Joe,
I don't know where it started? the fishing fleets used it in the days
before radio. I think the Tea Run Skippers used it as well as the
Coastal Traders. All before radio. Not many had a knowledge of
Semaphore.
A simple, friendly wave; everyone was aware of what it was. " I'm OK,
how are you?' Made sense tnen,makes sense now.
http://community.webtv.net/tassail/ThomPage
http://community.webtv.net/tassail/ILLDRINKTOTHAT
http://community.webtv.net/tassail/IDONTFEELGOOD