'Chariots of Steam' at the Scottish Maritime Museum

‘Chariots of Steam’ celebrates the works of master model maker Lachie Stewart.

The exhibition features seven meticulously built model ships including ships built by Clyde shipbuilders William Denny and Brothers, on whose site the Museum now stands, and Ferguson Brothers.

Born in Vale of Leven, West Dunbartonshire, in 1943, Lachie Stewart, who also enjoyed a successful athletic career winning a Gold in the 10,000 metres at the 1970 Commonwealth Games, began model building at 16 years of age.

His spectacular collection of 75 model ships, many of which are held in private and public collections, range from elegant paddle steamers to the lifeline Clyde puffers, and from simple half-hull design models to magnificent display models.

Models on display include PS Caledonia which was built by William Denny and Brothers Shipyard in Dumbarton in 1934 and NLV Pole Star and the Flying Phantom, both of which were built by Ferguson Brothers in Port Glasgow.

Other vessels featured are PS Maid of the Loch, Volcano, the Kathleen M Stewart and Sealight Greenock.