On 20 May 2005 05:56:46 -0700, "Ed Stasiak" wrote:

In particular, we'd like to know when a ship of this type
was being built and approximately how long these types of
ships were in use.

It's hard to say because this is obviously a set and done more for
artistic reasons that sailing reasons. It's a composite ship with
various types of rigging and steering - Doug mentioned that the rudder
system is really something for a much larger vessel - and the sail
plan, based on the picture you provided, makes no sense in particular
for a ship of it's size.

There are a couple of tip offs that this isn't "real". For one, no
copper bottom which was common for ships that plied the tropics.
Assuming that the white part is the water line, there isnt' any tar
below the water line which was also common on small ships of that era
- think of the tar as a precursor to bottom paint.

The other thing is the lack of barnacles or other growth which you
would have seen regardless.

Also there isnt' any tumble home - the ship is pretty much slab sided
which is unlikely in a sea going vessel of it's purported vintage.

Thus, it's a set.

Also, what are the odds that a ship like this would survive
in the condition shown up until 2004 on a tropical island,
factoring in that it's possible that people may have been
using the ship as a home and maintaining it for X number
of years?

Not long. Even with the jungle growth hanging very dramatically off
the gunwales, it would trap water and being in the tropics probably
subject to torpedo worms.

Also, ships aren't meant to "sit" on land for long period of time
without collapsing. Based on the angle of the vessel it wouldn't be
long before it fell in on itself.

Consider that it would have been one hell of a storm to place this
ship in that position, it's pretty remarkable that the topsides
managed to stay in place - unlikely.

By the way, are there any historical references to a ship
named "Black Rock", possibly out of Portsmouth England?

Probably not. It's possible, but as to records, unlikely. You'd have
to use a pay service to find out and most likely they would have to
search Lloyd's of London data base.

If I had to guess, it's a back handed swipe at CBS which is also known
as Black Rock and the analogy would be ratings wreck that is CBS. Not
that it is, I don't know - just speculating. :)

Later,

Tom