A fascinating collection of model ships has been unveiled that celebrates the River Clyde’s iconic vessels. The new exhibition, "Chariots of Steam," showcases an impressive array of Clyde-built model ships and is now running full steam ahead at the Summerlee Museum in Coatbridge. The models, meticulously crafted by Lachie Stewart, range from paddle steamers to Clyde puffers, offering visitors an insight into the rich history of shipbuilding on the River Clyde.
(Image: North Lanarkshire Council) At the height of the industry, the Clyde was the hub for producing around one-third of the country’s ships. Every kind of ship was built there, from huge ocean liners to pontoons to be transported to rivers around the world . READ MORE: Maid of the Loch campaign boosted by model boat exhibition READ MORE: Glasgow's River Clyde set the standard for shipbuilding It reached its peak in the early 1910s, but it has continued to thrive into the 21st century with the highly-anticipated Type 26 frigate being produced in the BAE Systems yard in Govan.
Visitors can see a variety of ships at the exhibition, including simple half-hull design models and grand display pieces, each illustrating the laborious and complex processes involved in shipbuilding. (Image: Glasgow City Archives) The exhibition also includes representations of some of the most famous ships built on the Clyde, such as the PS Maid of the Loch. The first paddle steamer to be built in Britain, the Maid of the Loch was assembled.