I was very fortunate to meet with some relatives/direct descendants of the original owner, Henry Hampden Dutton (I think known variously as Harry, or HHD). Hamish Dutton is the great grandson of Harry, and took a strong interest in Wyruna a number of years ago. He did some detailed research, and collected what items still remained of/from Wyruna during the families ownership. Amazingly, some really interesting items remain in their possession, 100 years later.
One of the items was an original drawing (in blueprint), showing side elevation, and interior and exterior fitout/fittings. This would have comprised one of many drawings completed by Walter Reeks in 1912. It shows his signature, dated 6 July 1912, which is less than six months from when we know delivery occurred. This was fortuitous timing, as we are close to starting deck structures, that will be influenced by rig selection. It enabled a much easier task to trace Wyruna into CAD. The next post will show how this was used – with some rig suggestions.
Apparently this drawing was hanging on a wall in the family’s Rocky Point home on Kangaroo Island for many years. It is fantastic to have a copy.
They also had a number of jumpers/sailing jackets, embroidered with Wyruna and RSAYS, dating from the time of Harry’s ownership (I believe). Given their age, and apparent use for fishing jumpers over the years, they are in remarkable condition. Apparently, the family had many of them.
I was also lucky enough to meet the grand daughter of Harry, who had some fantastic memories of Wyruna, and its apparent significance to the family. Her father was taught to sail in Wyruna.
One of the days that makes this worthwhile.
