This article gives a necessarily brief history of model ship building starting with the utilitarian need for them in construction of full-size ships. It takes as examples two or three types of ships from the past and describes how the use of models helped the ship builders understand the impact changes to the design would make. Model ship building was really a form of engineering before the days of slide rules and computers.
Model ships have captured a significant attention of the ship enthusiasts over the years. A ship model is the miniature replica of a specific real ship. As we all know, some of the ships have certain specialties because of their historic value, design, size, interesting stories associated etc. A wooden ship model of such great ship obviously has a great value as it recalls precious memories.
The first ship model is believed to be made more than 4000 years ago in ancient Egypt. The purpose of crafting such model ship is to give a better idea about the original ship to the constructors. It was a great assistance for engineers as there were no computers to provide them virtual 3D models. Later on, the strategy of building model ships expanded towards the Scandinavian countries and became highly useful in building Viking ships between 700 and 1000 AD. The wooden ship models built after 1300 AD by Vikings are equipped with the stern rudders.
Mediterranean people were able to design full rigged model sailing ships by year 1450 and these miniature prototypes were doing great in providing assistance for the builders. Until the latter half of the 17th century, most of the ships models were designed with the plank on the frame method, controlled with rudder powered by perfectly rigged sails. In addition to that, there was another model called “Galleons” which sailed from 1500’s to 1800’s. When it comes to classic wooden model ships for sale, packet and clipper ships have a special attraction because of their aesthetic value. Such wooden ship model can add a great elegance to any place because of the classy look. That is why some of the model ship enthusiasts always look for them other than selecting modern cruise ship models.
By 1700s people made valiant efforts to manufacture steam powered boats. The first couple of wooden boat models with paddle wheels were made during the early 1800s. Because of the continuous developments and researches towards the nautical industry, engineers were able to introduce the first propeller powered steam boat model by 1850s. It was a much better option than the paddle wheel in terms of efficiency. In fact, with the invention of this particular technology, engineers focused to manufacture steel ships other than conventional wooden ones.
If you are an enthusiast of model sailing ships, you can consider having a collection of wooden boat models to represent the history from early 3200 BC up to the latest cruise ships models. In addition to the aesthetic beauty it will provide a very rich information source for the youngsters. However, purchasing and maintaining such precious collection will not be an easy task. Therefore, the best option is to add items to your collection gradually. Most of these ship models are available on online stores these days making things much easier when it comes to purchasing. Pick a reliable supplier that has a good reputation in the industry and build a perfect collection to mesmerize your visitors.
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