Nina, Pinta Replicas Dock At Port Of Muskogee

In 1492, Columbus sailed the ocean blue. That little rhyme makes it easy to remember an important time in American history.

Now, a chance to learn more about life on the ocean in the 15th century is waiting for us at the Port of Muskogee.

Two replicas of Christopher Columbus' three ships, the Nina and the Pinta, are at Three Forks Harbor at the Port of Muskogee. They'll be there for almost two weeks.

Stephen Spanger is captain of the Nina. He's been at it for about six years and loves it.

"We travel practically year round all over the country," Spanger said.

This time of year they are sailing the inland river system, like the Arkansas River.

"We stopped in Little Rock, we stopped in Ft. Smith, now we are here at the Port of Muskogee," Spanger said.

He said most people who come aboard are surprised how small the ships are.

In a typical year they will be through the Gulf, up the east coast, across the Erie Canal, into the Great Lakes and down through the navigable river system.

The visit provides students a chance to imagine what life was like 500 years ago out on the ocean.

For the crew members who sail the ships today, it's a chance to learn a bit of history.

The ships will be in Muskogee through Sunday the 16th. They're open every day for self-guided tours from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

You can get more information by calling 787-672-2152, emailing columfnd@gmail.com or by visiting their website.

11/4/2014 Related Story: The Pinta And The Nina Come To Muskogee