Bowsprit has a weight problem

Posted: Friday, February 22, 2008 12:00 am

By Elleda Wilson
Editorial Assistant

The Ear has heard many tales about where the missing bowsprit of the Peter Iredale Shipwreck might be. As it turns out, none of them were right. Or even close, for that matter.

Dick Mattson of Warrenton called the Ear last Friday to say he had found the bowsprit in Fort Stevens State Park. He was horrified that such a significant chunk (literally) of maritime history is outdoors, exposed to the elements. Would the Ear go photograph the bowsprit? Of course.

The Ear was sad to see that the bowsprit, between 15 and 20 feet long, has rusted badly, has holes in it and is generally in poor shape.

Mattson thinks that the bowsprit should be moved, preserved and put on display out of harm's way so everyone can see it. A good idea, but problematic. There's the expense to consider, for one thing. No one knows how much it weighs, but it's solid metal, so there's also a weight factor to consider. More troubling yet, there is reason to worry that it will fall apart if moved. And even if all of those problems were solved, where should it go?

Anyone out there have the means and/or a method to save the bowsprit? If so, contact the Ear, and the information will be forwarded.

Reprinted with permission of The Daily Astorian of Astoria, Oregon.