In 1883 Hythe (Kent) Council obtained permission to construct a dam at West Hythe on the Royal Military Canal thus effectively sealing off Hythe from the rest of the Royal Military Canal and the port of Rye in East Sussex. The barge (55' x 12' 3") depicted on the postcard was built and operated by Messrs. Vidler, Sons & Co. of Rye. This may well have been the last barge to reach Hythe. Anyway it was obviously built to a high standard as I have three other cards showing this barge, the last post-marked 1918.

The craft was capable of carrying 26 tons and had a crew of two men, the master, who was placed in charge by the owner, and a mate, whom the former engaged to assist him. Master and mate worked by the share, price per ton, etc., being mutually agreed between the owner, master, and customer. At settlement, taking place once every week, the owner deducting one-third for the upkeep of the barge and his profit and paying two-thirds to the master, who shared it equally with his mate.

Hugh Compton