Regarding the beams of the frigates and the merits of oak and pine
Document 1794Knox brings up the issue of whether oak or pine should be used for the frigates. Asks if Coxe is in possession of any opinions on the subject. Asks to transmit papers, Captain Truxton's included.
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Catheads. sided 20 inches and moulded 18 ins.
Treenails For the bottom of the best heart locust to drive after a 1¾ inch auger, for the wales and upper works to drive after a 1½ inch auger, to be all plained to a moot and not suffered to be overhauled afterwards.
(Signd) Joshua Humphreys.
[Inch Case &c.]
Sir War department October 9th 1794.
Captain Truxton has stated to me the propriety of purchasing some blocks which may be had in this City, & which in his judgment are preferable to new ones. If you should agree for the price Captain Truxton will be so good as to choose those only which will be of real service.
[same]
Sir W. d. October 17th 1794.
I have learned that there is some question pending upon the quantity of the beams which are to be used in the Frigates, that is whether they shall be of oak or pine & that you are in possession of certain opinions upon this subject.
I will thank you to be so good as to transmit me these papers Captain Truxton's letter included in order if necessary that I may decide thereon.
[same]
Sir W. d. October 17th 1794.
I have attentively perused the papers relatively to the question of pine or oak beams for our frigates.
Altho' I have an high respect for the opinion & judgment of Mr Humphreys in naval Architecture, yet in the present instance I am apprehensive that the experience in favor of Pine
beams
Type
Letterbook
Description
Knox brings up the issue of whether oak or pine should be used for the frigates. Asks if Coxe is in possession of any opinions on the subject. Asks to transmit papers, Captain Truxton's included.
Date
10/17/1794
Author
Recipient
Document number
1794101770055
Page start
85
Notable persons
Tench Coxe
Captain Thomas Truxton
Henry Knox
Secretary of War
Assistant Secretary of Treasury
Truxtun
Notable locations
Philadelphia
Treasury Department
War Department
Notable items
oak
pine
beams
frigates

