At least two online fundraisers have been launched to try to raise money to buy a Halifax icon.
Ambassatours Gray Line has announced it will be selling Theodore Tugboat.
“We’ve had many wonderful years as Theodore’s owner, but due to the current circumstances, we’re now seeking new owners for him,” said a statement from the company’s CEO, Dennis Campbell.
“We’re committed to working really hard in the coming weeks and months to ensure that Theodore goes to a good home as he embarks on his new journey.”
The passenger vessel with a bright yellow smiling face and red ball cap has a price tag of $495,000.
The ‘That’s OUR Tugboat‘ GoFundMe page describes Theodore as an “amazing ambassador” for Halifax.
“I don’t know if this is the most important issue, but I just feel like we all need a win, and that we could buy a tugboat,” says the fundraiser’s organizers.
“Let’s just come together, buy this boat, and feel like we actually had a good day during this abomination of a year.”
GoFundMe’s ‘We Buy Theodore Tugboat‘ page says the vessel plays a vital role in our culture.
“This money will go towards his purchase and giving him a proper permanent home here in the Halifax harbour,” the post says.
The organizer says any extra cash will go towards maintenance, and if the fundraiser falls short of its goal, the money will finance future waterfront projects.
Theodore Tugboat is based on a popular children’s show which aired on CBC in Canada and PBS in the United States.
