Niels Jannasch facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Niels Windekilde Jannasch
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| Born | July 5, 1924 Holzminden, Germany
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| Died | November 9, 2001 (aged 77) Seabright, Nova Scotia
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| Occupation | Sailor, marine historian |
| Known for | Founding director of the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic |
| Spouse(s) | Barbara Dierig |
Niels Windekilde Jannasch was a German-Canadian sailor and historian. He is famous for starting the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. He was born on July 5, 1924, and passed away on November 9, 2001.
Early Life and Sailing Adventures
Niels Jannasch was born in Holzminden, Germany. During the Second World War, he served in the German navy. After the war, he worked on merchant ships. He sailed under Finnish and German flags.
One of his most famous voyages was on the Passat. This was a large ship with four masts. He was the ship's carpenter during its last trip carrying grain. Later, when the Passat became a training ship, he returned as the bosun. A bosun is a senior crew member who helps manage the deck crew.
In 1952, Niels married Barbara Dierig. They moved to Halifax, Nova Scotia, in Canada.
Founding the Maritime Museum
In 1959, Niels Jannasch became the first director of the Maritime Museum of Canada. He worked hard to help the museum grow. He made many plans for its future.
Finally, in 1981, the museum moved to a large spot by the water. It was then renamed the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. This museum helps people learn about ships, the ocean, and Canada's sea history.
Later Life and Legacy
Niels Jannasch retired in 1985. But he did not stop working with the sea. He continued to sail and share his knowledge of marine history. He helped start the Canadian Nautical Research Society. This group studies the history of ships and sailing in Canada.
Niels was known for his deep knowledge. He helped many groups that preserve history. People called him "an icon of the maritime history fraternity in Canada and abroad." This means he was a very important person in the world of sea history.
In 1991, he received the Order of Canada. This is a high honour given to Canadians who have made a big difference. He earned it for his work as a scholar and for sharing history with the public.
Niels Jannasch passed away at his home in Seabright, Nova Scotia, on November 9, 2001. He is remembered in several ways. A replica sailing boat is named Windekilde after him. Also, the main library at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is called the Niels Jannasch Library.
