147-year-old NI lugger facing destruction

A historic co down lugger that fished for almost 100 years is set for ‘ethical deconstruction’ unless significant funding can be found.

Built in 1877 by William Paynter of Kilkeel, the Mary Joseph is set for her final journey after a Declaration of Intent to deconstruct the vessel by current owner National Museums NI (NMNI) was approved by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.

Described by NMNI as representing ‘a way of life of the region and the importance of the fishing industry to the people that lived there’, the Mary Joseph was the first in the Kilkeel fleet to be equipped for prawn fishing in 1954, and is one of the last original vessels from the east coast of Northern Ireland.

The large carvel-built drifter was acquired by the museum in 1973, with the approach being to ‘maintain the vessel, but not to restore it until options for its display and interpretation have been developed’ and ‘fully considered within the context of other collections/infrastructure priorities’.

However, given the Mary Joseph’s continued decline, NMNI announced its intention to commence deconstruction unless a viable alternative solution is put forward before the deadline of 9 December.

The Declaration of Intent states that the vessel is in ‘an advanced state of decay and, according to a recent survey, the current condition should be regarded as at serious risk’.

At 147 years old, the Mary Joseph has a colourful history. She is thought to have survived a German U-boat attack on the Kilkeel herring fleet during the First War World that sank five other vessels

It says the degree of structural timber decay and deformation within the hull, decks, keel and framing is ‘severe and now at an increased probability of physical failure’. The vessel is also suffering from severe deformation within the keel and stern and rudder posts.

NMNI says the projected cost of in excess of £2m to stabilise and restore the vessel to static display condition are ‘not in proportion to the opportunities for display that can be afforded in the present galleries’.

The ‘ethical deconstruction’ would include a full CAD survey, 3D and matterport scanning alongside photogrammetry, ‘ensuring that a precise detailed plan was captured enabling researchers to study her dimensions in the future’.

“If there are parts of the boat that can be saved that demonstrate unique aspects of its build then we will endeavour to do so, as has been done with previous disposals of boats,” NMNI said.

Anyone wishing to make an offer for the vessel, explore taking a section or fittings for reuse or display, propose a new use or location, or provide further evidence, should contact: hannah.crowdy@nationalmuseumsni.org as soon as possible, and no later than 9 December.

This story was taken from the latest issue of Fishing News. For more up-to-date and in-depth reports on the UK and Irish commercial fishing sector, subscribe to Fishing News here or buy the latest single issue for just £3.50 here.

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