A F/V Lily Jean benefit auction, presented by Cape Ann Auction, is offering an eclectic mix of items ranging from artworks to maritime ephemera and even jewelry.
The auction, to benefit the families of the seven crew who died at sea when the Lily Jean sank Jan. 30, is now online and bidding begins Wednesday, March 25, at bid.capeannauction.com.
A live preview will be held 3-7 p.m. Wednesday at Cape Ann Auction at 159 Maplewood Ave. in Gloucester, the former Linsky’s service station. Details about how to register to bid may be found at capeannauction.com. Bidding ends April 1 at 7 p.m.
“Like so many in our community shaken by this tragedy, we’ve been searching for meaningful ways to help. At Cape Ann Auction, the strongest way we can contribute is by doing what we do best,” auctioneer Walt Kolenda said. “Our staff was inspired by others who started doing things to support the families. We know how to raise funds. We’re an auction house, and we had some items on hand that we thought would be a great fit.”
The staff also put out an appeal and people quickly responded, donating more items for the auction.
All proceeds go directly to the nonprofit F/V Lily Jean Fund, a 501(c) organization created to support the families of the crew. All payments for lots won from the auction will be made by check directly to the F/V Lily Jean Fund.
Kolenda noted an item that may be of special interest, a Man-at-the-Wheel etching, signed by Leonard Craske (1878-1950), the sculptor of the iconic statue at the Fishermen’s Memorial at Gloucester Harbor.
Other highlights are artworks by noted artists such as Parker Perkins, Tom Nicholas, TM Nicholas, John Terelak, Charlie Movalli, Robert Gruppe and George Van Hook.
The more than 50 lots include antiques, books, Gloucester ephemera, small furniture, a marcasite octopus brooch, an abalone penguin brooch, and a boat model, among other maritime treasures and collectibles.