There was something rotting in Goodland — but not anymore! The boat that sits on dry land across the street from Goodland’s tiny post office, and for 40 years has prettily marked the west entrance to MarGood Harbor Park, was in foul shape. It was time to save it or scrap it.

Originally painted in 1987 by former resident Kay Howe (McComber) with splashy waves and lettering advertising MarGood Harbor Resort, Cottages, RVs & Marina, the boat was a playful source of identity for the community. Later, other Goodland treasures Jenny Branston and the late Denise Santos refreshed it once (both known for constantly refreshing, retouching, or restoring something somewhere in the Village!)

But time has not been kind to this boat. Multiple hurricanes, occasional floods, and the relentless Florida sun had faded the paint to a whisper. The hull, long-neglected, slowly filled with dirt and debris. It even had a tree growing from it. The pretty boat had become a sad eyesore.

Enter the Spirit of Goodland

First up: Jim Seegers, a thoroughly determined man who values proper maintenance. Seegers spoke with community members several times over the last few years about cleaning it up, received lots of agreement, but not much action. Recently he asked resident artist Tara O’Neill if she would be willing to refresh the paint. O’Neill was willing, if only he could get it emptied and cleaned.

Next up: Jim Freeman, Seegers’ neighbor & pal. Freeman helped Seegers gather shovels, 8 large waste buckets, a pressure-washer and a battery of assorted tools. Then the 2 Jims laid their shoulders to task and, after 2 days, filled & hauled away every bucket, sprayed, scraped & cleaned every surface, and called O’Neill again. O’Neill arrived the very next day and proceeded to bring the faded paint job back to glory.

Now arrives Mary Jo Chaput, who, just stopping to get her mail, saw the activity and went directly home to change into paint clothes. While O’Neill worked on the waves & lettering, and Seegers painted the inside & topside, Chaput hit the dirt, literally, down on the ground and repainted the boat’s bottom.

Today the S.S. MarGood is once again a bright salute to Goodland’s past, and well-prepared for the future. Four people, four days, for love, for Goodland. Stop by and have a look!

You may also be interested in MarGood Park Reopens or Goodland’s Iconic Welcome Sign Is Back.