In this scene from the Salem Marine Society's membership certificate, a small brig is being launched from a shipyard. The launch of a vessel was usually a public event, as can be seen by the crowd on land. There are also people riding on the deck as the vessel slides down the ways and into the water for the first time.

Once the vessel is in the water and floating, the next step is to add the rigging and sails. Then the brig will be ready to be loaded with cargo and set out on her first voyage.