History on Tap: Finest Kind: Tales of a Brant Rock Lobsterman

Author and conservationist Sandra Staples-Bortner shares the remarkable story behind her book Finest Kind: Tales of a Brant Rock Lobsterman, inspired by her father, Donal Staples. Raised on his lobster boats and shaped by his stories, Sandra recounts Donal’s journey from joining the Navy at seventeen and serving in the Battle of Okinawa, to returning home to build a life as a lobsterman in the small fishing village of Brant Rock.

As Donal becomes a leader in the local fishing industry, he helps strengthen a close-knit maritime community while raising his family on the water—hauling traps, fishing for food and fun, and passing down the traditions of the sea. His story spans decades of change, culminating during the COVID-19 pandemic, when isolation in a nursing home tested his resilience but never diminished the respect of his peers or the love of his family.

Through personal stories and vivid recollections, this program explores the life of a member of the Greatest Generation and the enduring values of hard work, community, and character — the very definition of being “the finest kind.”

Learn more about Sandra Staples-Bortner, author and daughter of Lobsterman Donal Staples here: https://www.sandrastaplesbortner.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandra.staples.bortner/

Part of our History on Tap series—join us for an evening of local history, conversation, and craft brews.

Admission: $10 per person / $5 for members

Must be 21+ to sample beer; IDs will be checked at the door.

Enjoy craft beer from our sponsor, Cape Cod Beer, along with cheese, crackers, water, and non-alcoholic beer options.

We highly recommend reserving your tickets on our website in advance. Popular events often sell out quickly, and we cannot always accommodate walk-ins. Don’t miss out—plan and secure your spot!