first message from new member.
 

I visited Brion in 2009 when I was in Seattle looking at a 50’ Hudson ketch. My question was: “What did he think to changing a ketch to a brigantine?”
After he put his teeth back in his first reply was: “Well it’s a bit unusual.” He then looked at my plans, and gave me some good advice about possible problems.
I didn’t buy that boat, but I did buy a 1977 Down East 45 ketch nearer home, from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
I have spent the last three years restoring it, and yes, converting it to a brigantine schooner. This is now a unique rig, having a roller furled Course square sail on the fore, and the other four sails roller furled as well. I have also incorporated some other innovations, like an electric dinghy davits hoist and a hot tub in the owner's head, but they are nothing to do with rigging - although the hot tub is handy when you have done your rigging.
I am now preparing the boat for when the hurricane season ends and we plan a shakedown trip to either Bermuda, or the Bahamas.
I thought others who are interested in rigging and things might like to read my website, which details these modifications and additions. www.schooner-britannia.com