The Beaufort Wind Scale is a scale that is used by seamen and coastal observers to estimate wind speed. The scale was created by British Rear Admiral Sir Francis Beaufort in the year 1805, and it was derived from his observations of sea conditions. It was especially important during the 19th century, because no sophisticated wind speed-measuring equipment was available at that time. Despite the introduction of new technologies, it is still being used by seafarers today, and it also applied to measure wind speed on land.Initially, the Beaufort Wind Scale has 13 classes, which were numbered 0 to 12, to provide descriptions for various wind conditions. It was only in 1955 that the scale was extended to include five more classes, numbers 13 to 17. The present scale also includes descriptions of the effects of wind forces on land. The modern Beaufort Wind Scale consists of six columns, which […]
The exciting sport of sailing dates back thousands and thousands of years. Throughout history, sailboats have been used for industrial, commercial, and recreational purposes, and have undergone many structural changes. Whether for business or pleasure, sailing is a thrilling adventure that anyone can enjoy. These links are brought to you by Action Donation Services® who processes the boat and yacht donations for some of America’s finest charities:Sailing Groups and OrganizationsInternational Sailing Federation: International group that governs the bylaws of the sailing world.US Sailing: National organization that instructs and enables sailors to enjoy their passion.Sail America: Group that supports the sailing and sailing product industry.Inland Lake Yachting Association: Organization for those interested in yachting and sailing on lakes.American Sailing Association: The leading group on sailing schools and instruction.American Boat and Yacht Council: The regulation-making body for the boating industry.Recreational SailingSailing Magazine: Leading source of current sailing news and reviews.Sailnet: Large community […]
The state of Florida is home to some of the greatest examples of lighthouses in the United States and around the world. Many of the lighthouses are open to the public for viewing and sightseeing and can provide tourists with some wonderful photographs to bring home after a vacation in Florida. Even if there is no public access to these beautiful constructions, you can still get some good shots of the lighthouses from other areas surrounding the building.The Ponce Inlet Lighthouse is the only lighthouse in Florida that is an historic landmark. It was built in 1887 and is open to the public. Visitors are allowed to climb to the top of the lighthouse and it offers a stunning view from the very top. There are museums on the grounds where visitors can view the keeper’s quarters and some lens exhibits that display some wonderful examples of lighthouse lenses.St. George […]
The bombing of Pearl Harbor remains one of the most traumatic events in recent United States history and there are a number of museums that commemorate it. However, few museums are like The USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, a museum dedicated to the submarine known as the “Pearl Harbor Avenger.”On December 7, 1942, exactly one year after Japan attacked Pearl Harbor, the Bowfin was launched into war. It was named after the bowfin, a predatory fish known for its voraciousness and it lived up to its name. It would go on to sink 44 enemy ships during nine separate and highly successful war patrols. The Bowfin was awarded a Presidential Unit Citation and a Navy Unit Commendation. It was also one of the only 15 ships saved from becoming scrap metal for the army when it was acquired by the Pacific Fleet Memorial Association in 1979. Subsequently, it was […]
When you think of classic autos that you would love to own, at or near the top of everyone’s list would be a Ferrari. With sleek lines, smooth handling and with a history of speed and success in some of the world’s most famous races, it’s no wonder that Ferrari is one of the most beloved cars.Early History of Ferrari (1929 – 1947)When Enzo Ferrari formed Scuderia Ferrari (Ferrari Stable) in 1929, he did so to support race drivers in Italy. Ferrari created cars for race drivers in Alfa Romeo cars until 1938, when Alfa Romeo hired Ferrari to lead their auto racing enterprise. Unfortunately, with the approaching War, the Alfa Romeo Company was taken over by the Italian government. Ferrari continued to work for Alfa Romeo until 1947, when he formed his own car company.Early Years: Ferrari’s early years at Alfa RomeoFerrari Early Years: early racing career of Enzo […]