Tribute to Port Washington's Maritime History
Location:
Jackson Street Retaining Wall (east of Franklin St)Artist:
James Barany
Mural Completion Year:
2025
Media Used:
acrylic paint
James Barany
Mural Completion Year:
2025
Media Used:
acrylic paint
Inspiration:
This grand panoramic mural is designed not only to highlight key historical elements unique to Port Washington but also to embrace the dynamic ecosystem of Lake Michigan and its fishing industry, all set within a transitional weather system.
This grand panoramic mural is designed not only to highlight key historical elements unique to Port Washington but also to embrace the dynamic ecosystem of Lake Michigan and its fishing industry, all set within a transitional weather system.
On the far left, the mural introduces native fish species, including lake trout, northern pike, walleyes, and alewives, weaving through the remnants of a historic shipwreck: Niagara (1845). This wreck was selected based on its well-documented archival records. Above, a flock of seagulls scatters over the breakwater, while the iconic Port Washington lighthouse withstands the impact of an incoming wave. As the scene transitions to the right, the waters calm.
Lower on the mural, a tribute to the area's indigenous heritage emerges in the form of transparent apparitions of indigenous women in a canoe. Above the horizon, a schooner sails in calmer waters, leading into a scene featuring local fishermen. They celebrate their catch while a young boy and his dog look on, hoping for better luck. The mural’s final section on the far right highlights the coal dock, fish charters, and a recognizable part of a local boat repair shop, paying homage to the region’s rich maritime history.
Thank you to the Port Washington Historical Society for all their support and resources.
Excerpt by Barbara Joosse:
Lower on the mural, a tribute to the area's indigenous heritage emerges in the form of transparent apparitions of indigenous women in a canoe. Above the horizon, a schooner sails in calmer waters, leading into a scene featuring local fishermen. They celebrate their catch while a young boy and his dog look on, hoping for better luck. The mural’s final section on the far right highlights the coal dock, fish charters, and a recognizable part of a local boat repair shop, paying homage to the region’s rich maritime history.
Thank you to the Port Washington Historical Society for all their support and resources.
Excerpt by Barbara Joosse:
“The Niagara" was a “freedom ship,” meaning it transported freedom-seekers to Canada through the Underground Railroad. The Niagara hired a crew that included 20% blacks so freedom seekers could “hide in plain sight.” It was also a glamorous “palace steamer,” luxuriously appointed with stained glass, sweeping staircases like the Titanic. It carried many immigrants on its journey south, the journey I depict in the story. Before the Niagara left Collingwood, there was a note on the steward’s desk: "There will be a fire. Everything is in place. Take care of yourself.” The captain decided it was a hoax. As the ship left Sheboygan the captain took a nap and was awakened by gun shots and an explosion. No life jackets and not enough lifeboats. Congressman Macy was at the railing on the top deck with a little French boy (2 years old) and a black deckhand. He cried out, "One hundred thousand dollars to anyone who can save me!” The deckhand was one of the few on board who could swim. Instead of Macy, he grabbed little Frank Willette and swam to a floating plank, then the shores of Port. Macy, wearing a huge money belt full of gold, himself a gigantic man, jumped from the top deck into a lifeboat filled with women and children. He broke the ropes and everyone died.”
Video Credit: Dale Palecek
