Heybridge Basin (Cannibal Island)

Boatbuilder, Blacksmith, Coal Merchant & Barge Contractor

1882 - 1920. William Edward (Ned) 'Coody' Woodcraft

'Coody' had a 50 ton Ballast Barge called 'Hell Afloat'. He often contracted it out for carrying mud dug from the Northey shore for building and repairing seawalls for farmers. He also owned two Lighter's/Barges used in the canal called 'Seven Brothers', and 'Three Sisters'.

'Coody' sold a ballast barge to 'May & Butcher', who altered it to a wood lighter for use in the canal.

Operated the coal yard opposite the 'Exchange' from 1902.

(above) The smack 'Mystery', built by Ned 'Coody' Woodcraft about 1893 in the 'Fish Pet'. 'Coody' is standing on deck, 'Twinnie' Clarke on the left with the splatchers on his feet. Gabby Keeble holding the anchor. Moxen Clarke sitting in the Gun Punt. 'Salter' Stebbens standing in the Gun Punt. 'Starchy' Chaney with the beard. 'Sia' Stebbens on the right holding the oar.

(above) a traditional Basin funeral along the canal from the Basin to the cemetery at Heybridge in one of 'Coody' Woodcraft's barges, for young Thomas Fletcher who fell in the Basin from a visiting ship and drowned. 'Coody' at the helm, Charlie Stebbens on the right in the top hat, 'Sia' Stebbens just behind him, 'Darkie' Dowsett front left with peaked cap,Johnny Willis behind him with the bowler hat, David Clements with peaked cap on the left standing holding the rubbing band. Bill Stone sitting next to the coffin on the left with bowler and moustach.