Gov. Signs Bill Naming State's Official Flagship

The 73-year-old vessel served the Western Union Telegraph Company for 35 years, according to reports

Florida Gov. Rick Scott signed a bill Friday naming the state’s official flagship.

Assembled in Key West, the 73-year-old schooner served the Western Union Telegraph Company for 35 years, according to a release by the Florida Keys News Bureau.

The bill passed unanimously in both the Senate and the House, officials said.

The vessel was launched in 1939 and maritime historians say it was the last tall ship built in Key West. The vessel may also be the world’s last surviving cable ship, they said.

The Western Union schooner underwent a three-year, $1.25 million restoration and re-launched last year, the release said.

The bill will take effect July 1.
 

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