Training ketch Tectona

I was interested to read of the search for information on the training ketch ‘Tectona’. Since the origin of the vessel’s construction was in India, I would suggest that the name springs from Tectona grandis L, the genus and species of teak(1). Geographically the timber would generally be available for ship construction, and it would make an excellent choice for many practical reasons. The oil within the timber is a preventive of rust when iron is in contact with it and by consequence was preferred for the backing to armour-plates of ironclad ships of war. Also according to the Lloyds List of ratings for shipbuilding timber, the best shipbuilding timber to be found in the world is East India teak, Tectona grandis L and superior to our own oak, Quercus robur L.(2) Finally, one great advantage this timber has is that teak itself will always be seasoned before use since it will not float and thus cannot be transported until effective seasoning is carried out. One great disadvantage however, is the confusion that on occasion attends another species of teak, Pterocarpus marsupium. This timber occurs in Central and Southern India, it is hard, easily polished and highly durable except, unfortunately, when in contact with water!(3)

References

(1) A.L Howard, Timbers of the World, (1920), p.285

(2) 'Lloyd's Register of Shipping, Rules and Regulations for the Construction and Classification of Wood Vessels', (1920)

(3) W.Wren, Timbers and their Uses, (1919) p.9.

From Mike Baker

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