Historical information

This wooden spokeshave was used in the making of ship model Sovereign of the Seas. It would have been used to shave and shape wood in a similar way that a plane would be used. Its name comes from its use for shaping curved objects such as wheel spokes, oars, paddles, chair legs and bows.

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 spokeshave 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 spokeshave 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

Spokeshave; two-handled, medium coloured wood tool, slightly curved centre. The front has two blade screws protruding from it, the back has a flat ‘sole’ with removable brass blade attached by screws. This spokeshave 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

(Illegible text is pressed into the top side of the spoke shave.)