Magdalen College Barge Restoration

Paul Austin-Clark is organizing this fundraiser.

Donation protected

The Magdalen College Barge is one of only five remaining barges from the original 23 - the rest have been destroyed over the years. This one survives because of the ferro-cement hull, groundbreaking in its time, and this hull is still now completely sound, surviving the test of time! The sides need work but much of the original superstructure is solid and repairable.

Having recently witnessed the destruction of a sister ship (college barge) being literally cut up and removed this past summer, I feel passionately that we should be trying to keep these amazing pieces of history alive and afloat. We have been blessed to be able to purchase this blank canvas. My dream is to sympathetically restore the barge to its former glory and to then open it up for educational and creative activities. We will also encourage ideas for other activities from friends of the barge and local communities.

The boat was considered too costly to repair at boatyard prices. However, as enthusiasts, we are able to rescue this historic and atmospheric craft to rebuild it in pragmatic phases. Firstly, we need to keep the rain out by immediate repairs to the roof and the upper sides. This will enable the space inside to be useable relatively soon. We should be open for use sometime in 2024...

Our request:

We are asking people to donate anything that they can to 'float the boat', however, those who are able to pay a donation of £200 or more will be allocated a full day of hosted Magdalen College Barge activities. This is equivilant of hiring the boat for the day. It could be used perhaps for a birthday party, wedding or meal etc (legal things only please - conditions apply - e.g. no raves!). Please note we will only be able to step up to this when the boat is ready and legal for public use (expected in 2024). Please be assured money raised will go directly to the tradesmen.

I am really looking forward to bringing the boat back to life - your donations will help enormously!