book review The Ketch-rigged Sloop Speedwell of 1752

[BobF]

The Ketch-rigged Sloop

Speedwell of 1752

Volume I, The Hull

by Greg Herbert and David Antscherl

Distributed by: SeaWatch Books, LLC, Florence, Oregon

8 1/2” x 11”, hardcover, 238 pages, bibliography, index

ISBN 978-1-7320162-1-7

 

   No doubt, when modelers realized that SeaWatch Books’ latest offering, The Ketch-rigged Sloop Speedwell of 1752, would be authored by Greg Herbert and David Antscherl, the level of anticipation ramped up considerably.  The last time these two gentlemen teamed up, the net result was the benchmark Swan series The Fully Framed Model.

   This latest work outlines the construction of a class of vessel not modeled very often.  Built with light scantlings, and armed with 8 three pounders and 10 swivels, Speedwell’s primary task was to track down privateers and smugglers.  Her career was long, but uneventful, and she would end her service in the Royal Navy as a fire ship renamed Spitfire.

   This first book provides an illustrated guide for building the hull, and offers the modeler detailed information for constructing the model three different ways.  These methods are plank on frame (POF), plank on bulkhead (POB), and solid hull using the lift method (LIFT).  The authors deal with the different, and, in many cases, similar complexities for constructing the hulls by providing tabs on each page that are applicable to each method.

 

   The five sheets of plans that accompany this book were drawn by Mr. Antscherl, and the attention to detail is most noteworthy.  An excellent example is the bevel lines incorporated into the bulkhead drawings, and the recommended locations for the pedestal mounting nuts.  This last item is not addressed very often by authors.

   The first chapter discusses the various references used to create the plans included with this book.  Three draughts from the Royal Museums Greenwich, and a contemporary  model  of  the  Speedwell  were  the  primary sources.  It is interesting to note that they did not always agree with each other.  Antscherl feels that this is attributable to the fact that the three draughts reflect first the original design, then the alterations made at Chatham, and finally as the vessel was built.

 

   The fact that Speedwell was revised during construction resulted in a number of unique features.  For those wanting to build the framed up version, the most notable might be the large number of cast toptimbers located around the gunports.  Normally, this situation was avoided as much as possible when designing a ship.  This helped cut labor and material costs.

 

   David Antscherl starts out Chapter Two by making an interesting statement:  “This chapter will be of interest only to those who wish to develop their own working drawings of other vessels from Royal Museums Greenwich or other contemporary plans.  Otherwise, turn to Chapter Three.”  This no doubt reflects the practical attitude that was taken when this book was written.  Nevertheless, the information provided in this chapter is well worth understanding.

   There are also two appendices in this chapter.  Appendix 2.1 discusses the anomalies that occurred between the three draughts and the RMG model.  Antscherl explains these differences, and provides reasons why he chose one reference over the other.

   Appendix 2.2 features three folios taken from the Navy Board’s Progress and Dimensions Book.  These were kept as part of the mid-eighteenth century expenditure records.  This short segment makes for some fascinating reading.

   With Chapter Three, Greg Herbert begins the journey that will take the reader through three different types of hull construction.  He points out up front that the reader should possess a basic knowledge of ship modeling, terminology, and eighteenth century ship construction.  Herbert implies that this book does not contain in-depth descriptions and techniques on how to build a framed model.  For that he recommends The Fully Framed Model, HMN Swan Class Sloops, 1767-1780.

   After discussing the construction of the keel and stem assemblies, which would be common to all three hull types, Herbert addresses the plank on bulkhead version.  It’s interesting to note that the central spine is a component that is common to both the plank on bulkhead and lift versions.  Nevertheless they are not identical, so selecting the appropriate pattern from the plans is important.  The author provides some nice tips for cutting the rabbet, shaping the central spine, installing filler blocks, and using captive nuts for mounting the model during construction as well as when it is completed.  With the majority of the models on the market today being of the plank on bulkhead variety, this segment of the book makes a great tutorial for the early stages of building these kits.

 

   The plans for the lift hull model provide patterns for five 1/2” thick layers for each side of the hull.  Essentially, the modeler is building two half-hulls that are eventually  joined to the central spine. This approach alleviates the need for wider, more expensive stock, and allows the hull to be more easily hollowed out if you wish to detail the interior.

 

   The upper most lift can be divided into two 1/4” layers, which eliminates the need for cutting slots that will accommodate the partial bulkheads.  The reader is also reminded that due to the tumblehome amidships, the lower face of each lift may actually be wider at this location on the hull.  One nice touch is the fact that all the lift patterns feature drill center marks for locating pegs.  They prevent slippage during the gluing up and clamping process.  When assembled and shaped, the patterns will provide the hull shape to the inside of the outer planking.

 

   After the partial bulkheads are in place, the hull follows the same pattern as the plank on bulkhead version.  This includes installation of filler blocks between the partial bulkheads, marking out the gunports and sweep ports, and attaching the side counter timbers.

    At this point, Herbert turns his attention to the plank on frame hull.  The next seven chapters are devoted solely to its construction.  Herbert’s methodical approach while constructing all the components is most noteworthy.

 

   One of the more interesting aspects of this book is the effort put forth by the authors to properly interpret the draughts and Royal Museums Greenwich model of Speedwell.  An excellent example was determining whether the quarter badge lights were real or dummies.  Only after very close examination of the RMG model, and considerable deliberation, did the authors feel that their decision was the correct one.  Nevertheless, the builder is supplied with alternate framing plans for that area of the model if they wish to proceed in the other direction.

