ARTICLE
Falmouth, MA – December 2, 2024 — The Falmouth Historical Society is pleased to announce the donation of a significant artifact with a rich local history. The Society recently received an important harpoon from Douglas Correllus of East Falmouth, which has been on loan since 2001. Mr. Correllus has generously agreed to donate the harpoon, along with its original sheath cap, to our permanent collection. The harpoon has deep ties to Falmouth’s maritime heritage, having been crafted in the shop of James D. Driggs (1820-1903), who was born in Quisset, Falmouth. Driggs, the son of Manuel Driggs, one of the earliest Portuguese settlers in Falmouth, later moved his shop to New Bedford, where this particular piece was made. The shop was eventually acquired by Mystic Seaport Museum and relocated to Mystic, Connecticut, further cementing its importance in the region's whaling history. The harpoon itself carries several identifying inscriptions, adding to its historical value. The initials “JAH” refer to the whaling ship Jacob A. Howland; “b” signifies Gorham F. Baker, a notable whaler who began his journey on the ship in 1877; “D.D.” stands for Dean & Driggs Harpoon Makers, and “L” denotes the larboard whale boat, indicating its position on the right side of the boat. These inscriptions provide a direct link to the 19th-century whaling industry, highlighting Falmouth’s connection to this crucial period in American maritime history. For several years, this remarkable artifact has been displayed in the main gallery at Conant House, where it has captivated visitors with its story of local craftsmanship and seafaring adventure. With Mr. Correllus’s decision to donate the harpoon and its accompanying sheath cap, the Society is honored to preserve and showcase this significant piece of Falmouth’s maritime legacy for generations to come. “This donation not only enhances our collection but also strengthens our mission to preserve the rich history of Falmouth,” said Rachel Lovett, Executive Director of the Falmouth Historical Society. “We are deeply grateful to Mr. Correllus for his generosity and to Carolyn Partan, a dedicated friend of the Society, for her thoughtful support in helping to make this donation possible.”