Restoration Appeal

For the oldest surviving motor lifeboat in the world.

James Stevens No.14 in all her glory 1900

Frinton and Walton Heritage Trust - The Frinton and Walton Heritage trust found itself with a unique opportunity in 1998 to purchase the `James Stevens No14`, Walton`s second lifeboat. At that time, used as a house boat and moored in a mud berth, she was instantly recognisable as a lifeboat despite a large superstructure. She was up for sale and who could tell what would happen to her if she passed into an unsympathetic pair of hands.

Walton and Frinton`s first lifeboat, `The Honourable Artillery Company`s, no longer survives, so the James Stevens No.14 is the oldest of our surviving lifeboats. Many of her crew have relatives still living in the area. What better gift could Walton`s heritage deserve than to have this historic vessel return for restoration and use as a working vessel when fully restored.

The Project - to restore to seagoing condition the oldest surviving motor lifeboat in the world, using traditional methods and materials as far as possible.

The Location - Walton-on-the-Naze is a small seaside town in North-East Essex which has a long history as a lifeboat station.

The Organisation - Frinton & Walton Heritage Trust exists to preserve the heritage of the local area. It has already restored The Old Lifeboat House at Walton which now houses Walton Maritime Museum. This project received a national RIBA award. It also renovated the crossing keeper`s cottage and garden at Frinton`s railway station.

Our Aims - We intend to use the restored James Stevens No.14 lifeboat as a floating exhibit, illustrating traditional boatbuilding methods, early lifeboat design and hands-on practical experience to the general public. We will visit classic boat festivals and attend lifeboat functions.

Progress - The restoration work approved as the Stabilisation Plan is now complete. Our application to the Heritage Lottery Fund for assistance has been successful. The project management plan for the main part of the restoration is currently being put together.

National Recognition - James Stevens No.14 is included in the top 150 ships and boats on the National Register of Historic Vessels.