After more than 30 years out of publication, The History of the Falmouth Working Boats, the definitive history of the Cornish oyster fleet by Alun Davies, has been revised and updated and is now available as a digital edition.
It took 20 years of research to produce the only comprehensive history book of the boats which work the world’s last oyster fishery, operated under sail alone. The book, first printed in 1989, contains the histories of all the boats known to have worked on the fishery and their boatbuilders. Davies brings us tales of the spectacular summer racing in Falmouth Harbour and stories of past and present men who work the Falmouth working boats for a living.
That this oyster fishery still survives in our digital age is astounding; a living relic of bygone years. It is still worked by traditional gaff-rigged sailing boats, some over 140 years old – built in the 1800s by local Cornish shipwrights specifically to work this fishery. Known worldwide for their wonderful appearance and large sail areas, the tradition of summer racing continues every year providing an extraordinary backdrop to Falmouth Harbour for locals and visitors alike.
With 260 photos this book provides the ultimate record of this unique fishery and its fleet, preserving precious knowledge which might otherwise have vanished. Now available to a new generation as a digital edition or in print format by order, The History of the Falmouth Working Boats is a valuable piece of maritime heritage.
The History of the Falmouth Working Boats is available to purchase here.