Paul Stubing indicated that this is the vessel "Chester T. Marshall" being lengthened. He said she was cut in the center of the "flat" - usually amidships. He commented that this was during wartime. He continued with an explanation of vessel registration. Over 5 ton, you can document your vessel with the Federal Government and didn't have to pay state fees. This documentation carried with it certain advantages or privileges. Under 5 ton, you can license your boat with the state government and the # will stay with the boat forever.
The caption on the picture reads, "Chester T. Marshall - Lengthening At S.W. Boat Corp 1946."
According to James Warren's "Maine Sardine Industry History 1875-2000", the "Chester T. Marshall" was built in East Boothbay, Maine, in 1923 and was affiliated with R.B.Stevens Company, Jonesport.
The number on the vessel is 222811 and there are two men on board with their backs to the photographer.
Ralph Stanley said she was a wet-well lobster smack.
Ballard, W.H., “"Chester T. Marshall",” Mount Desert Island Historical Society, accessed April 29, 2024, https://mdihs.digitalarchive.us/items/show/13008.Item 13374
