We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of those individuals who have very graciously provided time, money, talent and energy to make the Fleet Society an ongoing success. During this past year, we have seen our membership climb to 69 (up 10 from last year). Also, we have seen our viewership increase substantially due in large measure to ongoing upgrades to the website which is managed by our IT guy, Craig Grella.
Also this year we have concluded our first publication which will be finalized in the spring of 2017. The book will be available as we open our 2nd International Conference in St. Augustine, Florida in March. Our archival research continues and we have reached out to academics in Cuba who have much to offer regarding new insight into the history of the 1715 Fleet. The Fleet Society has established relationships with a number of other historical organizations such as the St. Augustine Historical Society which, along with the Fleet Society, will be co-hosting the 2nd International Conference.
At the conclusion of our Conference in St. Augustine, work will begin on our 3rd International Conference which is currently scheduled to take place in 2020 in Havana, Cuba. It is hoped that we will continue to develop contacts in that country to help make arrangements for our 2020 Conference.
So, it would seem, that 2017 will be a banner year for the Historical Society with the introduction of its first publication and with the 2nd International Conference. As our membership ranks grow and our reputation gathers momentum, we look forward to another fruitful year.
We hope that 2017 will bring good health, good luck, and good fortune to all who share our passion about the 1715 Fleet, its history and its place in history.
Happy New Year from the Directors of the 1715 Fleet Society!
Ben Costello
Ernie Richards
Phil Flemming
