Rigged model of a Harwich Bawley

Rigged model of a Harwich Bawley, early 20thC. Made by John Cann. Craft of this type were used at Harwich for trawling for shrimps but also for whelking. The Bawley's from Leigh were substantially similar. Scale 1:24. This model probably reperesents 'Maud' LO525, built by John Cann at Harwich.

Bawleys were used from Leigh, in the mouth of the Thames, and later from Harwich for trawling for shrimps.

The origin of the bawley is uncertain but its development is probably associated with the earlier Thames fishing-boats, were clincher-built and contained a wet-well for keeping the shrimps alive. The more modern type, represented by this model of a bawley from Harwich, were carvel-built craft fitted with a boiler in which the catch was prepared for the market. The hull, usually about 35ft long, was heavily built, with a beam of about 13ft and a wide transom stern.

The rig was usually lofty, with a mainsail set on a high-peaked gaff but without a boom and therefore easily brailed up for furling. The long topmost carried a triangular topsail. Before the mast there was a foresail, and a job set on a bowsprit. A jib-topsail and balloon job were also carried for occasional use.