 

   The final 12 chapters are, for the most part, applicable to all three hull types.  Herbert’s workmanship is outstanding, and he offers numerous hints and tips.  Hull planking is discussed in considerable detail in volume 1, which is a big plus for those not well versed in this important aspect of model ship construction.  Herbert simplifies the process by breaking down the procedure into component steps, which include butt-joint patterns, lining off the hull, main wale construction, treenailing, and spiling.  A properly laid out and proportioned garboard strake receives special attention.

 

   Volume 1 concludes with two appendices.  Appendix A discusses chocked joints, and Appendix B outlines the fabrication and use of molding cutters.

   This latest SeaWatch offering features 8 pages of color photos, and, as previously mentioned, a packet of plans consisting of five sheets.  At a scale of 1:48 they will produce a model with an overall hull length of 21 1/2”.

   This review has touched on only a few of the many aspects this work has to offer.  “The Ketch-rigged Sloop  Speedwell of 1752” would be a noteworthy addition to any ship modeler’s library.  This book is highly recommended.

 

BobF

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Sgt Mike]

Looks like a good book for my 1st time scratch build.  I like the 1:48 scale.  When will volume 2 be available?

[BobF]

Supposedly, Book II on masting and rigging will be published in late 2019.

 

BobF

[MEDDO]

Another wonderful book.  I do really like the way Greg and David include all 3 different hull types.

[schiffebastler]

It is the first book and the first set of plans I know that unites these three construction methods. Masterfully researched, compiled and drawn, an absolute must have for every model maker, not only for those, interested in ships of this time or type. This book is highly recommended.

 

Joachim

[dvm27]

Thanks for the kind words. I am just about ready to turn the model over to David, who will provide and extensively document the carvings on Speedwell. We are toying with the idea of making castings of the carvings available so that builders of the model who lack this skill (like me) may have another option. While David is handling that I will be preparing masts and spars and will commence rigging once the carvings are finished. There is just enough rigging on her to be interesting without being boringly repetitive (no disrespect, Ed). A 2019 publication date may be a tad optimistic as my job leaves little time fo ship model making these days but here are a couple of updated photos. She has a sweet hull doesn't she?

[oneslim]

Greg, she is just beautiful.

 

Bob W

[MEDDO]

Greg she really looks great even more impressive in person.  The cleanliness and tightness of everything is amazing.

[carlosgf]

Hi all,

 

I see volume 2 is available at Seawatch Books.

 

https://www.seawatchbooks.com/ItemDisplay.php?sku=120001

 

 

[dvm27]

It is indeed, Carlos. Just received my copy and am very pleased with the final product. Hopefully, those looking for a smaller project but at a scale that is accessible for much detailing (1:48) will give it a try. With the two volume Speedwell book and plans you can't ask for a better set of instructions. Now maybe some enterprising third party will offer a set of carvings for the project like what happens in the model aircraft industry with photo etched upgrades.

[RichardG]

Ordered my copy last night. A birthday present from my wife (she hasn't asked what I want for my birthday yet, it's still 2 1/2 months away 😀).

[Swede]

This is the first time that I've seen an recent model ship book mention the "Lift Method."  Is this the best source for diving into this method of scratchbuilding? 

[carlosgf]

9 hours ago, dvm27 said:

It is indeed, Carlos. Just received my copy and am very pleased with the final product. Hopefully, those looking for a smaller project but at a scale that is accessible for much detailing (1:48) will give it a try. With the two volume Speedwell book and plans you can't ask for a better set of instructions. Now maybe some enterprising third party will offer a set of carvings for the project like what happens in the model aircraft industry with photo etched upgrades.

 

Thanks, Greg. I suposse Vollume II includes plans. Web page doesn't indicate it.

[JpR62]

Happy owner of volume 1, I ordered without hesitation of this second opus.

Knowing the quality of the work of the two authors, I could not ignore this final volume. 😁

[dvm27]

8 hours ago, carlosgf said:

 

Thanks, Greg. I suposse Vollume II includes plans. Web page doesn't indicate it.

Yes, Volume Two has four sheets of plans (masting and sparring, standing rigging, running rigging square yards and running rigging fore and aft gaffs). All line sizes and falls are illustrated.

[garyshipwright]

Hi Greg. Order this same book accepted its vol 2  on aug 8 and havn't  recieved it yet. Do you know how Bob is doing and if he able to ship them out? Just wondering, usually I would have recieved it by now. Thanks Gary

[KentM]

I received my copy on August 22, 2020.

Kent

[kurtvd19]

I spoke with Bob last week.  He's doing better but moving slowly.

If he got the order you will get the book.

[garyshipwright]

Hi Kurt. Guess what, it showed up and for some reason I knew if I asked about it,  it would show up.  it did on the 24 aug. God bless Bob and wish him the best. 

[RichardG]

Mine showed up today as well . I went out to get the mail and it was sitting on our porch.

 

I'm going to open it briefly to check it's ok. I then have to hide it for 67 days or until my wife asks me what I want for my birthday.

 

[Guest]

 

[Elia]

Boy - I think I missed the boat on this.  Recently I have been looking into Speedwell and the two volumes with plans.  Having three of the Swan Class books I sense that the size and complexity of that class might be a bit of a slight stretch as a first POF attempt.  Speedwell appears yo me a little better sized for my skills.  But now I don't think I'll be able to purchase the two volumes.  Can any of you confirm if Sea Watch Books are now closed for business?  If this is the case is there anywhere else I can purchase these volumes (along with a few others I hadn't purchased)?

 

Elia

[dvm27]

They're still open and selling inventory so order away. 

[JeffT]

I ordered both last week.

[Elia]

Thanks!

[MEDDO]

Just received my copy of part II a few days ago and it is a great continuation of part I