Why does 1929 gaff-sloop 16 ft wood boat have six mast positions?

[sailandpower]

We are restoring a 1929 gaff-sloop 16 ft wood boat with six mast positions. We think it is a free-standing mast without stays or shrouds. There is a 3 foot metal sleeve that fits over the mast base. The boat was build by Barnes in the Finger Lakes area of western New York. We have two questions:

1. Has anyone ever seen a sailboat with multiple mast positions? Why have this feature? Changing the mast position changes the balance of the boat and makes stays & shrouds very complex.

2. Is anyone familiar with Latham Barnes, the builder? He appears to have lived in the Elmira New York area and and built both sail and power boats. He worked at American LaFrance in Elmira.

Thanks for your help!

[John B]

Sure, different mast positions for different rig configurations in different seasons perhaps or just different jobs. I put 3 in my stripper.
Una for single handed and then two more for ketch or schooner for light winds or for fun.
6 sounds like there was a bit of change over the years.

[Breakaway]

I agree, John.

As designed, the boat likely offered three mast positions. Then, at some time in her life, a new sail of a different shape was used. Then tgey added mast steps to suit.

Are there plans available?

Kevin


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[Garret]

I can't speak to the positions (though I 'spect John & Kevin are right) - but I just have to say that's a pretty boat!

[wizbang 13]

Could we get a photo of the step?

[AndanteEd]

1. Has anyone ever seen a sailboat with multiple mast positions? Why have this feature? Changing the mast position changes the balance of the boat and makes stays & shrouds very complex.

Two mast positions are standard on a Mirror dinghy depending on whether you use the mainsail and jib or just the mainsail alone. There are two corresponding sets of chainplates for the shrouds:

mirror 1.jpg

[Hugh MacD]

Nice, clean little Mirror