Baltic was built in by WJ Yarwoods and Son in Northwich in 1928 for the LMS railway company as 2 vessels, the “Rat” and the “Ocean”. In 1974 the 2 vessels were cut in half and Mr Alan Picken joined the rear halves of the two vessels to create the boat we see today.
Her construction makes her what is commonly known as a ‘double ender;’ that is to say she does not need to be turned around around. This makes her incredibly useful to work as her journeys need not be limited by places she can be turned around in. She has no engine, and relies on being towed by either a motor boat, a boat horse or even a human!
In her long career she was the trip boat for the Huddersfield Canal Society, then named “Benjamin Outram”, and also had a number of minor television appearances before being turned into a houseboat, and then making her way into Heatherfield Heritage’s ownership.
Our plan is to make Baltic into a floating classroom with a small cabin at either end and an arrangement of top-planks and canvas over the old cargo hold. This way she’ll be able to host people in the fresh air or undercover, depending on the weather. We know not everyone can thrive in a mainstream educational setting, and with Baltic on the scene we’ll be able to offer an alternative learning environment for all ages and abilities. Baltic will be able to offer respite days and intimate trips for those in need of the calming effects of the nature.
If you’d like to support bringing Baltic back to life, contact us a message to join in!
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