Author
Howard Irving Chapelle
1901-1975
Howard Irving Chapelle (1901-1975) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Howard Irving Chapelle
Fulton's "Steam Battery": Blockship and Catamaran
"Fulton's "Steam Battery": Blockship and Catamaran" by Howard Irving Chapelle is a historical account written in the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1960s. The book delves into Robert Fulton's innovative design for a steam-powered warship, the first of its kind, constructed during the War of 1812. It provides a detailed examination of the ship's development, construction, and historical significance, focusing on the dual-hull design that characterizes this unique vessel. The book narrates the journey of Fulton's "Steam Battery", highlighting the collaborative efforts of various individuals and organizations involved in its creation. Chapelle meticulously outlines the challenges faced, from funding issues and material shortages due to wartime blockades to technical modifications needed for the machinery and design. The narrative captures the anticipation surrounding the ship's launch, trials, and eventual operational shortcomings, as well as the broader implications of such innovations in naval warfare. Ultimately, the author underscores the impact of Fulton’s work on future naval engineering and the evolution of combat vessels, even as the steam battery itself did not fulfill its intended role during the war.
The Pioneer Steamship Savannah: A Study for a Scale Model United States National Museum Bulletin 228, 1961, pages 61-80
"The Pioneer Steamship Savannah: A Study for a Scale Model" by Howard Irving Chapelle is a scientific publication likely written in the mid-20th century. This book discusses the reconstruction of the plans for the historic steamship Savannah, the first vessel to successfully cross the Atlantic Ocean under steam power. It details the inaccuracies found in previous models and illustrations, aiming to provide an authentic representation based on available historical documentation. The content focuses on the meticulous research undertaken to correct previous misconceptions about the design and specifications of the Savannah. Chapelle utilizes primary sources, including the ship's logbook and a contemporary French report, to reconstruct the ship's dimensions, sailing capabilities, and structural features. The book is highly technical, highlighting the evolution of steam technology and maritime engineering in the early 19th century while emphasizing the historical significance of the Savannah's voyages and her role in advancing transatlantic steam travel. The overall aim is to create an accurate scale model that pays homage to this pioneering vessel’s contributions to maritime history.
The Migrations of an American Boat Type
"The Migrations of an American Boat Type" by Howard Irving Chapelle is a historical account written in the mid-20th century. This book focuses on the origins and development of the New Haven sharpie, a flat-bottomed sailing skiff primarily designed for oyster fishing, and traces its spread along the eastern coast of the United States. Chapelle, serving as curator of transportation at the Smithsonian Institution, meticulously documents the evolution of this boat type, highlighting its various adaptations and innovations in form and function across different regions. In his examination of the sharpie's lineage, Chapelle details how the boat originated in New Haven, Connecticut, in the 1840s and quickly proved suited for various maritime tasks due to its economical design, speed, and seaworthiness. The book covers the sharpie's variations, including designs adopted in Chesapeake Bay and North Carolina, where the boat underwent adaptations for local fisheries. Chapelle notes the sharpie's impact on maritime culture, including its role in both commercial fishing and yacht racing. Furthermore, he discusses how the sharpie influenced subsequent boat designs despite its decline with the advent of motorized fishing vessels, reinforcing its significance in American maritime history.