SAND MAN

Restoration

The hull

Work began in 2000, and is now about 60% complete. The boat is being restored in five phases.

Phase 1: (completed) : Preparation for restoration -- disconnect systems, remove deckhouse, lift out engine.

Phase 2 (complete): Restore hull and deck.

Work was done by Frank Townsand and his crew at the Port Townsand (WA) (no relation) Shipwright's Co-op.

Phase 3: Restore deckhouse and engine. Engine work has been funded and is currently underway.

Phase 4: Reconnect all systems, complete furnishings for galley, finalize informational signs, displays, brochures, and materials describing the history and restoration of the SAND MAN.

Phase 5: Establish permanent moorage and interpretive site.   

As it has for all of its years, Olympia will continue to be homeport for the restored SAND MAN. The tug will be entitled to proper Dept. of Transportation signage along I-5 directing motorists to the "National Historic Site, Tugboat SAND MAN."

Area hotels and motels will carry informational brochures identifying the boat as a local sightseeing highlight.

SAND MAN will  participate in local festivals such as Harbor Days and the Wooden Boat Festival. She will also be used to represent the City of Olympia and various events around Puget Sound.

 

The goal is to have SAND MAN ready for her coming out party by Harbor Days, 2003 (Labor Day weekend). The Sand Man Foundation needs approximately $100,000 to complete the restoration work. To date, about $454,000 has been invested in the project. Detailed estimates of costs were developed by shipwrights and other experienced people. Those estimates have been quite accurate -- in fact, so far, restoration contracts have come in at or below budget.

 

(Left) SAND MAN's restored hull  tied up at Olympia's Percival Landing during 2002's Harbor Days festival.

 

(Below left), the towing crew pose on the tug's stern after towing her to Olympia from Pt. Townsend.