The <i>Elissa</i>, an iron bark or barque, had begun her career in 1877 as a 19th-century squarerigger but underwent four major transformations; in 1977, work was undertaken to restore her original appearance and function. Extensive rebuilding was necessary to guarantee the soundness of the ship's bottom; this was determined by ultrasound studies of the plates. Laboratory studies of welding procedures were performed to determine how this method would work on the wrought iron plating (riveting was not feasible). The work done in Greece to enable her to be towed to Galveston, Texas, is summarized as well as the subsequent work in Galveston. The fire security systems which have been installed are described.