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Boyne Coracle
(curach HAN NA BOINNE)
The wicker coracle was widespread
in western Europe. Examples survive from the River Boyne in Ireland
and the Spey in Scotland. On the Boyne it was used for salmon
fishing. The boat built by Meitheal Mara is based on the national
Museum collection boat and the work of James Hornell.
CONSTRUCTION -
Authentic methods were used in the building of the coracle, the
greatest task being the curing and tanning of a cowhide. The actual
framework was formed by driving hazel rods into the ground to
establish the oval shape, then sally rods were bound longitudinally
with hemp. (The original would have been bound with horsehair)
Finally the cow hide was removed from the soak pit and bound with
leather thongs to the framework and allowed to dry. The end result is
a hull as tight as a drum skin.