Pat Derby
My interest in modeling started in 2014 just prior to my partial knee replacement surgery. I knew I would need something to keep me busy while I was healing. My first love is working in my workshop, making furniture and odds & ends for my family and friends. Since I was going to be off my feet for a few weeks, I decided to try my luck with a ship model kit from the Hobby Shop. Sounded easy enough. If I can build furniture, I could certainly build one little “boat,” the Constructo Model Albatross, Baltimore 1840, scale 1:55. The picture on the box looked beautiful, and I was excited to get started. Building the Albatross would only take a couple of months at the most. This was the beginning of a nightmare. The instructions were written in seven different languages with words I was very unfamiliar with. I didn’t have a clue where to begin. I’ve never owned a boat or even sailed with anyone. Needless to say, even the parts list was a challenge. Between the instructions, pictures, and my computer I was able to begin my build.
I guess I would still be struggling and very frustrated if I hadn’t seen Bill Clarke at church on Sunday morning and told him about my impossible project. He just laughed and began to tell me about the Hampton Roads Ship Model Society. He told me to come to their next meeting and bring a few of my questions. He was sure there would be someone with some answers. What a great group of men! They not only answered my many questions but continue to encourage me to keep modeling. I have been a member since February 2015 and have been so impressed with everyone’s knowledge, talent, and willingness to help a fellow member.
The Albatross is finished after 2 1/2 years and lot of help from my HRSMS friends. And I have also completed my second build: 1:50 scale 1847 Harvey from Artesania Latina. A big thanks goes to my wife, Jane, for sewing the sails for both projects. Her support and the support from all my HRSMS friends are greatly appreciate.