US Brig Niagara

[CSherrange]

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10210493126107844.1073741872.1335692873&type=1&l=aa6012f702


I went aboard the Niagara for a day sail. Got to work the sails from the deck, and talk to the experienced crew. I have attached a link to my album of the voyage as it is far to large to upload onto here. Got some interested questions answered, and I will be happy to share them here. We also tacked all the way around, thanks to the .5-1 knot wind and the glass like Lake Erie. Raised Royal Gallant sails to catch more wind, and unfortunately had to come back under diesel power due to the low wind.

So, some questions I asked-

Niagara can sail about 70 degrees to the wind- they have had it as close as 60, but the masts REALLY don't like it.
Max speed is 18 knots- most likely could go faster, but the ship groans and strains at about 12 knots.
Crew during the battle of lake Erie was 155- no idea how the all fit, there was 70 and it was cramped. And that was minus 16 carronades and 2 long guns on deck! Perry thought it was understaffed and wanted 170- which seems to me insane as I have no idea how they would live!

[CSherrange]

There are also some videos I shot which you can access on my profile as well.

[Comte de Brueys]

Sounds like a great trip.

For the number of sailors...

If you man each carronade & cannon with only 4 men, you have 72.

Add some officers and non-commisioned officers, sailors who go for powder and cartridges, some marines for boarding, men who took over the prizes, some calculated losses. :help:

[CSherrange]

Oh I get it, but even with the average person 6" shorter than me. (and 100+ pounds lighter), I have no idea were they slept, ate, etc when they werent in battle.

[Bligh]

That is one of the advantages that the two watch system has over the three watch Charles. Only half the crew are sleeping or messing at any one time.
The photos that you took are superb. It almost feels as if we were there with you. It must have been a very memorable experience. I still have not got over the Hermione and we did not get to actually sail in her.
Thanks for sharing this with your shipmates here on the Anchorage.:beer:
Rob.

[Dobbs]

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10210493126107844.1073741872.1335692873&type=1&l=aa6012f702


Niagara can sail about 70 points to the wind- they have had it as close as 60, but the masts REALLY don't like it.

A point is 11 and 1/4 degrees, please clarify. Do you mean she can only sail 70 degrees to the wind?

[Naharaht]

That must have been a tremendous day out, Charles. Great photographs! :clap:

[CSherrange]

A point is 11 and 1/4 degrees, please clarify. Do you mean she can only sail 70 degrees to the wind?

Yes, my mistake. I will edit original post as well to avoid future issues. Thanks for pointing it out!

[CSherrange]

Also-

If anyone would like to have their own amazing experience, you can do so at this link


http://www.flagshipniagara.org/us-brig-niagara/public-day-sails/

[Bligh]

Looks like a really good experience for a very reasonable cost.
A great pity that the airfare from GB is the deal breaker.
However, thanks for bringing it to our attention Charles.
I am sure some of our members on your side of the pond will be very interested in the opportunity.
Rob.