The North Carolina coast has a storied tradition of boat building. It’s as much art as it is craft, and each stage of the work — from design and lofting through sanding and painting — is done by hand.
It’s a meticulous labor of love. And it’s one carried on today by members of the Carolina Maritime Model Society but on a smaller scale.
Much smaller.
Members of the Carolina Maritime Model Society showcase their respective works as part of the Annual Wooden Boat Show in the auditorium of the N.C. Maritime Museum in Beaufort.
William Prentice, a member of the club, estimates there are typically around 50 works on display at the exhibition — a popular draw during the show.
“I think people just like to see the intricacy of modeling,” he said, noting the work that goes into taking a 155-foot boat and turning it into a 15-inch model. “People just seem to be fascinated by that.”
The models on display are also up for judging for selection as the “Spectators’ Choice” award, which goes to the most popular model as voted on by visitors.
Prentice said members of the Carolina Maritime Model Society enjoy the show as well since they can get their work seen and potentially generate interest in model making. Those interested in learning more can stop by the John S. MacCormack Ship Model Shop at the Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center.
The North Carolina Maritime Museum is located at 315 Front Street, Beaufort, NC 28516. For more information about the museum, visit www.ncmaritimemuseumbeaufort.com.