Phoenicia Progress Report for 2024: Honoring the Past, Building the Future
We are thrilled to announce that work has begun at the Phoenicia workshop to reconstruct a portion of the warped keel of Phoenicia. As many of you know, when wood dries, it often warps due to uneven shrinkage. This process is influenced by the wood's grain direction and moisture content, causing the wood to bend, twist, or cup. The keel of the ship, much like the foundation of a house, must be straight and true. It is the backbone of the vessel, providing stability and ensuring that all other parts of the ship align correctly. Any deviation in the keel can lead to significant issues in the ship's reconstruction.
Keel Reproduction
Placing the new section of keel
In our restoration efforts, we are committed to using as much of the original timber as possible. These timbers hold the history and spirit of Phoenicia, and it is vital to preserve them. However, we are also incredibly fortunate to possess the Cedars of Lebanon trees, which were grown in Pennsylvania for such a feat as this. These majestic trees provide the perfect material to ensure the integrity and longevity of our reconstruction efforts. The Cedars of Lebanon are renowned for their durability and historical significance, and their inclusion in our project adds a layer of authenticity, melding timbers from the old world with timbers from the new world.
Cedars of Lebanon grown in Pennsylvania
We cannot express enough gratitude to all those who have sacrificed their time and talents to preserve Phoenicia. Their dedication and hard work are invaluable, and their passion for this project inspires us all. We are also immensely thankful to Captain Philip Beale, whose vision and determination to build the boat originally have made this entire endeavor possible. His and his crew's passion for history and adventure continues to drive us forward and reminds us of the importance of preserving a legacy.
Our appreciation extends to the board members and volunteers who share the vision of preserving Phoenicia. Their unwavering support and commitment are the driving forces behind our efforts. Each board member and volunteer brings a unique set of skills and a shared passion for history and preservation, making our team incredibly strong and dedicated.
Though Phoenicia will never sail again, it continues to live and sail through history as a symbol of historical fact and human achievement. Over the course of two major voyages, Phoenicia sailed a total of 33,000 nautical miles across some of the world’s roughest seas and oceans. These journeys were not only a testament to the ship’s robust construction and design but also to the tenacity of her captain and crew who made these voyages possible. Their determination and bravery in navigating Phoenicia through treacherous waters stand as a powerful reminder of human resilience and ingenuity.
The Carthaginian sailors who anciently manned the Phoenician ships were a diverse group, comprising people from many cultures. Notably, up to 40% of the sailors were from the Tribe of Dan, reflecting the inclusive and multicultural nature of Carthaginian society. This rich blend of backgrounds and skills contributed to the fleet's ability to undertake such formidable voyages.
Depiction of Carthaginian Port
We invite everyone to visit the restoration site in Montrose, Iowa, to witness the preservation efforts underway. Your presence and participation would mean the world to us. You are welcome to assist in the preservation effort and to donate to the cause, helping us ensure that Phoenicia remains a symbol of maritime heritage for generations to come. By supporting this project, you are not just preserving a ship; you are preserving history, culture, and the incredible achievements of the ancient Carthaginian sailors, showcasing that they possessed the technology 2,600 years ago to not only dominate trade in the Mediterranean but also to circumnavigate the globe.