Bad in all the right ways

Yesterday we began pitching around new ideas for the marines in order to find them some other occupation than traditional reenacting. The primary problem with what we consider as traditional reenacting is that the tactics employed, casualties taken etc are not generally in keeping with historical precedent. This issue has been addressed before by other groups, but namely in the interest of improving existing events. My concern was that the marines find a new venue distinctly separate from reenacting that allowed them to open their operation in another hobby or area of interest - in the same way that our sailors have made a reasonable foothold in the sailing and wooden boatbuilding communities.

I've had the idea rolling around in my head for some time that paintball would be the way to go. But even loading and firing one round at a time from conventional paintball guns is nowhere near the procedure for loading and firing a flintlock or caplock musket. But what if our flintlock and caplock muskets could fire paintballs? - and in the same manner they would fire a conventional ball? The conditions could be ideal for an entirely new merge of paintball and reenacting - one in which the capabilities of troops had a direct impact on operations in the field - putting the manuals to the test in a more realistic setting and tactical context.

As the President likes to say "let me be clear." I'm not advocating putting paintballs down the muzzle of your black powder firelocks - but what I am saying is that I am more than willing to encourage our marine leaders to experiment and construct a viable solution to this. The result would be a new genre of experimental archaeology, very much akin to what our sailors are doing with our boat programs and distance cruising in open boats. Very interesting. Keep up the good work guys!

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See what's going on here? Well here's an update!

Yesterday we got some great work done around the Dockyard. We cleared the Launch out of the Framing Bay and got her into the Hold. Now we're reorganizing the shop and laying out to begin lofting the corrected lines for Monomoys No. 2 and 3. The Lofting Bay is likewise setup for the corrected lines being lofted full scale - an ongoing evolution that will take several more days of work to complete. The lofting plan will begin with the layout of the lofting boards, sheets of plywood inscribed with parallel lines several inches apart. The offsets from our computer program, when completed, will be transferred to these sheets and faired, then traced in mylar film - a clear sheet that doesn't stretch or skew in normal conditions. The mylar sheets will then be carefully cut out and used to make up templates for molds, keel, forefoot, stem, heel and sternposts. These will be produced in the Carpenter's Shop and shifted to the Framing Bay, with the exception of the keel, which will be laminated in place.

Also, we plan on building parts for both boats simultaneously. Because the boats were built together, their corrected lines are identical. So we'll be shaping two keels, two stems etc and all at the same time. By the way, it was decided that since we have to replace the keel on No. 3, to do it on No. 2 as well. After all, if there is one thing that we're learning about these boats, it's that they were used HARD and repairs were not always up to snuff. Some of the damage isn't readily apparent until you start really REALLY digging and we don't want any surprises late in the game. So we'll probably end up replacing much of the original fabric in the interest of ensuring safe, reliable operation later.

BT

I'm still fussing with the CAD program to get the corrected lines for the Monomoys. I'll post samples of the 3D renderings etc when complete, but for now, stop poking around my drafting table - they aren't there.

BT

On a completely different note, amidst all the hubbub we are also making preparations for the annual Battle of Great Bridge. The event is a fun and light-hearted rendition of the 1775 battle that pitted colonial forces against the British for the first major engagement in Virginia. The history is very interesting, complete with your typical insane acts of bravery, questionable tactics and predictable outcome. But the event takes place on a small - very small - patch of the original field (as it can be argued) and is attended by about 50 reenactors but thousands of spectators. The scenario is set up with bales of straw and fence sections to represent the various topographical and military features.

I remember when I used to get so excited about these events. And I am excited about this year, though honestly mostly about getting our crew together for underway operations in December. Burning powder just doesn't have the same fascination anymore.

On that note, I should mention some particulars. First, everyone should know that we're the Brits at this one - we play the bad guys! There will undoubtedly be some fun plants in the crowd and plenty of heckling to do - which is usually the purview of the marines. We Sailors will spend our time ashore doing what we do best - chasing down attractive women and hunting down alcoholic beverages. And woe betide the officers that forget our sailorly tendencies, who subsequently end up losing a few along the way!

The event runs from December 3 to December 5, although the first day is mostly setup and prep. This year we will be camping so bring the sub-zero sleeping bags. It should be fairly comfortable so long as we prepare, prepare, prepare. The British camp will be right along the water this year so we're not so isolated from everyone else, and the marines will spend most of their time ashore mixing and mingling. They will setup camp on Friday afternoon and get settled in while we Sailors tend the boat and get her to the site.

Monomoy No. 1 and the 3-pdr are coming with us, so we Sailors should have some fun navigating the small stretch of canal. We need to try and NOT drop the lockmaster's bribe doughnuts in the canal this time around. The marines will be out in full lobsterback gear as well, ready to march off and do that voodoo that they do so well.

The main event proceedings continue over Saturday and Sunday. Although most of us (myself included) will be camping on the field, some may leave and come back. Mustering times are 0800 on Saturday and 0900 on Sunday. And rembmer, the more the merrier, so stay and partake!

