The Argonaut Jr., built by Doug and Kay Jackson and their friends, is a replica of one constructed in 1894. The unique sub built of wood and fitted with wheels was a prototype designed by Simon Lake, a forefather of the US submarine fleet. Lake’s later submarines would roll along the ocean floor salvaging treasure off of sunken ships.

 

Just like the original, today’s Argonaut Jr. is built from common materials like plywood and plumbing parts and is quick and inexpensive to build. The project brings a special piece of history to life as well as gathering together people with a variety of skills and interests - backyard engineers, teachers, artists, CAD designers, historians, modelers, builders, submariners, adventures, and students of all ages.

 

With five successful dives behind her, the Argonaut Jr. has been pulled from the water and is available for school visits both as a teaching tool and a way to inspire students. Free educational materials including lesson plans, student handouts and movies can be found on the sub’s web site www.argonautjr.com.