If you have ever wanted to name a cannon, you’ll get your chance at Maine’s First Ship’s Annual Dinner on May 8.

Maine’s First Ship is continuing to build a replica of the Virginia, the first vessel built in North America by English colonists. Like virtually every sea-going vessel of the 17th century, the replica will be armed with two swivel guns — small cannons that function like large shotguns — mounted on the rail. The two bronze guns were purchased through a grant from the Salem Van Every Foundation and Tomm Tomlinson. They are currently being cast by Campbell Cannon and Carriage Works of Florida.

Historically guns such as these would have a name or inscription cast into the barrel. Tomlinson has named the first gun “Barbari Odio,” Latin for “Hated by Barbarians.” The name of the second gun is up for grabs, with naming rights auctioned off at the annual dinner. The winning bidder will have the honor of having his or her name, motto or saying permanently cast into one of the guns aboard Maine’s First Ship, to be enjoyed for many decades to come.

Those unable to attend the dinner can mailing a bid to MFS, PO Box 231, Bath Maine 04530 by May 8. To phone in a bid during the auction, call (207) 319-4395 before 5:30 p.m. on May 8. The starting bid is $300.

Because of the need to maintain historical authenticity, there are some stipulations as to the name. It must be a name or phrase that could feasibly have been engraved on a gun of 1607, and are best rendered in Latin. Maine’s First Ship can assist with naming.

Also at the dinner will be featured speaker Hodding Carter, who recently completed this six-week trip, which re-enacted Benedict Arnold’s Revolutionary War 1775 expedition to attack Quebec City.

This year’s annual gala dinner and silent auction will take place at J.R. Maxwell’s in Bath, beginning at 5:30 pm. Tickets are available from the Maine’s First Ship office on Front Street above Maxwell’s, by calling (207) 443-4242, or emailing mfs1@myfairpoint.net. Tickets are $40 each or two for $75. Ticket seekers might also purchase tickets by stopping by Virginia on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.