Mathew’s Deck Boat Peggy Marks Her First 100 Years with a Painting by John Barber
Mathews-built deck boat, Peggy, will mark her first 100-years in 2025. As part of the commemoration, Mathews Maritime Foundation has commissioned renowned artist John Barber to depict Peggy at work, off New Point Comfort light. Built by Harry Hudgins in the William West yard, Peggy was named after the daughter of the owner, Walter Burroughs of New Point. Walter and his brother-in-law Raymond Hudgins employed Peggy in the pound net fishery until Raymond’s death in the 1930s. Captain Walter was soon joined by his son Richard and in the 1950s had the boat decked over and shifted into the crab fisheries. In 1946 the bottom was replaced by noted local builder Alton Smith. In 1961 Peggy was sold to Ed Grinnell of New Point and she was re-configured for pound fishing again. Captain Ed would eventually return to crab dredging when that fishery became more profitable and he continued to work Peggy for 40 more years until finally and reluctantly selling her in 2001. Kim and Gretchen Granberry ha...
