THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1997, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Monday, January 27, 1997 TAG: 9701250007
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A10 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: 26 lines
The story in the Jan. 17 Pilot about Nauticus interested me quite a lot. I am, however, a bit puzzled by the lack of commentary on what was to me obvious on my first and only visit to the facility two years ago.
My impression as a then 50-year-old male unaccompanied by children was that nothing was planned for my interests. As a longtime Peninsula resident, I am well-acquainted with The Mariner's Museum, having spent many a Sunday afternoon there as a kid entranced by the ship models and fascinating exhibits. Nauticus lacked any sense of verisimilitude.
Furthermore, the exhibits and hands-on activities seemingly had been planned for the 10-to-12-year-old mind-set. In less than two hours, I was able to explore the entire plant. The only engaging display concerned the 1907 Jamestown Exposition, something I never knew existed beforehand. Otherwise, it was a total bore! My companion summed up our feelings quite nicely: ``There's nothing here for us.'' I've often wondered how many other visitors were similarly disappointed.
GUY HAYDEN
Hampton, Jan. 17, 1997