Name Aspen

It is believed that ASPEN's hull was built by Eli Aston at Tipton about 1896. The riveted iron is currently in good condition, demonstrating a long history of regular maintenance and repairs, which include riveted/welded patches at the knees. This is very much in keeping with her years as an open, working vessel. The exposed knees within the bow’s well-deck have the name ‘Harts Hill Iron Company’ embossed on them. It is not clear what her relationship with that company was. It may simply be that these components were made by them, or she may have been part of their own fleet. ASPEN now has a steel superstructure for living accommodation which is simple in design and kept in good condition. It is thought that she was converted in the 1990’s.