by Ernest Thompson Seton
Seamanship
(Nabikwa-Ninini)
The Degree of Seaman may be conferred on any one who takes eighteen of these tests (17 and 22 compulsory)
1. Tie ten different standard knots.
2. Make a finish knot at the end of a rope.
3. Make long and short splices and demonstrate covering an eye splice.
4. Use palm and needle.
5. Fling a rope coil.
6. Fling a life buoy.
7. Demonstrate that you can row and steer a boat.
8. Pole and scull a boat and demonstrate bringing it alongside safely, then make fast.
9. Box the compass.
10. Read a chart.
11. Show a knowledge of weather wisdom and tides.
12. Show how sun and stars are of service as guides.
13. Swim fifty yards with clothes on.
14. Sail a two-man boat for 100 miles without a professional sailor for companion, but yourself holding the tiller and directing its sail adjustment, etc. This need not be in one trip.
15. Demonstrate by description and sketch or actually demonstrate correct method of reefing a fore and aft sail including sequence of passing the tack lashing, Baring and knotting reef points, and turning out the reef.
16. Describe the proper method of coming to anchor so as not to foul anchor; state proper amount of rope to be paid out in proportion to depth of water. Also show method of stopping anchor line down to flukes and ring to anchor on rocky bottom.
17. Know the rules of the road; proper action to be taken on approach of other vessel of any character.
18. Show that you have won first, second, or third place in a race of any of the recognized yacht clubs or associations, with yourself as skipper.
19. Make a model of a sloop or schooner yacht or other vessel fully rigged.
20. Tell the bells and watches kept on board ship.
21. Know usual flag signals for owner and crew, location of owner's and club signal and night pennant. Also proper method of displaying the yacht ensign when at anchor and under way.
22. Describe signal lights used at night on barges, sailing power and steam vessels according to United States Regulations. Also tell what lights are used by yachts showing fleet officers, meals, owner's absence, etc.
23. Name and describe ten different sailing rigs: ship, bark, barkentine, brig, brigantine, schooner, topsail schooner, sloop, yawl, ketch, knockabout, sharpie, buckeye, catboat, lateen rig.
For "How To" Information, See: The Birch Bark Roll
