I've just made a trip from Port Arthur, Texas to Miami, Florida having purchase
a 1970 English built (on the Isle of Wight) West Wight Potter C-14. The
previous owner of the boat (Derek Treuer) was most kind in passing along the
boat to an ardent admirer. The boat has somewhat of a mystery surrounding it.
Derek bought it in 1978 from it's second owner. The original owner is unknown.
The boat was built before hull numbering was enforced, and so aside from the
bronze plate declaring it's pedigree, and the original sails made in 1969 in
Gosport, England, there is no traceable lineage. The orginal name of the boat
is, however still known. Sand-Witch (obviously, someone closely attuned to
grounding, or intensely interested in food), came to this country sometime
between 1970 and 1975; how is not known, but we're hoping some brave lad sailed
her across. Should anyone out there have information about the original owner
and his/her whereabouts, please let me know. I'd really love to correspond with
them.
As for the boat, it is in need of some rennovation, but is surprisingly strong
and sound. According to the literature I've found, she weighs in at about 650
lbs. Compared to the P-15 owned by a friend, there is as much difference as
between a Sherman tank and a Geo Metro. This boat has a higher transom, higher
cockpit coaming, and solid hull reenforcement molded in under the deck. The
hull appears to be about 3 times the thickness of the 1984 model I compared it
to. If you're interested in seeing the boat see
http://www.prayercircle.org/pwphil/images/frodo.jpg.
I've been lurking and reading for a couple of months while the deal was being
finalized, and I'm looking forward to getting your input as I get her ready for
her new life.
Perry
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Perry W. Phillips
"A better world begins with you!"
http://www.prayercircle.org
prayercircle@prayercircle.org = For Prayer Request
