Shrimp boat Evan Michael approaches the blessing boat, May 2, 1999. Photo: Larry Morrisey |
Biloxi, Mississippi's Blessing of the Fleet
A ceremonial blessing, given by a local
Catholic priest, marks the beginning of the shrimp fishing
season. Even though it had its origins in ancient times in
Europe, the first Blessing of the Fleet in the Biloxi Bay was
given in 1929, and now takes place annually in a colorful
procession in the Mississippi Sound. The ceremony begins with
the dropping of an evergreen wreath into the Sound in
remembrance of fishermen who have been lost at sea. Then a
procession of more than 30 shrimp boats files past the
anchored "Blessing Boat" where the officiating priest stands,
sprinkling holy water on each of the boats and giving a
blessing for each one, asking a safe and prosperous fishing
season.
Other events have been added, including the Great
Biloxi Schooner Race and the Shrimp Festival, featuring a cook-off
and dinner, dance, and coronation of the Shrimp King and Queen. The
Shrimp King and Queen are crowned at the Shrimp Festival and join
the priest as he conducts the Blessing of the Fleet. St. Michael's
Catholic Church has been the central sponsor of the Blessing
ceremony through the years. Its architecture reflects the town's
fishing heritage: a scalloped-shaped roof resembles a huge clam
shell, and its stained glass windows depict the apostles as
fisherman.
Shrimp and oyster fisherman were originally largely
central European immigrants; since the 1980's, most have been
Vietnamese. While initially working in the canning plants, many of
these immigrants bought their own boats and began harvesting shrimp
and oysters from the Mississippi Sound. The 70th annual Blessing of
the Fleet took place on Sunday, May 2, 1999. It has become a
celebration of the industry that brought thousands of workers to
the area in the late 19th century and helped change Biloxi from a
quiet resort town to a thriving industrial center.
The project is documented by a six-page report,
promotional flyers, information on St. Michael's Catholic Church,
four black-and-white photographs, and eight color slides.
Originally submitted by: Trent Lott,Senator.
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