BUMBLE CK23
Built
Brightlingsea
Builder
Charles Kidby
Date
c.1899
Construction
Wooden clinker
Dimensions
L 18’
Description
Tow Haul Skiff
Built by Charles Kidby in his boatyard in Brightlingsea.
Although we are unsure of her exact build date she is of an earlier build type. She was used for tow hauling where the boat would be pulled up and down the oyster lanes, She is believed to be the last surviving example of such a vessel.
Although a name given to her later in her life, Bumble was built for the Pullen fishing family of Mersea.
Her present name was given to her by a later owner Rodney Huckleby whose small daughter found a bumble bee nest tucked under into her planking.
Other owners are Graham Baker and Douglas Mussett. Her present owner,Kevin Wood brought her in 2002 and commissioned Gerard Swift to restore her.
To be continued..