Help Preserve New Jersey’s Official Tall Ship
About Our Keel Restoration Project
For nearly 100 years, the A.J. Meerwald has carried New Jersey’s working-waterfront story and served as a living classroom for students, families, and visitors.
Today, her keel, the structural backbone of the ship, must be replaced to ensure she can continue sailing safely and carrying her mission into her second century.
Your support will help preserve New Jersey’s Official Tall Ship for generations to come.
Watch Our Campaign Introduction
Executive Director Jessica Yorke shares why replacing the A.J. Meerwald’s keel is one of the most important preservation projects in the ship’s history and how you can help carry her into her second century.
Why the Keel Matters
The keel is the structural backbone of the A.J. Meerwald. Running the length of the vessel, it supports the ship’s weight and provides the strength needed to sail safely.
After nearly 100 years of service, the Meerwald’s keel has reached the point where replacement is necessary. This restoration is not cosmetic—it is essential to preserving the ship, protecting those who sail aboard her, and ensuring she can continue serving as New Jersey’s Official Tall Ship.
Every donation directly supports this once-in-a-generation preservation project.
This is just the beginning. Follow along as we share behind-the-scenes videos, restoration milestones, fundraising progress, and the incredible people helping preserve the A.J. Meerwald.
Help Us Reach Our Goal
Every contribution—large or small—helps preserve the A.J. Meerwald and ensures she can continue serving as New Jersey’s Official Tall Ship for future generations. Your generosity supports the replacement of her historic keel, a once-in-a-generation restoration that will keep this National Historic Landmark sailing, educating, and inspiring for years to come.
Together, we’re preserving more than a vessel—we’re protecting New Jersey’s maritime heritage and the stories she continues to tell.
Support the Bayshore Center at Bivalve
While the keel restoration is our current priority, general donations also help support educational programs, the Delaware Bay Museum, vessel maintenance, and our mission to advance the understanding of the human impact on the aquatic environment through education.
The Bayshore Center at Bivalve is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All eligible contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.