Nina

In 1988, an American engineer and maritime historian, John Patrick Sarsfield, began building what was to become the first truly, historically correct replica of a 15th Century Caravel. John had discovered a group of master shipbuilders in Bahia, Brazil who were still using design and construction techniques dating back to the 15th Century.

It was in Valenca, Brazil, using only adzes, axes, hand saws, and chisels, in addition to naturally-shaped timbers from the local forest, that the Sarsfield Niņa was built. Jonathan Nance, a British maritime historian and main researcher for the project produced a sail plan for the ship, which represents the Niņa as she would have appeared during the eight recorded busy years of her life following her departure from the Canary Islands in September 1492.

In December 1991, the Niņa left Brazil and sailed to Costa Rica on a 4000 mile unescorted maiden voyage to take part in the filming of 1492. Since then, the ship has visited over 300 ports in the U.S. She is the only 'sailing museum' which is continually 'discovering' new ports, while giving the public an opportunity to visit one of the greatest little ships in the world's history. While the modern ship includes an engine and generator for safety and to adhere to maritime regulations, whenever practical, the Niņa utilizes wind power. When that happens the crew has to tend to normal sailing duties, including hoisting and lowering 1,900 square feet of sails, stowing lines, oiling the wood, navigating, and cleaning the ship.

The Nina has visited over 425 ports since 1991. She has sailed the Gulf of Mexico, the Great Lakes. She has also extensively toured the inland rivers including the Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee, Illinois, and Mississippi. During the winter months the Niņa berths in Mexico taking passengers for day trips. It is the only touring maritime museum of its kind. Sometimes, like in Chicago, the Nina's massive masts have to be removed for low bridges. When that happens, an age-old tradition is observed. "We put a coin under the mast before it is replaced. I've put several coins down there now," says crew member Elenore Kaiser.

When fall arrives, Miss Ellie returns to her home in Alamogordo, New Mexico. During the winter she travels a lot, visits friends and relatives, and does a little of the knitting and crocheting she enjoys. But when spring is in the air, she is ready to get back on her sea legs and rejoin her ship for more new discoveries.

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