Only in Ireland is it possible to walk into a boatyard and say, "I'm building a medieval boat, and I want you to build the frame. I'll cover it with ox hides myself." Tim Severin went to the Crosshaven boatyard, were it was said that they preferred never to build two boats in the same style, because it was "too dull." This was the place where the Irish lifeboats were sent for rehauling. This was also the place where Sir Francis Chichester build his record-breaking Gypsy Moth V. Pat Lake was the head shipwright, and he helped build it himself. They used ash for the boat frame and stringers, and heart of oak for the double gunwales. Pat Lake didn't like the choice of ash, because it rots if you keep wetting it and it keeps drying. But Tim was certain that it needed to be ash. He was lucky and found Glennon's timber yard, a family business. Paddy Glennon ran the yard, supported by the Glennon family. He found the right trees for Brendan, and gave them to the project. The boat was built gunwales first, finishing with the keel. He experimented with different knots, and managed to find one that worked. He and his friend, George, with a little help at times from other people, tied the whole frame together with leather thongs. No metal was used in fastening the frame.
Next part soon!
Bell
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