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Historic Ship Faces Snowy Cleanup Challenge
25 Feb
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.
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.
The museum, a 37-acre riverfront property, houses several large and mid-sized ships. Clearing these vessels and the grounds from winter storms is a recurring task. Despite the labor, one worker described the cleanup as beautiful and the day as lovely. The museum planned to reopen with limited exhibits soon, with the Morgan ready for visitors by the weekend, weather permitting.
