his two living brothers and sister, Phyllis, hoped to see the Phyllis A preserved as an example of their way of making a living from the sea, so future generations may learn from her.

To help us in our effort to revive a part of Gloucester’s fishing history, visit their website at www.Phyllis-A.org for more information.