This program details the history and activity of the American whale fishing industry. Edouard Stackpole, curator and marine historian at Mystic Seaport, CT, describes the size and characteristics of sperm whales and right whales and how they were hunted, killed, and processed. He shows examples of products made from whale oil, in lieu of petroleum, and whale bone, later replaced by light metals and plastics. Photos and films taken aboard the wooden whaleship "Charles W. Morgan" show her last whale hunt, in 1921, including a "Nantucket sleigh ride." The "Morgan," which made 37 voyages in 80 years, was built in 1841 and is now restored at Mystic Seaport. Mr. Stackpole notes that the last whaler to set sail out of New Bedford was the "Wanderer" in 1924, but she wrecked fifteen miles out of port.