Posted by Adam Leet on September 28, 2000 at 21:18:58:
In Reply to: Re: White ships posted by Pete on September 28, 2000 at 20:46:21:
From what I've read, the main reason for painting ships black in the old days (besides their aesthetic look), was because coaling would leave the sides filthy. Painting the hull a dark color would, of course, mask that little detail, as cleanup would be a pain. As for painting ships white, including Maury during her later years, I think it does have to do with the warm tropical climate and trying to keep the ship cool.
At least, that's as far as I know...
Adam