#63991: Construction of John Smith's 1608 Shallop Replica

In commemoration of the 400th anniversary of the exploration and charting of the Chesapeake Bay waters by Captain John Smith, a full-scale replica of Smith's "Discovery Barge" is being built in Chestertown, MD. The shipwrights are relying exclusively on 17th century tools and construction techniques. After a November 2005 launch, the shallop will spend 2006 on exhibit in museums. In 2007 a re-enactment voyage will retrace the original 1,700 mile route undertake by Smith.