Western Flyer relics go to auction this week

The upcoming auction of historic maritime items from the "Western Flyer," a fishing boat associated with John Steinbeck, is generating considerable buzz in Berkeley, California. Scheduled for February 13, the auction features four significant relics: a steering wheel, two compasses, and a control shifter, with total estimated values in the tens of thousands. Michael Hemp, acting as an agent for the original salvager Dennis Fry, reflects on the emotional stakes tied to these artifacts, while Fry maintains a focus on their financial potential. The Western Flyer gained fame through Steinbeck's literary work and its historical voyages, particularly the 1940 expedition into the Gulf of California. As the auction draws near, interest is expected to surge not only locally but also among literary enthusiasts and ocean scientists who recognize the cultural value of these items.

The auction will be broadcast live online, allowing broader audiences to witness the proceedings. The results could significantly impact the narrative surrounding the Western Flyer, which has seen a colorful history of restoration and preservation. This event marks a critical juncture for Fry, who hopes to conclude a lengthy saga involving these once-overlooked maritime treasures.