The Sea Bright Skiff

This morning found me in the mood for a classic Jersey Shore Boat and an old book. Nothing fills the bill as well as Dr. Guthorn's "The Sea Bright Skiff". A more compelling history of a classic craft and its evolution cannot be found. I have found this book to be a portal to warm sand and a crisp breeze.

Here is a positive review of the writing and craft via TraditionalSmallCraft.com
An essential companion to the book is a true film on the subject, "The Sea Bright Skiff: Working on the Jersey Shore".

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Currach building near Dingle, Ireland

The builder in this film is Brandon Creek Harbor Master, Michael o'Shea. Born in 1878 and passing on in the early 1960's, Mr. o’Shea is involved in the building of a traditional Naomhóg; a type of coracle, or currach, used throughout the Dingle Peninsula and especially associated with the Blasket Islands. This 16mm, reverse process, film was shot in the early 1950's near Brandon Creek, Ireland.
I appreciate his eye for lines. No lofting, no plans, just steam, wood, and vision. Building a boat in the elements of nature – Huzzah Mr. o’Shea.