Why did shipyard workers use rubber shovels on the Charles W. Morgan?

Rubber and plastic shovels were used to carefully clear snow from the historic wooden boats, avoiding damage to the decks and sensitive materials.

What is done after clearing snow from wooden boat decks?

After snow removal, rock salt is scattered on the decks to prevent rot caused by fresh meltwater and to help preserve the wooden structures.

How are historic wooden ships preserved from snow and ice?

Preservation involves gentle snow removal with non-metal tools and applying salt to the decks to protect the wood from fresh water damage.

Home / Weather / Historic Ship Faces Snowy Cleanup Challenge

Historic Ship Faces Snowy Cleanup Challenge

25 Feb

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Summary

Shipyard workers used rubber shovels to clear snow from historic wooden boats.
Salt water is preferred over fresh meltwater to prevent wood rot.
Clearing snow from the 113-foot Charles W. Morgan is an arduous task.

Historic Ship Faces Snowy Cleanup Challenge

Shipyard crews at the Mystic Seaport Museum carefully cleared 2 feet of snow from historic wooden vessels, including the 113-foot Charles W. Morgan. Workers exclusively used rubber and plastic shovels to prevent damage to the decks and the ships' historically accurate materials. This delicate operation was necessary because metal tools could harm the wood and its sealing compounds.

Following the snow removal, rock salt was applied to the decks. This measure helps neutralize any remaining fresh water from melting snow, which can cause rot in the wooden structures. Museum officials explained that wooden boats are better preserved with salt water, a practice that has been used for generations.