Fine Cased Presentation Builder’s Model of the S.S.Tamaqua Cargo Ship, Launched in Glasgow in 1910 + Built by Napier & Miller

The model of particularly large scale and fine quality, contained within an oak glazds case on contemporary bespoke stand. The model worked in intricate detail and incorporating brass fixtures and fittings. The original paintwork surviving in virtually untouched condition. S. Tamaqua: As might be imagined given that the ship was named after a borough in Pennsylvania, Tamaqua worked the trans-Atlantic route for many years. Built by Napier and Miller in Glasgow, as commemorated on the plaque attached to the case which also includes the vital statistics of the vessel, she was originally named Den of Glamis and was built for Charles Barrie and Co who owned her until 1915. At this point she was sold to Furness Withy and Co for use as a cargo vessel. She was in use on this route until 1922 when sold to new Japanese owners Gyoku Maru who continued to operate her until she sank in 1944 after an explosion in Naha harbour. Details about the vessel and her various owners, as well as the location of the wreck, may be viewed online here The site also including a 1933 image of the vessel under Japanese ownership. Some of the Tamaqua’s cargo over the years included Scotch whiskey, imported in to America by various Philadelphia merchants such as John Wagner and Sons who closed in 1918. Bottles of commemorative whiskey were bottled for the firm featuring provenance labels mentioning the vessel on which they were transported and the spirit is highly collectable The present model was probably made for Napier and Miller and transferred to the new owners in 1915 when a plaque with the new name was attached to the case. Alternatively it may have remained with Napier and Miller throughout, the firm choosing to change the name on the case for accuracy at the aforementioned time.