| A New Look for an Old Favorite Story and photos courtesy of the Fernandina Pirates Club 
After many years, the most photographed entity on Centre Street has received a much-needed face lift. For 29 years "Peg Leg Pete", a life-sized wooden sculpture of a pirate, has stood vigil in downtown Fernandina Beach. Since arriving on October 13th, 1978, he has become the most photographed personality on Centre Street. Peg Leg was carved in 1978 by Wayne Ervin, an internationally recognized sculptor and graphic artist, as part of the downtown merchants celebration of the revitalization of Centre Street. Some of the merchants who helped make Peg Leg a reality included Robert Lannon, Franz Mitchell, Bob Whitaker and Rosco Moore. Originally placed in front of the Florida Welcome Center at the downtown marina, Peg Leg made his way across the railroad tracks to the old train depot where he still stands today.
Years of weather at the harbor had taken its toll on Pete, and in September of 2007 it looked like he was doomed. The City couldn't spare the funds or manpower to restore the icon. Not wanting to throw in the towel quite yet, several downtown merchants approached a local band of scallywags, The "Fernandina Pirates Club", for help. The Pirates jumped at the chance. After all - Pete is one of their own.
pedestal on Centre Street in November. ___________________________ After about six weeks of intense rehabilitation, led by fellow pirate and project manager George Jernigan, Peg Leg has resumed his rightful place, perched atop a rock at the foot of Centre Street, awaiting the next generation of shutterbugs.
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