3-053-595 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Surf-boat for landing troops on the Gold Coast, 1873. 'The War Department has got a surf-boat, specially designed and constructed by Messrs. Forrestt and Son, of Limehouse, for landing troops on the Gold Coast. It may either be rowed with oars by our sailors, or paddled by Fantees or Kroomen - the latter is the method shown in our Illustration. The smaller size of boat is 24 ft. in length, 6 ft. in breadth, and 2 ft. 6 in. deep; the medium size 28 ft. long. The stem and stern are formed by the keel being bent round, all in one piece; and the frame timbers are of steamed wood, in one length from gunwale to gunwale; the planks are likewise in one length, where practicable. All the fastenings are of stout copper, and the points of the nails are clenched on copper washers. The boats are lined inside, and are furnished with head and stern platforms. Each boat is supplied with ten paddles, and with one steering-oar and crutch. The design was carefully prepared, on the suggestions or with the approval of captains trading to the coast'. From "Illustrated London News", 1873.