History

History and Restoration of Brixham Trawler Pilgrim

The History of Pilgrim

The hull of 1895 Pilgrim was badly hogged but at least she was still afloat. The plans to restore her to sailing condition, quickly escalated from a plan to rebuild her stern to a complete hull re build with new timbers. Here in 2011 she is being towed to Ashley Butlers Boatyard on the River Dart to start the big job.

Pilgrim being towed to Ashley Butler's boat yard for restoration the River Dart.
Pilgrim being towed to Ashley Butler’s boat yard for restoration the River Dart.

Giant Jigsaw Project 

Trawlers were double planked with outer and inner planks. The outer planks were sometimes as thick as 3 inch. The shipwrights start to check out their giant jigsaw project….

Pilgrim sailing trawler - giant jigsaw project.
Pilgrim sailing trawler – giant jigsaw project.

A lot of trees! 

New keel and oak frames going in….you need a lot of oak trees.

New keel and oak frames going in
New keel and oak frames going in

This is going to be a seriously tough ship…

Imagine Steam Bending those hull planks at the bow.
Imagine Steam Bending those hull planks at the bow.

 Deck beams and bulwarks supports – all massive timbers.

Deck beams and bulwarks supports - all massive timbers
Deck beams and bulwarks supports – all massive timbers

The Deck 

As the deck goes in the commissioning skipper gets an idea of the size of his or her command. Gulp.

The deck goes in
The deck goes in

 Launch Day for a big girl –  Pilgrim of Brixham

Launch Day
Launch Day

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