Historical information

This handmade ship model was built and donated by mr E H Grainger in the late 20th century. The warship represents the British Sloop, Seagull Class, HMS Skylark 1806-1812.

The brig-rigged, two-masted HMS Skylark was built at William Rowes' Yard on the River Tyne for the Royal Navy of the United Kingdom in 1806. The ship was armed with 14 British 24-pound Carronades and 2 British 6-pounders. It could carry a crew of 95.

Significance

This model is an example of the craft of ship model making, which has been a popular hobby for hundreds of years. Our collection has many ship models, some of which were built by professional model makers, others by naval enthusiasts.
The model is also an example of British warships that predate the colonisation of Australia.

Physical description

Ship model, Skylark. 2-masted sailing ship, hull painted, with a white strip on white. Separate wooden lifeboat. "Skylark" on each side of the bow and across the stern. The rudder pivots. Mounted on a timber stand. Model built by Mr E.H. Grainger.

Inscriptions & markings

"SKYLARK" on both sides of the bow.
"SKYLARK HULL" across bow