Seadrift returns

John Blaich

The Newport Harbor Nautical Museum recently received a donated oil

painting of the schooner yacht Seadrift. The painting -- by the

famous marine artist Caleb Whitbeck, a recognized member of the

American Society of Marine Artists -- will be added to the museum’s

collection of 40 paintings known as “The Famous Yachts of Newport

Harbor.”

This beautiful painting shows Seadrift under full sail about to

enter Newport Harbor. Two other famous yachts are also under sail in

the background. They are the large sloop Serenade, once owned by the

violinist Jasha Heifetz, and the yawl Santana, once owned by Humphrey

Bogart. Our local landmark, Saddleback Mountain, can also be seen in

the background.

The painting, with its excellent color tone detail, will please

the sophisticated artist. The details of the rigging and the accurate

portrait of the yacht will also please the sailors as they enjoy

viewing the painting.

Whitbeck was commissioned by George Hoedinghaus, a trustee at the

Newport Harbor Nautical Museum, to paint the 24-by-36-inch painting

especially for the museum.

The Seadrift was owned for many years by Lyman Farwell, a local

yachtsman and a Newport Harbor Yacht Club member. Whitbeck was loaned

a Farwell family house flag (owner’s private signal) and a Newport

Harbor Yacht Club Burgee. The flags are displayed at their proper

locations on Seadrift.

Working from photos from the museum’s archives, the artist has

accurately painted Seadrift. Farwell can be seen in his customary

khaki pants and white hat at the helm.

The painting is now on display at the museum, which is open from

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. There is no charge for

admission.

* EDITOR’S NOTE: John Blaich is a Corona del Mar resident and

volunteer at the Newport Harbor Nautical Museum. About once a month,

he writes histories of interesting boats that graced Newport Harbor.