Models of Lifeboats
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Glasgow Museums has a small collection of models of lifeboats. A lifeboat is a small seaworthy, easily launched vessel with increased buoyancy, designed to preserve life at sea. They are designed to be either carried by a larger ship for use in emergencies at sea, or to be based on shore and ready to respond to requests for aid. Purpose-bult lifeboats were used in the UK from the late 18th century and life-saving at sea was approached scientifically from the 1840s in response to maritime and coastal disasters. Most of the models in Glasgow Museums collection are full-hull models designed for display at exhibition, or are patent-type models to illustrate new types of craft, or new methods of launching them. The oldest model in the collection dates from 1869 and shows a rowing lifeboat built through subscription for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. Other models show different ways of supporting and launching lifeboats on board ships and a motor powered Barnet-class lifeboat from the 1930s. In addition to these models, many of the larger full-hull display models have lifeboats modelled as part of their deck detailing.
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