Small in number, the collection contains scratch-built 1/8th scale models of the Ship-of-the-Line, Armored Cruiser and Battleship. There is also a scratch-built 1/16th scale model of the Battleship. Recently a newly constructed 1/4th scale model of the Ironclad has been added to the collection.
CSS NORTH CAROLINA
Ship-of-the-Line NORTH CAROLINA (1824-1867) - Following the War of 1812, the United States began to build a strong navy. Each ship was designed to take a position in line of battle. They were called “ship-of-the-line” or “line-of-battle-ship,” later shortened to “battleship.” This NORTH CAROLINA had 74 guns on three decks and carried 820 men. In building this 1/8 scale model Richard Glanville showed the starboard side hull fully planked in copper while the port side is exposed to show a section of the midship framing below the waterline. This also allows for a majority of the gun port lids to be open with the cannons protruding. Details include basic deck gear, fittings, boats, decorative elements, and authentic rigging. It is primarily made from basswood and mahogany. BB2005.42
Armored Cruiser U.S.S. NORTH CAROLINA (1908-1921) - The Armored Cruiser NORTH CAROLINA was designed for speed and distance, but also had six-inch steel armor and enough firepower for battle. In 1915, she was chosen to be an “Aeronautic Ship” for the Naval Flying Service and was the first ship to launch an aircraft from a catapult while at sea. Larry McCauley built this 1/8 inch scale model. BB2005.41
Battleship NORTH CAROLINA (BB-55) 1941-1947 - When the keel of the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA was laid in October of 1937, she was the first battleship to be built in sixteen years. She soon became the first of ten fast battleships to join the fleet in World War II. In this 1/8 scale model the hull is made of fiberglass, the superstructure from plastic, and the deck is natural basswood to simulate the teak. The model has all the appropriate deck gear, fittings, and armament, along with two Kingfisher float planes and their catapults. The model was built by Fred Ayers. BB1993.51
