johnsmachines

I was in a conundrum about how to commence planking the hull of the model heavy frigate, USS Constitution. I had read several books, but was still uncertain about how to proceed. I looked at many photos of frigate models, but was still uncertain. SO, I decided to look at a real model frigate, and found one for sale not too far from where I live. It was not too expensive, and looked lovely in the photos.

And looked absolutely magnificent in reality. Too magnificent really. I doubted that the model which I was making would be in the same league. Should I buy it and toss my efforts in the fire? NO!

Then looking around the sellers shed which contained several other ship models, I spotted this one.

I was torn. I would liked to have bought the frigate AND the 1637 battleship. But knew that SWMBO would definitely not approve. She was waiting in the car. So, I brought her in to make the final choice. She unhesitatingly chose the 1637 “Sovereign of the Seas”. I was not surprised. It glistens with gold plated bronze decorations, and yellowed old sails. It is truly magnificent. Needs some repairs, and some parts are missing.

King Charles (1) of Britain decided that the Royal Navy needed some new battleships, and commissioned the first British ship of more than 100 guns. Named it Sovereign of the Seas. And ordered a new tax to pay for it. Technically he should have gained permission from parliament to levy the tax but as a divinely ordained monarch he was not inclined to ask. And the tax was massively unpopular. The SOTS cost as much as 10 normal battleships, partly due to the sumptuous ornamentation.

And due to incredibly high hull, it proved totally unseaworthy, which fact was never revealed to the tax paying public.

Charles lost his head following the civil war, roundheads vs cavaliers.

Eventually, the top deck of SOTS was removed, and she had a 60 year distinguished career as a very effective, seaworthy battleship. Dictator Oliver Cromwell wanted to remove the ornamentation, but was prevented from doing so by an admiring public. But he did rename SOTS, simply “Sovereign”.

Officially, I am supposed to be in a “decluttering” phase of my life, so I was relieved and pleased that SWMBO had made the final purchase decision. SOTS now lives on our ding room table, and I get a thrill looking at it every time that I walk by. So, no “buyers regret”.

And the frigate? I mentioned it to our GSMEE president. On my description, and the photograph, he telephoned the seller and bought it! And he is absolutely delighted. Am I sorry that I did not buy it myself? Yes and No.