Befitting the broad range of Bowditch’s activities—five commercial voyages to the East, advancement of celestial navigation and maritime cartography, contributions to the development of insurance and civic institutions—this interdisciplinary conference will address a broad range of aspects of the navigator's work and legacy. Bowditch scholars and navigation specialists from eminent research universities, as well as scholars from the U. S. Naval Observatory and Sea Education Association will explore interconnections between maritime history, science, and commerce in the Early Republic, and Bowditch's legacy in these areas today. And, in the spirit of Bowditch's commitment to education, we warmly invite participation by scholars, teachers, museum and historic site professionals, and the interested public.

The conference will take place in historic Salem seaport, and will feature venues at the home of Nathaniel Bowditch, (under restoration) the Peabody Essex Museum, the Salem Athenaeum, the Salem Maritime National Historic Site, and Salem State College. Attendant activities will include museum and historic site visits, including tours of the replica 1797 merchant vessel Friendship.

For further information, please see our website at www.nathanielbowditch.org, or call the Bowditch Initiative: (978) 744-4536. or download registration form (microsoft® word doc)