The Tufts Public Library, in partnership with the USS Constitution Model Shipwright Guild, proudly presents the 2nd annual Masters of Miniatures: Ship Model Exhibit. The exhibit, opening on Monday, October 2, 2023, showcases the intricate and spectacular handcrafted models from local modelers. The Masters of Miniatures exhibit will run from October 2 through October 6, 2023. The exhibit is open to all visitors from 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. daily. Ship modeling is an art as old as shipbuilding itself and provides a glimpse into each vessels' remarkable history and design. The process reveals much about the original shipbuilder’s design, engineering, form, and functional considerations as they built a ship to accomplish a specific purpose.

This year’s Model Exhibit showcases over 30 exquisite, handcrafted models created by Guild members across New England. From Viking Longships to pleasure craft of today and everything in-between, the show includes many types of vessels made by skilled Modelers representing both Master Craftsmen and a new generation of modelers. Members of the Guild will be available daily to answer questions and demonstrate the craft of model building. Library visitors can vote for their favorite model and a list of the top three wining models will be posted in the library and online.

Among the exhibited models will be the USS Constitution built by Mr. Larry Ward, a Guild member from Scituate. This beautiful model's claim to fame is that it was on display in Barack Obama’s White House from 2014 to 2016. While there, it resided in the West Wing just outside the Situation Room. 

In addition, Tom Lauria, a Guild member will be presenting a lecture on schooners in general and including special emphasis on the Alice S. Wentworth. Mr. Lauria’s lecture will take place on Wednesday, October 4 from 7:00 – 8:00 PM. Please register to attend.