I am seeking details of French Barges. These huge beasts were called Péniche with dimensions of 38m long x 5m wide. Some drawings or photographs of some 1900-1939 built examples would be very useful, but both are hard to come by. I have odd views of some converted for Operation Sealion but I need to see them in their proper state. A smaller version – a Berrichon - would do nicely if anyone can come across any information. I know it would be easier to find information on a Dutch version (Tjalks) being smaller; these measured only 26m x 4.5m. Though I already have some odd plans of a modified French vessel, again I have no pictures. In either case, any drawings would have to be of originals, that existed and found in the local waterways. Nowadays, you will find that most barges have been converted for the Tourist industry or for use as houseboat accommodation. I’d appreciate any help whatsoever, but it must be old and French (or Belgium).

I already have the book “Les Péniche de chez nous” by Michel-Paul Simon, and published in 1998. ISBN is:- 2-9093-1339-5.

Thanks & Regards, John-B

Found a simple drawing and some old B&W pictures on this site: drevant.free.fr/ Le_canal_de_Berry.htm

Is that the type of boat you mean?
Perhaps you can contact them with the question?
I look also further if I come across something usefull.

Thanks Paul, This is exactly what I am after. The plan represents a pre-WW1 barge - did you know these were used to ferry casaulties from the Front under an evacuation plan dreamt up by Napolean I believe!

A lot of barges are sold at
http://www.h2ofrance.com/
so this is another source.

Thanks and regards. John-B