"concretion" encrusted cannon

As one of the most recognizable and renowned pirates in all of sailing lore, Blackbeard (Edward Teach) sailed throughout the Caribbean and up the North American east coast for three years in the early 1700s, building his fleet, wealth, and legend in the process.  The Queen Anne’s Revenge, dreaded flagship of his fleet, came to be known as a formidable vessel; one that was sadly sunk in 1718 as Blackbeard absconded with a wealth of loot. Based on Oracoke Island, on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, Blackbeard ran the ship aground following a week’s long blockade of the harbor in Charleston. Now, some 300 years later, the treasures of this sunken beauty are coming to the surface, exciting the minds and imaginations of scientists and nautical enthusiasts alike. As the largest underwater archeological project in America, the Queen Anne’s Revenge site has fascinated scientists since 1997, with multiple artifacts discovered, studied, and placed on display in museums throughout the country. As some of the grandest prizes, however, the massive cannons from the ship were exceptional finds, treasure troves of great historic import. Twelve cannons have been discovered thus far, with the newest one recently making headlines as it was raised from the wreckage. At 8 feet long, covered with “concretion,” or layers of sediment that form a hard shell, the cannon is a magnificent puzzle that must be carefully unlocked over the course of the next few years.

HMS 24" model of Queen Anne's Revenge

Though Blackbeard had received a pardon following his initial pirate activities, after a brief respite from the sea he soon returned in search of further plunder, leading soon afterwards to his death. Following his success in blockading the port of Charleston, Blackbeard became a much sought after target, pursued by British Lieutenant Robert Maynard under charge of Virgina Governor Alexander Spotswood. In what would prove to be his final battle, Blackbeard and his remaining crew were discovered in late November, 1718, and quickly blockaded by Maynard’s fleet before coming under attack. Returning fire,  Blackbeard’s pirates leapt aboard Maynard’s seemingly empty vessel only to be surprised by sailors hidden below decks. During the brief battle the legendary pirate was struck down by blade, with Maynard taking Blackbeard’s head as a trophy; hanging it from the bow of his ship as he sailed triumphantly back to shore. Though Blackbeard’s life at sea was cut short, he left the world with his fascinating story and a legendary ship that now, 300 years later, is met not with dread, but pure fascination and wonder.

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Early last month, September 10^th and 11^th, Handcrafted Model Ships was delighted to take part in the annual Dana Point Tall Ship Festival! Though a little rain started the day, sunny skies prevailed and the festival took off to great success. With most of the company on hand, including a very special appearance by Captain Dick himself, we all enjoyed the company of many new friends, a few familiar faces, and everyone involved in making this fabulous festival happen. Over two days we were able to display various ship models and discuss them in person with the ship enthusiasts who had come out for a day of sailing fun, history, and beautiful Southern California weather. As the majority of our business takes place online, these festivals are always a welcomed respite from the office, allowing us a chance to meet our customers in person, and perhaps give fans a chance to talk one on one with Captain Dick.

Aside from our booth, practically overflowing with the numerous ship models and other amazing nautical décor, yummy food booths provided perfect afternoon snacks, while tours were available aboard a few fantastic sailing vessels! It was truly amazing seeing all of the attendees in proud sailing spirit; some completely decked out in full pirate regalia! And you all thought Captain Jack Sparrow was only in the movies…anyway, a very festive mood was in the air, with people of all ages, from children to grandparents, all having a wonderful time exploring, shopping, and stopping in to visit and talk about our models.

There’s not much more one can ask for; good company, great weather, delicious food, and the serene Pacific stretching out into the distance. It was great to soak in the sun, get lost in the enchanting atmosphere, and really it’s always an incredible feeling talking with our customers in person, putting a face to a name, and truly getting to know them all. We love getting feedback, and especially seeing faces light up when we show off our new ship models, or just hanging out and talking shop, chatting about sailing. Though it was only a brief two days, we thoroughly enjoyed out time in beautiful Dana Point, had a blast touring the magnificent ships at port, snacking on the amazing food there, and of course talking about the thing we love most – Sailing!

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Nautical Decor

As a model ship collector that took your time and money to purchase the finest quality model ships available, you want your investments to be proudly displayed in a room just as enchanting as your models. It is for this reason that there are many ways to create a captivating nautical themed room. At handcraftedmodelships.com you have access to such decor items as: compasses, diving helmets, nautical clocks, sextants, ship bells, ship wheels, spy glasses, telescopes, and more! These decor items will give your display room the authenticity that it craves. Visitors to your nautical room will be astounded by the level of dedication you have poured into your hobby, and most importantly, you will be able to revel in your delightful model ship collection in a room worthy enough to house them.

Nautical Decor

A great way to get started decorating your nautical room is to purchase a decorative brass plaque. These plaques come in six variations, and can be hung anywhere you choose. For instance, the plaque that reads “Crews Quarters” makes a great door sign that informs your guests that they are about to step into a true nautical room. For the same reason the sign that reads “Skipper” could also be used. If you want to keep your models away from the harmful effects of smoking, or just want to be ironic, then the “No Smoking” plaque will fall right into place. There are many others such as “Captain”, “Head”, and “Poop Deck” that can be used to decorate your room as well.

The Brass Porthole Hampton Nautical Mirrors are great ways to add authenticity to your room. These mirrors can be slung over your models to give the illusion that you are truly aboard a sea going vessel. Or they can be strategically placed to mirror the images of your models. Either way, they make excellent nautical additions that will compliment your model collection.

Ship Wheel Clocks are fantastic additions that go well with decorating nautical rooms. They are made out of the finest woods available, and can be bought in various sizes. Having a ship wheel in your nautical room is nearly mandatory, as it cements your dedication to the hobby and craft.

Spy Glasses are great decor items that can be kept on your desk. These little items are luxuriously designed with either leather, wood grain, or brass grips. Add a touch of class to your work bench with these decor items.

If you simply just have your model ship collection off to the side or corner of your basement then that will not do. A real model ship enthusiast will want to play up their model ship hobby and compliment it the best they can. The aforementioned items are great starter items to begin decorating your nautical room with. Visit the decor items section of handcraftedmodelships.com to view all of the decor items available to you!

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