This sounds like it was an interesting place to visit in 1973.
Click on the images to make them larger and more readable.
Text from a Mandeville Bantam article May 27, 1973:
SHIP'S BELL LOUNGE
If you're looking for a unique atmosphere and friendly service then you should visit the Ship's Bell Lounge at 127 Gerard Street. Lilian and Norman Rack are always ready to provide interesting conversation and tell you about their extensive collection of navigational equipment which includes sextons, telescopes, binoculars, and compasses from all over the world.
In one corner you can even see a complete diving suit, mask and all. Other interesting objects include a whale harpoon and carved whale's teeth. Norman stated that he wanted to stress a family atmosphere and that be personally ushers out anyone who makes the slightest sign of trouble.
Lilian Rack is originally from Denmark where she worked in a number of luxury
hotels as a housekeeper and social manager. She met Norman while he was engaged in a diving operation near Denmark; her position at that time was social manager for the Hotel Codan, one of the best in Denmark.
Their present business has been in existence for only one year, it was formerly known as Alex Band's Lounge. Norman is originally from Toledo, Ohio and has resided in N.O. for 17 years before moving to Mandeville. He has served in the Navy and in the Merchant Marines due to his love for the water and exploring its depths.
Deep sea diving is another of his accomplishments, he has traveled world-wide on some expeditions to locations such as the Middle East, England, Germany, Alaska, and Canada. He recently completed a commercial diving job in 260 feet at the mouth of the Mississippi.
Other jobs include the chlorine barges which sank near Baton Rouge, the Chesapeake Bay Tunnel and the Dry Dock that Hurricane Betsy damaged in New Orleans.
His future plans include the publishing of a diver's handbook when he feels it is completed. The Racks have also added to their accomplishments a beautifully illustrated book about the art of macram'e, entitled "Macram'e, Advanced Technique and Design".
Included in the book are sophisticated macram'e designs and tying techniques plus a unique section on Nautical Fancy Rope Work.
Another of Norman's unusual accomplishments is building ships in bottles which he has been practicing for 25 years. He is planning to publish a book on that very subject when he has enough information and photos compiled.
It would be well worth a visit to the Ship's Bell to simply meet these interesting people.
