This is a very seldom seen model, built circa 1870, of what was once a very often seen American Passenger Steamer.

Ships of this particularly American design evolved around the time of the California Gold Rush and carried 'Argonauts' from Boston, New York, and Savanah, to the Isthmus of Panama. ....and those who survived the walk across Panama boarded similar vessels for the run to SanFrancisco. Later they were converted into 'Gunboats' for both sides in the Civil War.

These well designed handsome ships became a mainstay of American transportation and commerce along both Atlantic and Pacific coasts in all weather conditions for the next fifty years . Photographs from the Klondike Gold Rush of the early 20th century show hopeful crowds boarding from pacific ports for the voyage to Alaska.

This fine period model, built circa 1870, depicts a classic and sophisticated vessel of her type with well formed hull driven by single screw steam propulsion and carrying a barkentine sail rig for steadying in heavy seas and economy of coal when the wind was 'right'. These, as this model testifies, were good looking ships that did their job well with ample accomodation for both passengers and cargo.

This model is very well made with fine proportions and accurate detail down to her independant steam powered anchor winch. The rigging is well done with original furled sails and wire standing rigging. This model would likely have been built by a very talented member of the crew, or one of her officers, quite possibly for presentation to her captain or an owner.

Very few antique models of this attractive and historic type of ship are seen today. Perhaps those who built and sailed them thought they'd be around forever......but railroads, automobiles, and decent roads put an end to this elegant mode of transportation.

This handsome model is in especially fine condition with original old surface and great character. It would fit well in a collectiion of marine antiques and/or Americana.

Please view the several pages of overall and detail pictures of this model by clicking on the photo above and following the directions at the top of each page.

Dimensions: 39" long, 6 "beam, 28" high
$2850.00