This month Albany is celebrating the Mariner’s Festival, so it seemed appropriate to talk to a boat builder. Norm McQuade has been making model boats on and off since childhood, so it was great to spend time hearing his story and looking at his collection of model boats.
I was fascinated at the degree of intricacy that was evident in these model boats, testament to Norm’s patience and commitment to the task. It is also a walk back in history to see boats from the 19th and early 20th century and to hear their story.
Norm’s model of the Brig Amity, a boat with special links to Albany, is one of a kind. He undertook extensive research, including doing measurements from the replica that stands near Albany port. Then there’s the Endeavour, a Newfoundland Whaling Boat, and the amazing ornate hull of the frigate, HMS Fly.
This video tells the story of one man’s personal hobby, but it also opens up a wealth of maritime history.
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