With rubber shovels and grit, Mystic Seaport workers dig out historic whaling ship after snowstorm

Mystic Seaport Museum workers are digging heavy snow off historic wooden ships, including the Charles W. Morgan, without damaging the decks. On Tuesday, they used only rubber and plastic shovels. They avoid metal tools and snowblowers because they can gouge the wood. The job is challenging on the Morgan because workers lift snow over rails that reach about four feet. Staff then spread rock salt on the decks. They say salt water protects wood better than fresh meltwater. Crews also watch for balance and stability as snow piles up. The museum starts reopening on Wednesday.