The Mayflower and Her Log; July 15, 1620-May 6, 1621 — Volume 2 by Azel Ames
page 39 of 54 (72%)
page 39 of 54 (72%)
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be some considerable variance from the description given, in applying
these data to a ship of 60 tons greater measurement (i.e. of 180 tons), goes without saying, though the changes would appear more largely in the hull dimensions than in the rigging. That the description given, and its expression in the model depicted, present, with considerable fidelity, a ship of the MAY-FLOWER'S class arid type, in her day,--though of sixty tons less register, and amenable to changes otherwise,--is altogether probable, and taken together, they afford a fairly accurate idea of the general appearance of such a craft. In addition to mention of the enlargements which the increased tonnage certainly entails, the following features of the description seem to call for remark. It is doubtful whether the vessels of this class had "open bulwarks to the main [spar] deck," or "a succession of three quarter-decks or poops." Many models and prints of ships of that period and class show but two. It is probable that if the jib was absent, as Captain Collins believes (though it was evidently in use upon some of the pinnaces and shallops of the time, and its utility therefore appreciated), there was a small squaresail on a "dandy" mast on the bowsprit, and very possibly the "sprit" or "water-sail" he describes. The length of the vessel as given by Captain Collins, as well as her beam, being based on a measurement of but 120 tons, are both doubtless less than they should be, the depth probably also varying slightly, though there would very likely be but few and slight departures otherwise from his proximate figures. The long- boat would be more likely to be lashed across the hatch amidships than stowed on the port side of the deck, unless in use for stowage purposes, as previously suggested. Captain Collins very interestingly notes in a letter to the author, concerning the measurements indicated by his model: |
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