Charles Van Damme ferry
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1. SAVED: the 1916 artifacts from demolition.
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The SAVE phase of the Charles Van Damme Ferry Project has been completed.

Mike Linder and Jack Schwaner managed to work loose the bolts from the 100 year old, 10ft iron shaft which had kept the paddle wheel stuck in the mud for the last 30 years.This was not an easy task, however this avoided having to cut the shaft which would have damaged this artifact.

We can now move ahead with the next 2 phases of the project.
RESTORE the saved artifacts and EXHIBIT in the proposed State mandated park at Waldo Point. 

We are currently seeking donations to be able to complete these phases.
The CVD smoke stack and paddlewheel have been moved to Bayside Boat works in Sausalito, ready for restoration.
Picture
Paddle wheel braced and lifted via crane to safety. Photo Dona Schweiger
The artifacts were lifted by crane and put on two trailers for the short drive down Bridgeway on the morning of Thursday, Sept 26. This was accomplished with the assistance of Ad-Lite Crane Services and Parker Diving Services.

 A sincere thank you to all who helped us complete this phase.
A list of supporters in this effort can be found on the thank you page.

 Photos by Dona Schweiger, Victoria Colella & Marianne Dolan

RESTORE the 100yr Paddle Wheel and Smoke Stack by placing it on an A- frame ready for restoration using local boat builders & boat building schools.

The project's planning and design have been approved by Marin County - next step BCDC approval.



SEE PLANS
EXHIBIT in Waldo Point's state mandated public park at Gate 5 Road. The restored artifacts will be placed on permanent public display at it's original resting place, on a raised platform with information boards telling the story of the 9 lives of the Ferry boat.

Thanks to Michael Rex, the Chairman of our fiscal sponsor, RBMA. who designed and drew up our vision for the restored artifacts. Waldo Point Harbor have agreed for them to be exhibited in the new proposed State mandated park at Gate 5 Road.

DONATE

With the donation of your time, money, expertise and support we will succeed in saving, restoring and displaying a rare and important local maritime and cultural icon to inspire both present and future generations to come.

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