Artist rendering of the THELMA BEE at the Annual Blessing of the Fleet.
Biloxi lugger, length=35ft
Built 1946 in Louisiana
Owned by Jack Andrew Gazzo, Sr.
The THELMA BEE was purchased by Jack Andrew Gazzo, Sr. upon his return from service in World War II. The 35-foot wooden hull Biloxi lugger had been in use for charter and pleasure when she was purchased by Gazzo in the late 1940’s. As Jack was born into a family with a strong interest and dedication to the seafood industry, she was converted back into a working vessel. It was during the THELMA BEE’s participation in the 1951 Blessing of the Fleet, that Jack Gazzo received the “Sodality Souvenir Medal” for his fellowship and community efforts. He was soon elected Treasurer of the newly formed seafood workers union but died shortly after this appointment. In 1952, the THELMA BEE ended her service to her dedicated owner, Jack Andrew Gazzo, Sr. and his family.