Yesterday I saw the exhibit, “Orange Pee, a Slice of Orange County Surf History”. Thanks Swaylockians for educating me to fully appreciate what I was seeing. Even with 40 years of semi-regular and regular surfing, it was this last year of Sway’s that inspired my to think beneath the glass, understand the history, get the itch to sculpt. This exhibit is a must see for those who are able to get there.
Beginning with photos from Grannis and Whity Harrison’s personal stash depicting the Thirty’s to modern times…pictures of California Legends. Those pioneers looked incredibly healthy living off the oceans bounty and carrying redwood boards. Even though I too precede wetsuits, their dedication makes me feel unworthy. Then again free beachfront living with free food must have been quite addictive, especially with no crowds in the water.
I found myself transfixed standing in front of Velzy’s block plane…passed to him by George Downing…used on every balsa board from the 50’s to the 90’s. Tools from the hands of Mickey Munoz and Bob Sims creations. I felt Ambrose’s presence whispering to me…Look well…feeeel with your eyes as I looked at his olo’s and wood creations.
Turning I was surrounded by many boards from the hands of local masters there to be touched. My son points out “Dad! A picture of the Duke!” and I look up to realize it is next to a board shaped and ridden by the Duke himself. (albeit cut down and reshaped by another legend who’s name escapes me)
I brought both my sons to feel with there own hands the work and creative force of the man himself. ( when was the last time you held Babe Ruth’s bat?! )
Looking around me I immediately thought of Chipfish and lamented my lack of camera, it was like candy everywhere. There were at least twenty older 50’s to 70’s boards. Including the board Christian Fletcher began the air assault and a “Stingray” like long board shaped by Herbie. ( kind of like a stinger but only wider in the front 40" of the board) Even a fish, twin keeled and ready to fly ( sorry I don’t want to misquote the builder )
Museum docents told me it was ok to take for someone to take all the measurement and pictures they liked. When I have the opportunity to return will post photos, as I am sure other Swaylock members will do.
As a side note the “Indies Trader” Quicksilvers travel boat was tied up beside the museum (the museum itself a large paddle boat at dock) Touring it was fun, just to see what you can do someone pays you to surf and play your way around the world with a boat full of toys. That and it was smaller than I had thought. I believe it ships out this week if you want to see that.
The suggested donation was $5.00 for Adults, $2.00 for kids…Best $10.00 I had spent in a while. I hope those of you that attend enjoy it as much.
I vacillated on going out to my truck, getting a notebook and taking notes as there was sooo much to share. In the end however, I elected to absorb the exhibit as best I could. Hopefully others can share more. ( my 6 and 8 year old did spend 1/2 hour “catching” marlin and sailfish on the simulator complete with plasma screen monitor, giving gaga dad a chance to soak in the surroundings)
Good sufing to you all and you Americans have a safe 4th of July, Gil