Vérité is a replica of a French Admiral's gig that was captured in Bantry Bay, Ireland in 1796 during a battle between the French and the English. The Vérité gig was willed into being over the course of several years through the efforts of a dedicated group of youth and adults, and with the encouragement and support of the Tacoma community.
The gig is a 38' wooden boat best served by 10 oarsmen (or women), a bow watch and a coxswain. Her keel is purple heart, frames are white oak, planks are Sitka spruce, and thwarts American Elm. She has a mainmast of 24', a foremast of 21' and a shorter but still impressive mizzen.
Vérité was built in the Sea Scout building on Dock Street with access to the Thea Foss Waterway. This building which served Tacoma in previous times, fell to disuse and became the home for the Sea Scout program. It was the perfect place for messing around with boats. At this time (7/2012) the building is scheduled for demolition.
The early phases of construction.
On April 4, 1998 Vérité was trailered to Owen's Beach for launching. Amid the crowd the crew stands proud, ready for this long awaited day.
Coming to oars.
Under the watchful eye of the Charles Curtis.
Clare Petrich, Port Commissioner, the honored guest.
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