Since 1978 I have been fortunate to sail wooden boats. In 2006 I set out to find a Drascombe Longboat Cruiser for single-handed expedition sailing. This is the continuing story of how it came to be, our adventures, notes on the maritime world and other things I don't want to forget...


Thursday, December 29, 2016

A Carving Chisel

I finished the inventory of what I lost last night and sent it along to the insurance adjuster. Quotes on clearing and rebuilding are also being finished and submitted. I am hoping for some help from insurance but not at all sure how much... or when.

Annie's spars are well charred and the sails, sheets and halyards are completely gone. There is metal gear- furling swivel, tangs, wire shrouds, mast band and more- that is intact but need replacing. A house fire is around 1100 degrees F. and I do not trust the metals strength. After taking measurements I sawed the mast ends off and there is a lot of good eastern red spruce still inside. It may be possible to get a smaller spar out.

I spent a good amount of time yesterday digging through the debris to remember things for the inventory and found a few pieces intact. Cleaned up a carving gouge that could still 'still plow a row'. It felt like a start and that's a good feeling.




The only discernible remnant of a set of tanbark sails.


Masthead



Salvageable spruce



 
A bucket of found objects




4 comments:

  1. It must be heart breaking to go through an experience such as this. I hope you get it sorted soon.

    All the very best for 2017 - 'Hold Fast' - good saying.

    - Alden Smith New Zealand

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  2. I just learned of the fire from the Old Bay Club gang - terrible loss. I remember well being aboard Annie on the Pungo and Pamlico. She was a marvel of thoughtful design; you had everything at hand and no motion was wasted. I hope the insurance people are good to you and that you soon have "Annie II." John Shinaberger

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    Replies
    1. Thank you for thoughts John. I'm happy to say that it was Annie's spars, sails and rigging. She is safe in Mathews VA. Look forward to sailing with you again some day.

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