Viking to Victorian: Exploring the Use of Iron in Shipbuilding

Viking to Victorian explores the use of iron in ship building, from the Viking Age until the 1880s, when iron was abandoned in ship construction. The saving of historical ships built with the use of iron is emphasized. The author's practical knowledge and experience in building of iron-riveted Viking ships, restoring lap-streak long boats and his many voyages in open boats are highlighted. This book demonstrates that open boats built of iron and wood enabled the Norse to sail far and wide on the high seas. Simple, light and delicate vessels, that are lacking in comfort, are capable of surviving long voyages and rough seas.

The use of iron in traditional Norwegian longboats and the stamp marks in the iron ships Hansteen and Star of India, both built in the 1860s, have given new understanding to the importance of keeping the old iron. Publications on iron in ship building are almost nonexistent. This is an attempt to inspire further research, to help develop a more reflected attitude towards the protection of old products made with the world's most common material, iron.

Viking to Victorian is an untraditional book, in that it combines academically-oriented material with personal experience, descriptions and views. It is based on knowledge of boat building, sailing and navigation with traditional boats, and experience in the preservation of historic vessels. It reflects the new field this segment of maritime history represents, where much knowledge comes from traditional skill and non-academic sources. This book is a unique synthesis of practical and academic knowledge. It is the ultimate guide to the understanding and protection of historic artifacts of iron.