Tugboat decking around 1900

[Kurt Johnson]

I am building a model steam tugboat from around the 1890’s -1900 period based on the Model Shipways “Taurus” which is a composite of several tugs. I am wondering if the decking in general practice would be nibbled at waterway, or would be curved following the waterway like a yatch might. I have looked at MANY photos, but almost none of the views show the deck. Later time period pics I have found show a metal deck or painted deck. I have found one image of a tug being restored and the decking was curved short planks but had been painted over. Anybody have any idea what might have been the most likely practice at that time? I don’t want to paint the deck.  I already know I can’t get a definitive answer, but I would like to hear some thoughts. Thanks.

 

Kurt

 

[steamschooner]

Kurt, Here is a couple of scans of a steamtug plans. 

[Kurt Johnson]

Steve

 

Thanks, I actually was doubtful I would get a response to my question. That is just what I've been looking for. Now I can say it was a practice during the time frame so it is a reasonable possibility for my boat. Question though, the smaller U shaped planking, is that on the roof of the wheel house or in it?  Does those plans show the base of the stack, where it enters the superstructure?

 

Thanks again, Kurt

 

[John Cheevers]

Just a guess....but I bet the "u-shaped" planking is a bench seat.

 

[steamschooner]

Kurt, Like John said it's a curved bench seat. Here is what is shown of the stack.

[Kurt Johnson]

What is the purpose of the flairing at the base of the funnel? Many pictures show it, but not all. I thought it was a flue of some sorts to create an updraft.

 

Kurt

[steamschooner]

Kurt, I believe that the flaired collar was like a rain cap to shed rain water off. Under the collar had open holes/slots for venting heat from the engine room. The wood cabin top needed clearance from the stack. The stack would get very hot with the boiler going.

[Kurt Johnson]

Steve, Thanks.

Kurt

[kurtvd19]

The collar was absolutely a rain shield due to the clearance needed between the stack and combustible construction.

Kurt

[Kurt Johnson]

I thought it might be a flue of sorts to add to updraft.