The Full Story
About
Welcome to the official website of Jose Mello, master boat builder. This site is dedicated to showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship and legacy of a true master of the sea.
Jose Mello's passion for boat building began in his hometown of Pico, Azores, where he learned the art of building boats from his father, grandfather, and brother. Over the years, he honed his skills and became a sought-after boat builder, designing and commissioning builds for clients all over the world.
Mission
Welcome to the official website of the Pico Maritime Museum.
Our Mission is to preserve the maritime heritage
and pay homage to the Master designers and boat builders
of Santo Amaro Pico Azores
The museum proprietor Master Shipwright Jose Silva Melo, recognized the importance of historical preservation while participating in the Rhode Island Historical Preservation Society-Folk/Traditional Arts Apprenticeship program. During his tenure in this program, it became apparent that his homeland needed to preserve its maritime history. We aim to showcase the rich maritime culture heritage, skills, techniques and the importance to the maritime industry from the past to its present. Here we share "the dream of Master Jose Silva Melo, known as "The Man before His Time"
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Vision
Our vision is to share the accomplishments and contributions to the Azorean Maritime Heritage by the Master Boatbuilders and Nautical Designers from the parish of Santo Amaro.
We aim to showcase the rich maritime cultural heritage, skills, techniques and the importance to the maritime industry from the past to it's present.
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Our vision is to provide a platform to share the fascinating history of boat building and maritime traditions, as well as to share their stories and experiences.
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The Man Before His Time
and his dream
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Here we share "the dream of Master Jose Silva Melo, known as "A Man before His Time". The dream came to fruition with the establishment of the Maritime Museum founded in the original boat yard of Mestre Manuel Melo and Sons Boat Builders in Santo Amaro Pico.
"The dream" was to pay homage to his father Mestre Manuel Joaquim Melo and all Master Boatbuilders of Santo Amaro Pico.
In 2010, the doors opened to visitors, with the sole purpose to share the works of Master Jose Melo and share the stories of each of these beautiful vessels.
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We invite you to browse our collection of artifacts and exhibits, and to learn more about the history and culture from this small parish, known as "The Land of the Boats" "Terra dos Barcos".
Whether you are a seasoned sailor or a curious beginner, there is something here for everyone.
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Thank you for your interest in the Pico Maritime Museum, and hope you enjoy your visit to our website.
