Our primary objective during this rebuild project is to replace the Half Moon's main channels, the "balconies" on each side of the ship which help brace the main mast and steady its standing rigging.

First, the crew rummages the orlop deck and clears out the rope locker for easy access to the bolts holding the channels' chains in place.

The starboard channel is soon removed and temporarily stationed on the weather deck. Much work still lies ahead, however.

These channels have certainly withstood their fair share of weather and wear, but now it's time to retire them. Before we can dispose of the timbers, however, the crew removes the chains, pins, and deadeyes. These are in fine condition, so they will be refurbished and given a new home in the replacement channels.

Once the hardware is removed, the channels are hauled up onto the barge. These channels will be used as templates for their replacements.

Until then, they make for handy workbenches.