Consuta and Consuta class boats

[TrueBlue]

wandering through a LTTT forum in another place, I came across this thread:-
http://www.canalworld.net/forums/index.php?showtopic=86718&page=2

starting at post 25.

Some information about the method of construction and Saunders boatyard near Byron Land.
(I hope he comes on and expands his vast knowledge of that region of the River).

Well, I found it interesting.....

 

[Outinthedinghy]

Yes chas newens are selling at least one umpire launch apparently due to elfin safety issues. Its a 40 footer and a bit narrow (apparently 6ft) )

I went past Saunders old yard this morning - it really is impressive how its gone back to nature. Apparently there is still some hardware on the bank there but obscured by the willows at this time of year.

I found out that Francis Frith photos are available for viewing online - some really great old pictures of the River on there . francisfrith.com

 

[Outinthedinghy]

I also learned that a beetle is a type of hammer

I'm interested in old boat yards and ferries etc on the River so did some research about it all. And dragged the magnet around a little too.

 

[capnfishy]

Beetle and wedge, used to caulk planking with tarred rope on clinker built vessels and elsewhere.

 

[byron]

The remnants of the Boatyard are still there but it is all silted up now. We had hoped to buy the house and grounds when old Mrs Carpmael died but she left it in Trust to be a nature reserve. She was a peculiar old stick who lived in one room of that huge house (hidden behind the trees) the rest being filled up with junk she had hoarded. She cared nothing for the Saunders history and the thought of re-establishing the boatyard horrified her.

 

[Outinthedinghy]

Consuta is in the pond at Beale Park at the moment. At least I think its consuta as not sure there are any others with a steam funnel ?