I have always been a model builder, but years ago I started building samples of Chesapeake working boats for reference related to my profession as a fine artist specializing in Bay subjects.
I get to crew aboard a retired skipjack and haunt the local workboat yards for even more reference material! I take a lot of photos of odds and ends because I never know what I might want another look of while drawing. Sadly, I have watched many old subjects and objects fade away.
My models are accurate, but not super detailed...that would ratchet up the time to completion and make them to delicate to handle...I have little details I can add or remove to accessorize them for photographing or sketching. Since they are all 1/4 inch scale, I can even add O-gauge train figures to establish human scale figures on the deck. I also make architectural models of Bay lighthouses as well. These are great for lighting and shadows. When I add details to the paintings from my own photographs of the boats and lighthouses, and things seen in old photos, I can put together a respectable historical...indeed, many of paintings feature things that aren't here anymore!
I'd like to thank all you other builders out there for sharing your wonderful work, and if I can supply any photos or info related to Chesapeake boats, I will help if I can.
Cheers!