False Keel question

[el cid]

It seems common practice for modelers to leave their vessel's false keel "un-coppered", however the "General Instructions for building a Sloop of War" (appendix p. 517 in Chapelle's "The American Sailing Navy") states "The false keel as well as the bottom of the keel to be coppered before they are fastened together."  I can't find any further info re: these "General Instructions" (Chapelle doesn't provide the source or date of this reference), so was hoping others here might provide insight on the applicability of coppering the false keel.

 

Cheers,

 

Keith

[druxey]

In English practice in the late 18th century the false keel was applied late in building just before launching. At that point the hull was not coppered. The ship was docked for coppering after launching and checking for any leaks. Therefore it is safe to assume that the copper was laid over the false keel, but not between it and the keel proper.