Merchant & Fishing Craft   Modern Era Vessels   Historic Sailing Ships   Listing Application
 
Tug Dearborn
Patrick Matthews
Michigan Scale Model Boat Club and Nautical Research Guild


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HistoryTugboat "Dearborn"; this modern twin-diesel tug was built in 1932 for the Ford Motor Company, and was tasked with ore ship handling at Ford's Rouge plant.
The ModelModel is scratch-built with minimal use of commercial detail parts. Designed for radio-control, the model may be provided for static display if desired. Hull is plank over glue-laminated ribs and is fully lacquered inside, followed by a fiberglass coating. Exterior is fully plated and riveted. Cabin structure is aircraft plywood sheathed in styrene sheet for a steel-like finish. Built from original Great Lakes Engineering Works plans and original Ford photos. Scale is 1:24, for a 42-inch long model. Completed 2008.
The ArtistPatrick Matthews is an automotive engineer in Detroit, but greatly enjoys getting home to his modeling. Patrick has authored a book on model boat construction as well as numerous articles in "Ships in Scale" magazine. He enjoys the mechanical challenge of operable R/C models, and his subjects have included tugs, the steel navy, and fishing schooners. Commission work is invited.
ContactPatrick Matthews at patmat2350@sbcglobal.net

 
Merchant & Fishing Craft : Modern Era Vessels : Historic Sailing Ships : Listing Application