Setting a created page as default to display posts

Hi all.
I thought I could do this the way my mind works, but it is not so.
The problem:
I have built a site interated into WP and I would like to use a created page to display my posts.
I want the front page to remain static.

Firstly: As basic as possible I copied the index.php file and saved it to a spans.php (whatever) this would allow me to use that template for created pages for the semi-static side of the site.

Secondly: Copied the index.php and saved it orig.php, so I have it in case of meltdown.

Thirdly: Deleted the posts loop from index.php so I can use all the good stuff without the clutter hitting the front page by default.

So I created the page I wanted to display the posts and used spans.php, thinking my posts would appear here.
No joy, I realise I am missing an element from the header php, but am lost in code.
If you have, or can understand what i’m on about your help would be much appreciated.
Thanks Paul
I am awre of the static front page plug, but havn’t tried it, any advise. Cheers