The Barge is scheduled to be towed 150 miles to Waterford's NY State Canal Corporation's graving dock the weekend of May 25th by the Ben Elliott Tugboat owned and operated by Troy's Rob Goldman. The trip is expected to take from 30 to 50 hours.
In preparation of the tow, Barge 2" and 3" Gas Pumps and Generator have been tested. Two other 3" pumps donated and repaired. Below decks of the Barge are being cleared out.
Docking Plan and Preparations are complete to center the 30' X 78' Barge bottom down on the ways behind lock #3 of the NY State Barge Canal. As the water level is lowered, the 79 will settle into place leaving a four foot overhand to allow work on the bow and stern. North Atlantic Shipbuilding & Repair under the direction of Master Shipwright, David Short will begin repairs beginning June 3rd. The refit will recaulk, respike and replace plank damages. Old-Growth Long-Leaf Yellow Pine timbers have been located in a South Carolina forest. The 34' X 4" X 12" barge planks will soon be at the mill. 3000 lbs of "Kydex" 1/8" Thermoplastic Sheathing has been donated to protect the hull once repairs have been made. Numerous supplies on order.
Photo (c)2002 Frank Zimmerman
