Historical information

This Yankee spiral-ratchet Screw Driver (screwdriver) set was a hand tool with drills, used in the making of components for the ship model Sovereign of the Seas. It is part of a collection of objects used by Jim Williams, maker of fine ship models from about 1930-1955. Most of the components for the models, as well as many of the tools, were handmade by Jim Williams. Jim’s family has donated the ship model “Sovereign of the Seas” and many tools, accessories and documents used in the making of this and other ship models have been donated to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village.

Ship model of HMS Sovereign of the Seas, scale model of 17th Century English war ship, was handmade and carved from plans, enclosed in airtight glass case. All components of that model, including even the smallest pulleys, were hand crafted using tools designed and made by Jim. Outstanding details include functional rigging and moving cannons.

Please see our record 3732 of the mode Sovereign of the Seas for further details of the ship and the maker.

Significance

This set is connected with the hobby and skill of ship model making that has been crafted as a leisure activity for many generations. The hobby is often chosen by serving and retired mariners who appreciate the connection with maritime history.

This set was used by local Warrnambool man, Jim Williams, who was employed at Cramond and Dickson clothing store, and then at Fletcher Jones menswear for 27 years. It was used in making components for the model of the historic ship, the Sovereign of the Seas.

The Sovereign of the Seas was a historic 17th century English war ship with important maritime heritage.

Physical description

Spiral-Ratchet Screw Driver set, also called an ‘American drill’ or hand drill. 9 parts, Yankee brand, No. 31 set. Made by North Bros. Mfc Co. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.A.. Instructions for use are on label. Ratchet screwdriver plus 6 drill bits - sizes 1/16th to 11/64th - contained in a small round wooden tube with lid, label on outside. This Screw Driver set is part of a collection of tools and accessories once used by Jim Williams, maker of a series of ship models 1930-1955 including “HMS Sovereign of the Seas”.

Inscriptions & markings

“WITH 6 DRILL POINTS / SIZES, 1/16 TO 11/64 includes - - with - - / “Yankee” Spiral-Ratchet Screw Driver No. 31 / Made by NORTH BROS. MFG. CO. PHILADELPHIA P [A?]- / Directions for use – First Insert Drill Point In - / Drill Chuck, and turn the – in Chuck of Screwdriver U.S.A.”