Welcome
The purpose of this blog is to document the construction of a new batteau and the execution of our ambitious plan to retrace the intended James River and Kanawah Canal line. We are undertaking this task in commemoration of the Bi-Centennial of Chief Justice John Marshall's 1812 river survey, which explored a critical transportion corridor still in use today. This is our tribute to the bold men whose steadfast resolve to establish commercial links across the rugged and unforgiving Appalachian Mountains helped make this Nation what it is today.
Please Visit:
www.vacanals.org for more information regarding the James River Batteau Festival and the Virginia Canals & Navigations Society. Without these institutions, this expedition would not be possible.Categories
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Monthly Archives: March 2012
Planking Complete
Over the last week and a half the crew has been working long hours to finish planking the boat. Saturday afternoon we nailed up the king plank, and the boat looks fantastic. With the skin on the boat, we have … Continue reading
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National Geographic Young Explorers Grant
Over the last few months we have been slowly gaining credibility and support with various gear sponsorships and financial contributions. Today, we received word that we are the recipients of a generous National Geographic Young Explorers Grant. Wesley Andrews … Continue reading
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Tagged Expedition, Explorers, National Geographic, Young Explorers Grant
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Nose Cones Complete
With the nose cones built, we have completed the most difficult part of the construction process. Planing the stem and rib so the boards sit flush, cutting the joint angles, and ripping the seams so that the joints are flush … Continue reading
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Exofficio and Red Ledge Sponsorship, Balcony Scouting, and New River logistics
This has been a huge week for the Marshall Expedition. In addition to beginning construction on nose cones we have been very blessed to receive gear sponsorship, financial support, and logistical backing. First off we would like to extend a … Continue reading
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Nose Cones Get Started
With the cap rails nailed into place, the next step is to build the nose cones. Nose cones are arguably both the most difficult part of a batteau to build, and the most critical to its success. Essentially, the … Continue reading
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Tagged batteau, boat building, nose cone, pre drill, rib, stem
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