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The history and the restoration of ARGONAUT, a triple headsail, gaff topsail sloop designed and built by Charlie Sayles of Nantucket, are both extensive. Many of you may remember Charlie as a well know marine historian, whose photo collection of a bygone era in New England shipbuilding has graced the pages of many notable marine publications. ARGONAUT has been a familiar sight in Nantucket for many years and Charlie's family has seen fit to have ARGONAUT returned to her former glory. She once again is plying the water of historic Nantucket. ARGONAUT's restoration included a new full length keel of white oak, a complete reframing, many new plank sections of Atlantic white cedar, new fir sheer clamps and deck shelf, new transom, deck beams, new fir decks, new coach house and interior along with the installation of a new 4 cylinder Gray Marine Sea Scout. In the spirit of a traditional restoration, every detail of her former self was carefully documented and recreated. Of note was Charlie's original intention to build a 20' Catboat for scalloping and fishing around Nantucket Harbor during the depression days. As times improved and commissions for several models rolled in (as the story goes) Charlie's vision of the boat changed. Six to eight feet were added as evidenced by the change in planking material from cedar to mahogany and the centerboard trunk was filled in. Approximately 10" of draft was added along with bulwarks, taff rail, flush deck, and bow sprit to give her that old fisherman's appearance. |
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