STRUCTURE The US Snagboat Montgomery was commissioned by the Montgomery District COE and built in 1926 by the Charleston Dry Dock and Machine Company of Charleston, South Carolina. The Snagboat Montgomery is a riveted steel stern wheel-propelled vessel with a steel hull and wood superstructure. The overall length, including the stern wheel, is approximately 178 feet, while the maximum width is approximately 34 feet. The depth of the hold is 6 feet.
CHALLENGE
We were retained by our client to assess the condition of the US Snagboat and provide recommendations for repair.
SCOPE OF SERVICE
Conduct inspection and assessment of the vessel.
Identify potential issues which require remediation.
Include recommendations for repair and assign a degree of priority to each problem.
SOLUTION
Electrification and power to the vessel is a high priority issue. The existing switch gear is not reliable and the current distribution wiring needs to be tested as it relates to subsequent recommendations.
Activation of fire detection, alarm, and suppression systems is an immediate and urgent concern. The above deck materials are combustible and the well ventilated condition of the vessel leaves this area very susceptible to ignition.
We recommend that the fiberglass and plywood covering on the deck be removed and replaced with a naturally resistant species of lumber or treated lumber.
The drainage in general is deficient. As it exists, the stacked decks drain onto one another, allowing for substantial quantities of water to enter the hull compartments.
HISTORIC STATUS The US Snagboat Montgomery became a registered National Historic Landmark in June of 1989.
