If Walls Could Talk... Season 8 Episode 4 A Nautical History
- October 28, 2002
- 21 min
If Walls Could Talk is a popular television series that explores the history of houses and buildings through the stories that lie within their walls. In season 8, episode 4, called "A Nautical History," viewers are taken on a journey through a house on the coast of Maine that's brimming with stories of maritime history.
The episode begins with a tour of the house, which is a testament to the owner's love of everything nautical. Every room is filled with artifacts and memorabilia, from the intricate model ships in the living room to the vintage fishing gear in the basement. The host of the show, Clint Harp, is immediately intrigued by the rich history of the house and its connection to the sea.
The first stop on the tour is the attic, where homeowners often store forgotten objects. Here, Clint uncovers a treasure trove of old newspapers, including several from the early 1800s that focus on maritime commerce. He also discovers several handwritten journals that reveal the everyday lives of the sailors who worked the waters around Maine. The journals paint a vivid picture of what life was like on board a ship in the 19th century, and Clint is excited to share these hidden pieces of history with the viewers.
Next, Clint heads to the basement to explore the fishing gear that the owner has collected over the years. He learns that the house was once owned by a lobster fisherman who supported his family by selling his catch to local restaurants. The basement is filled with traps, nets, and other equipment that were used to haul in lobsters and other seafood. Clint also gets a lesson in repairing lobster traps from a local fisherman, who explains the intricacies of the design and how the gear differs depending on the target catch.
One of the most fascinating parts of the episode is when the homeowner takes Clint on a tour of the town, pointing out historic landmarks such as the old shipyards and wharfs where boats were built and repaired. Clint learns that the town has a deep connection with the sea, and that many of the houses in the area were once home to sailors and fishermen who worked the waters off the coast of Maine. The episode really brings to life how the history of this house and its contents are connected to a larger story of the town.
Throughout the episode, Clint also interviews local historians and experts who help him understand the significance of the objects found in the house. He learns about the importance of the shipping industry in the 1800s, as well as the daily life of fishermen and their families. Each visitor offers new insights into the stories that lie hidden within the walls of the house, providing an in-depth look at how the nautical history of the area has helped shape the community.
Overall, If Walls Could Talk season 8, episode 4, "A Nautical History" is a fascinating exploration of a house that's bursting with stories of Maine's maritime past. From the old newspapers in the attic to the fishing gear in the basement, each object tells a tale of life at sea and the people who made their living on the water. The show provides a unique insight into the history of the town and how it's been shaped by the sea, making for an engaging and educational viewing experience.