Rattlesnake 30"

Ready for Immediate Display - Not a Model Ship kit 

Fine craftsmanship and attention to detail highlight this scale tall model ship replica of the USS Rattlesnake, an early American privateer later purchased by the US Navy during the war of 1812. Whether seated upon a shelf, desk or table, these USS Rattlesnake tall ship models proudly displays their exquisitely-crafted features and indomitable historic and patriotic spirit. 

30" Long x 10" Wide x 20" High (1:82 scale)

• Built from scratch by master artisans
• Individual wooden planks used in hull construction
• High quality woods include cherry, birch, maple and rosewood
• Extensive rigging over 100 blocks and deadeyes in this tall model ship
• Gun ports actually cut into the hull
• Amazing Details, including:
  • Planked deck with nail holes
  • Authentic scale lifeboats
  • Rudder chains, cannonball racks
  • Fine carved detailing on the stern
  • Solid brass cannons and metal anchors
  • Additional deck details such as cannon balls, barrels, etc.
  • Masterfully stitched, heavy canvas sails hold shape and do not wrinkle
  • Taut rigging with varied thread gauge and color
• Meticulous painting accurately matches the actual USS Rattlesnake
• Wooden display base features four arched dolphins
  • Pictured with marble base (available for purchase)
• Extensive research of original plans, historical drawings and paintings as well as actual photographs ensures the highest possible accuracy

The Revolutionary War privateer RATTLESNAKE was designed in 1779-80 by John Peck, a Boston naval architect.

The original RATTLESNAKE was built in Plymouth Massachusetts, and in style resembled a miniature frigate, which had a separate quarter deck and forecastle. These features are rather unusual for a privateer. She carried up to 20 guns, (Probably six and nine pounders) and had a usual complement of 85 men.

Little is known of her career except that it was brief. Late in 1781, she was captured by the British frigate ASSURANCE (44 guns) and taken into the Royal Navy as the COMMORANT (14 guns). Sometime around 1784 she was renamed RATTLESNAKE and soon afterwards sold out of the British Navy.

The vessel was unusually fast, and her hull lines were recorded by the British Admiralty after her capture and have come down to us today.