The first step in the construction of a vessel was the carving of the half model by the master builder. While the scale of the half model varied from builder to builder, the model represented accurately the shape of half of the hull to the outside of the frames. The models were usually made of layers of wood joined together by screws or wooden pegs.
Once the half model was completed the lines were taken off. Normally the half model was taken apart and the shape of the individual layers was then traced on to a piece of paper. These layers represented the various water lines and sheer lines of the vessel. This photograph shows the half model of the Schooner Oressa Belle. The half breadth plan is shown below the model and the sheer and profile is shown in the bottom drawing.
Using these two drawings, the shape of the frames at any position could be plotted. These were redrawn to full scale on the mould loft floor. Light wooden molds were then made and used as templates for the construction of the frames.
The Schooner Oressa Belle, was built at Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia in 1903 by David Burgoyne. It was owned by a group of merchants and mariners of Mahone Bay and registered at Lunenburg, N.S. In 1911 the vessel was sold to two mariners from Newfoundland. On November 29, 1919 the Oressa Belle was driven ashore on the coast of Newfoundland and became a total loss.
Courtesy: Nova Scotia Museum, Halifax and Charles A. Armour, Halifax
