Salty the Seahorse got a fresh coat of paint in 2024 for the Mattapoisett Land Trust’s 50th Anniversary. In December 2024 Salty’s old Santa Hat was put, but after being exposed to the winds of many winter storms his hat had become droopy and quite dingy. Local Mattapoisett resident, Mary Dermody, decided to take on the project of getting Salty a new Santa Hat for Christmas 2025. Doing some leg work around the area visiting several canvas places and sail makers, Mary was fortunate to discover that Sperry Sails of Marion had made the original Santa Hat for Salty and they were pleased to work on the project once again. Sperry patterned the new hat directly from the old one, sewing it from marine grade canvas and then attaching all the necessary lines and straps to ensure it will stay securely on top of the Salty’s head, no matter what the winter weather. The new red hat features a classic bright white brim and uses the “buoy” pom-pom from the old hat, which must have been repurposed from the waterfront at the time the first hat was constructed. Inspired by Salty’s new paint job in 2024 Mary Dermody managed the project from concept to completion, to ensure Salty’s new Santa hat was finished in time for it’s December debut. The funds for the new Santa Hat were provided by a generous anonymous donor.