The enduring heritage of the Worfolk brothers
As King’s Lynn’s beloved cockling boat, the Baden Powell, returns to the water after wintering at the docks, we reflect on her remarkable restoration
March 22nd marks a significant date in King’s Lynn’s rich maritime history, celebrating the preservation of an important piece of Norfolk’s fishing heritage after decades of deterioration. Named in honour of General Robert Baden-Powell, known for his role in the Boer War and for founding the Scouting movement, the story of the Baden Powell began in 1900.
This 34ft wooden, double-ended fishing vessel was the first of over 600 boats built by the Worfolk family in King’s Lynn. Commissioned by Mr Harry Cook for cockling on the sandbanks in The Wash, she proved highly successful, resulting in an additional payment of £5 on top of the agreed £50. Despite the Baden Powell’s exceptional craftsmanship, it’s unlikely Walter Worfolk anticipated his first creation would become a local symbol or remain operational more than 120 years later. Today, she stands out as the oldest local wooden fishing boat in use and the only double-ended vessel of her type in existence.
“To me, the Baden Powell represents the past, present and future,” says Dr Paul Richards, Chairman of both True’s Yard Fisherfolk Museum and its sister organisation, the King’s Lynn Worfolk Boat Trust. “Everything we have accomplished over the years, through dedication and perseverance, has been in service of our heritage. By reviving and maintaining the Baden Powell, we have preserved a piece of our history so that it can be appreciated for many years to come.”
The King’s Lynn Worfolk Boat Trust, which assumed stewardship of the vessel from True’s Yard in 2009, has undoubtedly achieved this goal. Since 2017, the restored fishing smack has been enjoyed by both locals and visitors, offering trips up and down the river and into The Wash from April to September. In her new role as a pleasure boat and heritage asset, the Baden Powell has taken over 1,000 guests along the historic route, providing unrivalled views of Lynn’s riverside.
“Having seen many people from all walks of life attracted to the Baden Powell so far, it fills me with joy to think about all those who will get to experience her over the next century,” says Kim Leonard, Treasurer of the King’s Lynn Worfolk Boat Trust.
For Dr Richards, being aboard the Baden Powell and seeing Lynn from the river is like stepping back in time. “Nowadays, people often arrive by train or road, but historically, it was from the River Great Ouse that most travellers first saw the town,” he says. “It’s astonishing to imagine how many people would have encountered Lynn from the river over the centuries. Having the opportunity to experience it through that lens once again enhances our civic pride and deepens our understanding of the town.”
Since its remarkable restoration, the Worfolk masterpiece has also played a key role in educating subsequent generations about Lynn’s fascinating fishing industry and boatbuilding heritage. Looking ahead, two primary objectives are to provide sail training for local youth organisations and to serve as a historic learning aid for schools.
“We must honour the culture, skills and artistry of our fishing ancestors by preserving their knowledge and artefacts wherever possible,” adds Dr Richards. “It’s thanks to our passionate volunteers, contributions from funding organisations, and community support that we can continue this tradition.”
The future of the Baden Powell looks bright, making it hard to envision her as the deteriorated boat rescued by True’s Yard and King’s Lynn Worfolk Boat Trust. Her revival was indeed challenging, taking years of campaigning, thousands of volunteer hours and over £200,000 in repairs. Now returned to her former glory, she is back where she belongs.
Despite undergoing extensive restoration, the Baden Powell retains many original parts, including her shape, design and concept from Walter Worfolk’s time. With the involvement of the late master boatbuilder Vic Pratt, who was the only apprentice of Worfolk, her authenticity is undeniable.
“The restoration of our beloved Baden Powell would not have been possible without the dedication of our amazing volunteers,” comments Tim Clayton, a former trustee of True’s Yard and project leader of the King’s Lynn Worfolk Boat Trust. “Their continued commitment keeps her afloat, so we are always seeking new members to join the Trust, especially those with day skipper certificates.”
To sign up for volunteering opportunities, discover more about the charming Baden Powell or to book a tour and experience an exciting trip into King’s Lynn’s history, visit www.floatourboat.co.uk.
PICTURES: Overseen by the King’s Lynn Worfolk Boat Trust, the historic fishing smack underwent extensive restoration work before relaunching in 2017 (above). It would not have been possible without the help of dedicated volunteers such as Tim Clayton, project leader at the Trust (below, middle) and the late Vic Pratt, who was a master boatbuilder and the only apprentice of Worfolk (below, front).
