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Sure, there were pirates in the Caribbean, but the Great Lakes had them too Michigan Radio's M I C urious project is a news experiment where we investigate questions submitted by the public about our state and its people. As part

The real Popeye

☞Today in History -- On today’s date 151 years ago, Monday, January 27, 1868, an obscure Polish-American bartender & general laborer by the name of Frank “Rocky” Fiegel (1868-1947) was born in Poland. Late in his life, Rocky Fiegel became somewhat famous as the real-life inspiration for E. C. Segar’s ever-popular cartoon character Popeye The Sailor.

☞According to Wikipedia:
Local folklore in Chester, Illinois, Segar's hometown, claims that Frank “Rocky” Fiegel was the real-life inspiration for the character Popeye. He had a prominent chin, sinewy physique, characteristic pipe, & a propensity & agile skill for fist-fighting. Fiegel died on March 24, 1947 never having married. His gravestone has the image of Popeye engraved on it. The town of Chester erected a statue of Popeye in Fiegel’s honor, which still stands today.

☞The undated photograph depicts the visage or Rocky Fiegel, the real-life Popeye the Sailor Man.

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TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE® Great Lakes 2019 – Series Events on Tall Ships Network TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE® is an annual series organised by Tall Ships America to promote the sail training experience, foster international cultural exchange and keep alive the rich maritime heritage represented by the tall ships community.