From the time of the American Revolution until about 1850, the sailing ships of the United States were first designed entirely with half-hull models. These models were constructed by shipwrights as a means of planning the ship’s design and sheer. This model was an exact scale replica of the ship’s hull. From this model the shipwright was able to enlarge the lines and built a full size symmetrical hull. Gradually, it became the practice to draw ship plans first on paper, superseding the use of half-models except as a building aid. Today, many boat owners will have a half-hull model carved after their boat has been built. Set a course to our workshop and build this classic half-hull model. You will use patterns made from the boats plan to layout and cut all the basswood parts. These parts will be glued together and when dry, the hull profile will be shaped and sanded. Upon completion, the model will be mounted to a mahogany back board and a brass plate identifying the vessel and date will be installed.
Captain Nathanael Green Herreshoff designed the 12 and a half footer in 1914 for yachtsmen who wanted a training sailboat for their children that would handle the strong wind and steep chop of Buzzards Bay. He built what he called the "Buzzard's Bay Boy's Boat" in his shop in Bristol Bay, Rhode Island. It has been in continuous production since, and is nearly universally acclaimed as one of the finest small boats of all time. Length 16”, Scale: 1”=1'