US Schooner Independence was the first vessel constructed in SA, back in 1803 by visiting American sealers before there was even a colony of SA. Rebuild Independence Group (RIG) aims to rebuild her.

So if you're interested in historical ship building, read on:

blog.arribasail.com/2014/09/rebuild-independence-update.html

PS We're looking for volunteers.

cisco said..
This looks like a great project scruzin.

How long and how many tonnnes?? Pity the gypsum wasn't oakum. It goes with the hemp.

Yes we're all REALLY looking forward to the construction phase, first the boat shed, and then the vessel itself.

So know one really knows exactly the design the original Independence, but we believe it was 45' LOA and displaced 35 tons. We'll be modeling it on similar New England sailing schooners from that era. Of course, the new Independence will need to be to survey and will need an engine, since we plan to offer tourist cruises one day.

BTW, another historical tidbit. Gypsum was transported from American River to Port Adelaide in small sailing ketches well into the 1900s.