Command ashore is in the hands of Joe Sturiale, who will be dressed up as a Lieutenant in the British Marines, while command afloat will rest with LT Glenn Atherton, who will be dressed up as a Royal Navy Lieutenant for the event. Petty Officer Caleb Bryan will play the part of Able Seaman and Coxswain of Monomoy No. 1, and James Filler will do his thing as Sergeant of Marines. Yours trully will be dressed up as well, pulling an oar in the boat as a Boatswain's Mate and chief trouble maker.

And by the way - make sure you tell someone you're planning on attending, if you are. I don't think we're accommodating walk-ups this year.

NNNN

The Sea Service Muskets, and why they no longer represent frustration

For all of our marines, and those sailors who've handled them, we have some very encouraging news regarding the Sea Service Muskets. I have just recieved word from the Commissioner of Supply that the locks have been professionally stripped and overhauled, and that they now spark remarkably well.

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For several months we had noticed that nomatter how well the flints were knapped and seated, or how clean (or dirty!) the muskets were, we had definate ignition problems. And nothing ruins an event for musket-weilding participants faster than pulling the trigger and hearing CLICK instead of BANG.

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As it turns out, the steel (sometimes called a frizzen) becomes softer over time, and requires re-hardening. After 3 years of near continual service, they were no longer as hard, and did not produce the flourish of sparks when struck with the flint. Now re-hardened, they are back in action and sparking like crazy, just as they did when new.

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So, some good news there.

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BT

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Measures are currently being discussed for formation of a Dinghy Squadron. This group would focus around the modern boats belonging to private members and teach the basics of sailing, free of charge. My favorite part is that because the boats are so light, they are FAST! One such boat, my very own Bandit 15 (proud arrogant nod), makes a very fast clip under her main, jib and spinnaker. Not sure what a spinnaker is? Well then you need to make a point of coming out to a Dinghy Squadron event, when that starts.

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Of course, Mr. A is probably out there smirking, knowing his Lasers can still probably kick my butt. This is why the term "ramming speed" was invented for boats such as the Monomoy - and why our regular Boat Squadron (consisting of just one boat at the present) always trumps the dinghies.

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Right now we are still waiting on final board approval to begin operations - legal matters, insurance liability and such.

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BT

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The 25-foot Launch is still being framed up and prepared for planking. If anyone knows where to find good hardwood knees, please contact me.

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NNNN

Storm has passed, now back to business!

Apologies for the communications blackout after the Bay crossing, but I'm back from NYC and ready to roll!

Little has been going on at the Dockyard, with the exception of a lot of packages coming in. In fact, after the Monomoy was cleaned up after Conquer the Chesapeake, everyone kind of took a bit of a break to rest and recouperate. I'd like to think that includes the boat - with a sprung leeboard and a missing oarlock, she needed some time to recover too.

First things first - EVENTS. Our next event is Norfolk HarborFest, this coming Saturday, from 1500 to roughly 2200. The plan is to launch the boat at Harbor Park (where the Tides play) and row over to Nauticus, get out and enjoy the festivities including tall ships, concerts etc, get some attention rowing around, hang out in the harbor for the fireworks that evening and then recover the boat again that evening. Looks to be a fun event, with some opportunity to bring a few friends and family out for boat rides (as space permits). Let me know soonest if you can make it out.

NHS participation in the Blackbeard Pirate Festival, scheduled for July, has been cancelled. This for two reasons, namely 1) funding for this specific event is short, both in what the trustees are willing to allocate and in what the event is willing to donate, and 2) two sizeable donations have been made to facilitate a resurgence of work on the 24-foot launch, a project that has languished for two years. It costs a good deal of money, time and logistical organization to get out for a major event such as the pirate festival, and in this case the board of directors has decided that finances dictate we withdraw. Sorry pirates, maybe next year!

BT

Secondly, MEETINGS. I want to start a regular weekly meeting. We'll either conduct training, work on small maintenance projects or take the boat out, depending on what we need to get done and how many people we have. Also depending on numbers, we may fire up the grill/smoker for some barbecue. Our first meeting will be this Wednesday, 9 June at the NHS Dockyard. Contact me for directions and details.

BT

Another product of this past weekend's board meetings is that the headqarters of the NHS Marines may be moving back to Danville VA. Seems the marines don't like hanging around the tars in the dockyard. Ha! Well, its not final yet, but provided the Logistics Director and Commissioner of Supply can work out the funding and logistics, you folks in Danville will be right in the thick of marine country. I am very much looking forward to sending you all back your mess kits and camping gear- good riddance!

BT

Last note for today is a word about the 24-foot Launch. After languishing for two years "on the stocks" she has been picked up for completion by the end of this year. I'm glad to see the renewed interest, and hope that many of you can join us in the dockyard to get 'er done. For details about the design, see the last blog entry. One thing is sure - I've got dibs on coxswain of that beauty when she hits the water!

