Katie Belle The Journey of a Beloved Hand-Built Schooner After a Devastating Lightning Strike
Katie Belle, a hand-built wooden schooner, has been a cherished vessel in the province for many years. This beloved schooner, crafted with care and dedication by Evan Densmore and his cousin Nick Densmore, faced a significant setback last July. During a storm that led to unprecedented flooding in parts of the province, Katie Belle was struck by lightning while moored in Mill Cove in Bedford. This incident caused severe damage, particularly to the schooner’s electronics and monitoring systems. Now, a year later, the repairs are still ongoing, with Evan and Nick working tirelessly to restore their treasured boat to its former glory.
The Lightning Strike and Immediate Aftermath
On that fateful day, the Katie Belle was moored peacefully in Mill Cove. The sudden storm brought not only torrential rains but also a powerful lightning strike that hit the schooner directly. The impact was devastating. “It disabled all of our monitoring systems and kind of completely destroyed the electronics on the boat,” Evan Densmore recalls. The immediate aftermath was chaotic, with the crew scrambling to assess the full extent of the damage.
The lightning strike had effectively rendered the Katie Belle inoperative. The once functional and reliable systems that monitored the schooner’s operations were now fried, leaving the vessel vulnerable and in need of significant repair. The damage was extensive, affecting not only the electronics but also various structural components of the boat.
The Repair Process: A Labor of Love
For Evan and Nick Densmore, the repair process has been a labor of love. The Katie Belle is more than just a boat to them; it represents years of hard work, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to the sea. The repair efforts began almost immediately after the storm, but progress has been slow and meticulous.
Assessing the Damage
The first step in the repair process was to thoroughly assess the damage. This involved inspecting every part of the schooner, from the hull to the rigging, to understand the full extent of what needed to be fixed. The lightning strike had caused not only electrical damage but also minor structural issues that needed to be addressed.
Replacing the Electronics
One of the most challenging aspects of the repair was replacing the destroyed electronics. The monitoring systems, navigation equipment, and communication devices all had to be sourced and installed anew. This was no small feat, as these components are crucial for the safe and efficient operation of the schooner.
Structural Repairs
In addition to the electronic repairs, there were several structural repairs that needed attention. The lightning strike had caused cracks and weaknesses in the hull that had to be reinforced. The masts and rigging also required inspection and repair to ensure the schooner’s seaworthiness.
Ongoing Challenges
Despite their best efforts, Evan and Nick have faced several challenges along the way. The availability of parts, the complexity of the repairs, and the sheer amount of work required have all contributed to the extended timeline. However, their dedication to restoring the Katie Belle remains unwavering.
The Emotional Impact
The journey to repair the Katie Belle has not only been physically demanding but also emotionally taxing for Evan and Nick. The schooner holds a special place in their hearts, and seeing it damaged so severely was a difficult experience. Yet, their determination to bring the boat back to life has kept them motivated.
A Community Effort
The restoration of the Katie Belle has also become a community effort. Friends, family, and fellow boating enthusiasts have offered their support, whether through lending a helping hand or providing much-needed resources. This sense of community has been a source of strength for Evan and Nick as they work towards their goal.
Looking Forward: The Future of Katie Belle
As the one-year mark since the lightning strike passes, Evan and Nick remain hopeful about the future of the Katie Belle. The schooner is slowly but surely being restored, and there is light at the end of the tunnel. They envision a day when the Katie Belle will once again sail the waters, bringing joy and adventure to all who board her.
A Testament to Craftsmanship
The ongoing repair of the Katie Belle is a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication that went into building her. Evan and Nick’s unwavering commitment to restoring the schooner highlights the enduring value of hand-built boats and the deep connection they foster between their creators and the sea.
An Inspirational Journey
The story of the Katie Belle’s journey from a devastating lightning strike to a slow but steady recovery is an inspirational one. It speaks to the resilience and determination of those who care deeply about preserving maritime heritage and the vessels that embody it.
Conclusion
The Katie Belle, a beloved hand-built wooden schooner, continues to undergo repairs a year after a lightning strike caused severe damage. Evan and Nick Densmore, the dedicated builders and caretakers of the schooner, have been working tirelessly to restore her to her former glory. Despite the challenges they have faced, their commitment to the Katie Belle remains strong. As they look forward to the day when she will sail again, their journey serves as a testament to the enduring value of craftsmanship and the deep connections formed between people and the boats they build.
