Re-Launch of the WHIM, a C-Class Sloop in Chester, Nova Scotia

by Katie Nicoll on 15 Aug 2010 The re-launch of the WHIM, a 1937 C-Class sloop, that was designed and built in Chester, Nova Scotia by the late Joseph Reuben Heisler was a classy affair today. In attendance were several present owners of C-Class sloops that are still sailing, as well as Alberta Baker, who donated the yacht to the Maritime Museum in 2006. Restoration started in 2007 and it was launched on Sunday, August 15, 2010 in the Back Harbour of Chester, Nova Scotia.

The C-Class racing sloops were the most sought after yachts and are a proud part of Canada's Sailing history, especially the Chester community.

40% of the original structure remains in the WHIM and only 50% of the planking, consisting of carvel planked white pine over steam bent oak frames and an oak backbone, had to be replaced.

Alberta Baker and Eamonn Doorly, the boat builder who restored her, both uncorked bottles of champagne before she was launched to the thunderous applause of the local community and guests.

To find out more information about this wonderful restoration and the history of the C-Class sloop visit
http://museum.gov.ns.ca/mma