Removing the hog
Currently the shipwrights’ priority is removing about half of the hog. Not all the 11 inch hog will be eliminated because over time some of it has been built into the vessel; therefore it is not practical to reduce it completely. The keel has been lowered about two inches but the hog has maintained its curve which is most pronounced forward of keel block #12. Aft of this point the keel is quite straight but inclined from the stern upwards to a point amidships, where the curvature of the hog becomes most evident.
The shipwrights are using the experience of the crew which restored the USS Constellation which had a similar challenge. Jacks have been installed directly under the bow. Upward lifting pressure will be applied while simultaneously the keel will be allowed to drop one keel block at a time in this forward area. This process will be done very slowly. If successful, more of the forward part of the keel on multiple keel blocks will be engaged. A similar technique will be employed in the stern.