As the year comes to a close we are back in the Longshed and continuing to make progress, with restricted numbers of volunteers.
Whilst we wait for delivery of the keel logs we have lofted the design stations of the hull to full-size (that means drawn out full scale plans) and begun making molds to control the shape of the hull whilst it is in build. Although the Anglo-Saxons would not, we think, have used molds, we need to speed up the build to make up for time lost to Covid. It won’t affect the authenticity of the completed ship, nor the sea trials following. And once they are set up on the keel the molds will give an immediate impression of the size of the ship to Longshed visitors. If we are able to continue at pace, then the molds will be removed once the lower half of the planking and framing has been fitted. We will then complete the build using wholly traditional techniques.
Lofting and frames
The midships model continues to be fitted out with three floors – the bottom, central parts of the transverse framing – fitted and about to be fastened up. Who knew that such little things like trenails could be so complicated to make and fit!
Jacq Barnard and Jules Hudson demonstrating the benefits of having a floor in the midships model to test rowing positions
We are producing another oar from the ash received in March. Hopefully this will lead to something of a production line being set up – we are going to need fifty or so in total. There is work for lots of different people here.
Thank you again to all of you who have been able to work with us this year and for the patience and forbearance of those who have not been able to; hopefully, by the Spring we will be able to see a much clearer way forward.
Wishing you all a Happy Christmas
Tim