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International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots (MMP)
Contact Information700 Maritime Boulevard
Linthicum Heights, MD 21090
Phone: (877) 667-5522
Visit the MMP Website
AbstractThe International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P) had its beginnings in the tragic burning of the steamboat Seawanhaka in New York Harbor on June 28, 1880. The 612-ton, 230-foot side paddle-wheeler, under the command of Capt. Charles P. Smith, suffered an explosion in the boiler room; an event not uncommon in the early days of steam-powered vessels. As flames spread rapidly through the wooden-hulled boat, Capt. Smith was faced with few options in the narrow Hell Gate channel. He stayed at the helm and was burned by the flames while taking the boat aground in shallow waters off the channel where passengers could safely escape the burning vessel. Ultimately, Capt. Smith was recognized for his heroism in handling the situation, but he was first scapegoated. Stated Frank O. Braynard, maritime historian and curator of the American Merchant Marine Museum at Kings Point, NY, "Eventually he was cleared of any wrongdoing, but his shabby treatment, especially since the evidence indicated that he had risked his life, so outraged his colleagues, other pilots and captains that they formed a committee. That committee was the genesis of the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots."
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