Restoration Project Reaches Milestone at Maritime Museum

In the boat-building business, the placing of the final plank is an historic milestone that marks the point at which a vessel can actually float.

On Friday, Oct. 28, at 11 a.m., visitors and staff from the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic will celebrate just such an occasion when the final plank is placed on the museum's current project, rebuilding the 1946 S-Class Sloop, Valkyrie.

"During the course of a boat-building project, there are two occasions when boat builders throw down their tools, step back, and take stock of the work they've done," said Eamonn Doorly, the museum's boat builder. "Obviously, one such occasion is the boat's completion and launch, but the other is the final plank."

Mr. Doorly said the placing of the final plank is considered a momentous event because the hull becomes fully formed, marking "the point when the boat truly becomes a boat."

Mr. Doorly said the ritual accompanying the event is often dubbed the Whisky or Rum Plank Ceremony. "Traditionally, the owner of the boat or boatyard would provide a little something to make the occasion festive, but not too raucous."

Valkyrie, is a 29-foot sloop, designed and built by the late David Stevens of Second Peninsula, Lunenburg Co. During his career, Mr. Stevens established an international reputation for his boat designs and craftsmanship.

"He was such a prolific boat builder," said Mr. Doorly. "His designs were a perfect blend of function and beauty."

When Valkyrie was donated to the museum it was in poor condition. The museum carefully gathered all the documents regarding the vessel's original materials and construction and, thanks to Mr. Doorly's expertise, completely rebuilt the Valkyrie as close to original specifications as practical.

The next phase of the project involves building and attaching the boat's deck. If everything goes according to schedule, Valkyrie is expected to be launched in the summer of 2006.

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is located at 1675 Lower Water St. in Halifax.