False Keels

[TKAM]

How did British ships in the 17th century attach false keels to the bottom of the keel? Would any nails or spikes or such be visible and as such can it be simulated on a 1:64 scale model of HMS Surprise? Also, I assume the false keel would NOT be covered up by copper plates?

Any help or pointers would be appreciated.

 

[Brewbrarian]

Goodwin (The Construction and Fitting of the English Man of War, 1650-1850, p. 7-8) says that the false keel was attached to the keel with a sort of copper staple since bolting would negate the purpose of sparing the keel and tearing free easily in the event of grounding. These copper staples were attached at either side of the keel so that it could be easily removed or would simply break-away at grounding without damaging the keel.
I don't know the answer to the coppering question, but I suspect it would be attached over the copper plating for the same reasons above. Looking forward to hearing a firm answer to that one.

 

[TKAM]

Goodwin (The Construction and Fitting of the English Man of War, 1650-1850, p. 7-8) says that the false keel was attached to the keel with a sort of copper staple since bolting would negate the purpose of sparing the keel and tearing free easily in the event of grounding. These copper staples were attached at either side of the keel so that it could be easily removed or would simply break-away at grounding without damaging the keel.
I don't know the answer to the coppering question, but I suspect it would be attached over the copper plating for the same reasons above. Looking forward to hearing a firm answer to that one.

That makes complete sense to me. I'm quite sure I'll be able to simulate some copper straps after gluing the strip to the bottom of the keel. Thank you for your help.