Historic ship is moved for first time in 20 years
A historic Westcountry ship has finally been moved onto dry land after being damaged by flooding last month.
The Garlandstone was dragged from the dock to the slipway at Morwellham Quay last week – the first time she has been moved in 20 years.
The South Devon visitor attraction flooded twice in December 2012, with the second flood high enough to be added to the flood levels on the wall of the manager's office.
It damaged some of the planks along Garlandstone's hull, resulting in her sinking as the flood rose over the decks.
Are you nervous about public speaking or presenting ? I can help you become both confident and competent. For June I'm offering 60 minute coaching sessions for just £45 - Trevor Lee 07785 390717
Terms: Offer available to private individuals and businesses throughout June 2013.
Contact: 01326 330668
Valid until: Sunday, June 30 2013
A team of boat builders, along with staff from Morwellham Quay were up before dawn last Monday to move the ship from the dock to the slipway. As the tide went out supporting beams were added to keep the boat upright.
The Garlandstone was the last wooden merchant sailing vessel to be built in southern England during the early 20th century. Made of timber from the Cotehele estate, she took around six years to build and was not finished and ready for sea until 1909. In August 1943 all sixty-four shares in the Garlandstone were bought by Braunton man Alfred Parkhouse – a member of a well-known North Devon coastal sailing vessel owning family.
Simon Lister, owner of Morwellham Quay, said: "The ship is historically important. It was the last one of its kind ever built. But the wooden design means it can rot and die. She's a big old boat and it took 12 people to move it.
"The decision on the ship's future is on-going – it is very expensive to sort out."
Staff members are reviewing their options for the repair and preservation of the historic vessel before they take a decision on its future.
It was hoped that a restoration project would be mounted by the owners of Morwellham Quay, who acquired the site in 2010.
Comments