Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Community Service on Dutch Boat June 24, 2013

Original Dutch Boat 
I was amazed by the way they built the boat; without any blueprints and almost exactly how the Dutch would have built their own ships. When we usually tour an area it is a replica instead of an originally built piece. The man speaking to us said that the Dutch could build ships faster and cheaper than anyone else during those times. It made me come to the conclusion that that’s why they first controlled the Hudson River Valley area. Their ships were more efficient and with that they were able to defend off other Europeans who were trying to control the Hudson River Valley. I almost always forget that the Dutch controlled this area before anyone else. They were superb in the business industry and could possibly surpass us in that industry now. The boat that we were cleaning today was built in 1614, making this year its 400th year anniversary. It was mainly used by the Dutch as a fur trading ship and you could tell because as they said the bottom deck would be just an open space to store. What I found so interesting was that this boat was made by 250 volunteers. They used Dutch tactics, handmade parts of the boat, and used white oak as the main material. You would think that it would take us less time now to build these types of ships but in reality it took them three years to finish. The Dutch would have never taken that long. That just shows how efficient their skills really were. It also shows how dependent we now are on technology to make everything quicker for us. I wonder which tactic is better or serves as a better purpose. 

Below Deck
I was happy to help clean the boat because I enjoy looking at the finished product. Mostly everyone did their part, and I thank them because it helped us get the job done faster. Precious and I cleaned the bottom deck and I was proud by the work we did. Mainly because we didn’t know where anything went, no one does it’s just a boat, but we still put everything away neatly and managed to make a clear space on the floor. We worked as a team, as everyone should, and it turned out looking pretty good if I do say so myself. Even though we weren’t allowed to take pictures below, I did anyways so I can show off our work (see above and below). It wasn’t until we began oiling the floor that I knew I needed food in my system or else I would faint. Usually I would faint but I didn’t this time because I have such strong willpower and I’m just so efficient with my work that I knew I would be done quick (I love to brag). It was weird how while you were on the boat you didn’t feel it rocking. I knew it was moving slightly but I didn’t notice it at all. I wish we were able to sail on the boat because I know that it would be a very smooth sail. It seems crazy to me how this boat was made by Dutch tactics and yet it probably sails smoother than any boat made by the technology we have now. I would prefer using technology, just because it’s quicker, but I think skill beats any man made machine. 

Below Deck 

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