four

The Re-launching of . . . . . .

At 88,000 lbs., re-launching "Matriarch"
presented a few logistical problems. Unlike
newly-built ships "sliding down the ways" or
employing a marine railway or travel lift,
it was necessary to move "Matriarch" by truck
and re-launch with a crane..... a 120 ton crane!

Maintain an even strain!

Pre-loading inspection

Lowering onto special boat trailer

Rounding a 90-degree turn

A special lifting apparatus was constructed to raise
"Matriarch" high enough so that the truck transport
could back-in beneath her. After careful positioning
and chocking, "Matriarch" was moved the 6 miles
from her two-year dry dock to South Cove County
Park on the southern end of Lake Keowee.

Waiting for the crane to set-up

The crane set-up had to be dismantled, moved to the launch site and
then reassembled for the second lift. It was a beautiful September day
and the re-launching drew quite a crowd of on-lookers and
well-wishers. "Matriarch was lifted from the truck, the truck pulled
away and she remained suspended while last-minute checks were made.
Then she was swung out about 40' and carefully lowered into the lake.
When it was determined that the pumps were easily able to keep up with
the water intake through the new seams, Matriarch was released and
was allowed to float on her own for the first time in two years!

The crane swings "Matriarch" out over the water.

Without her engines
running at the time of
launch, "Matriarch" was
towed a mile to the
fishing pier at South Cove
County Park where she
spent the weekend. Her
new diesels caused her to
trim "down-by-the-bow"
so pumping and ballast
was needed. Monday
morning, after trimming,
she was towed over five
miles to her new home at
Pier A, Crooked Creek RV
Park, West Union, SC