That's it for now - more to follow this week as I get back in the saddle.

Will

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60 percent of the time, they work - every time.

In honor of the Marines' recent discovery not only of my blog but that NHS has a dockyard and sailors, I'd like to take a minute to highlight the work of our ever diligent Armorer, Joey Guns. After a four year enlistment in the REAL Marine Corps (hoo rah), Joey turned to the dark side of finance banking. Now, when he's not wearing the suit and tie of a "Senior Vice President" he's wearing the waiter-like apron getup of the NHS Armorer, cleaning and repairing firelocks when they're not in use at events.

Now, anyone who was in Greensboro this last weekend will recall the embarrassing CLICK that was happening WAY too often. That was probably my fault. After the Marines' last outing in Chesapeake, the muskets were stored in the Dockyard where I took it upon myself to do the basic maintenance. And now Joey Guns has to bench strip each piece and clean up for not one but two events of improper maintenance. Sorry guys. But hey, just think of it like Sex Panther Cologne - 60 percent of the time, it works - every time. Yeah.... no.

Hey - when you want a sail made, you call me. When you need a hole in a boat repaired, you call me. When you need to rig a fidded topmast, you call me. No more muskets in THIS Dockyard.... not for a while, or until I have someone to yell at for not having them done and working perfectly.

Good luck, Guns - I look forward to enjoying the product of your labors this July!
Will

Welcome Marines!

So good afternoon, all you Marines who suddenly discovered this weekend that I'm keeping a blog. Welcome, and I hope your necks and backs aren't too sore from your adventures this weekend. For those who missed it, there was a great deal going on this weekend. The NHS marines, dressed as Revolutionary War British Marines, participated in the 229th anniversary reenactment of the Battle of Guilford Courthouse in Greensboro NC. Wait. They did not just participate - they KICKED ASS! Pardon my Anglo Saxon. To all who attended, thanks for your work - you looked great, drilled even better, and made the NHS leadership exceptionally proud. Around the dockyard, we always wonder why we package all the mess gear up to send to North Carolina once a year, and every year the question is answered with aplomb. Well done, gents.

That's well. Now, on to business.

The Monomoy Pulling Boat has been moved up to right outside the lofting bay for final work before we put her back in the water. This week, all interior surfaces will be carefully prepped to recieve paint or varnish, and pending any major complications, we'll see that rolled on next weekend. The following weekend, March 27 & 28, we'll be re-varnishing all the interior wood. That, of course, is an all-hands evolution, so come on out. Our gruelling test sail of the new rig will take place on April 11, after which we'll polish her up and she's ready to go.

Training for Conquer the Chesapeake starts April 24 at Naval Station Norfolk. Remember, if you're planning on making the crossing you must attend either the April 24 OR the May 1 training session. Email me soonest to let me know which you'll be attending so I can reserve your place.

So, another busy week at the shop. Keep calm and carry on, gents, and again - congrats on a really great event!

Will

These are what we call 'collateral' duties...

Here at the dockyard, we have four or five huge crates filled with seemingly random pots and pans, iron pieces, hooks, chains, whips - no those are on my bench - and assorted other hillbilly cooking apparatus. I've tried to explain to volunteers that those are for field messes - to feed the sailors and marines (who up to this point are largely fictional to most volunteers) at events. At the Dockyard, we are not only responsible for the boats and new construction projects but also tents, cooking gear, and any other equipment that doesnt fall into uniforms or weapons - though we also manage guns (shipboard cannon) as well. So for those of you who've been asking why we have tent stakes, timber axes, grappelling hooks, canteens, haversacks, bolts of "non-sail" canvas and racks of colored tent poles, that's why.

Yesterday I began breaking out stores enough to supply the marines at the Battle of Guilford Courthouse coming up this weekend. And as the crates of mess gear started coming open more than a few people asked "how do you expect those guys to eat out of those things?" Good question.

When the pots, most of which are made of tin, were stored last, their coating of tallow was not sufficiently applied. When properly cleaned, coated and crated, they will last for months without maintenance. However, these had not been coated, and had been badly cleaned. I've never had to scrub scale out of pots - until last night. Be assured I will be checking all returned inventory before it comes in - I'm not doing this again.

This is also most people's first exposure to the field issue system of organizational property management, aka the supply system. Everything that NHS owns is carefully documented and tracked. I am proud to say that we can track any item we own, find out where it is and whose responsibility it is to keep it. If it gets lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed it gets documented. Its a remarkably efficient but time consumingly meticulous system. And now you volunteers know the importance of the Superintendant's Ledger on my bench - where we record what comes and goes from the Dockyard.

Registration for marines is currently closed for the Battle of Guilford Courthouse 2010 - the ranks are full and we have no more gear to issue. Sailors, your time will come - besides, there isn't a boat for miles where we're going. But I encourage as many as want to make the trek to come out and see us. It should be a great time.

And all the while, work goes on in the Dockyard. More on that tommorrow.

Will