A Miniature Fleet Docks in Lerwick
Shetland Amenity Trust has announced delivery of the very first scale models commissioned for the Shetland Museum and Archives.
The three intricately-constructed models have been funded by Lerwick Port Authority. Their delivery marks the first stage of a generous programme of support by the Lerwick Port Authority for the Museum and Archives, which will help the public understand the importance of the port in Shetland’s history and its standing today.
The models are of a German coastal trading vessel used in Hanseatic trade in the 1600’s; a Dutch East India vessel from the 1600’s; and a Dutch Herring buss from the 1700’s. They were made in studios in Amsterdam by Dutch model-makers Artitec, and commissioned specifically to fill gaps in the Museum’s collection and to demonstrate how influential other European countries were in Shetland’s maritime history.
Lerwick Port Authority’s sponsorship and ongoing funding programme will support a number of other interpretative projects, both within the Museum and Archives and around the port itself. These include a large-scale 3-D model charting the evolution of Lerwick from its early beginnings to a thriving and prosperous port; interpretative boards at Hay’s Dock and other points of interest; and multi-media & interactive displays inside the Museum and Archives including a planned ‘virtual harbour pilot’ simulator. The sponsorship will also support a substantial programme of research into the history and development of Lerwick Harbour through the Archives.
Allan Wishart, Chief Executive of Lerwick Port Authority, said:
‘We are delighted to be seeing our funding becoming reality in work of such craftsmanship. The early history of the port is reflected in these models which recall the international flavour of the port over the centuries. Shetland depends upon the sea and Lerwick harbour has always been an important link in that relationship.'
Jimmy Moncrieff, General Manager of Shetland Amenity Trust, said:
‘Support from the LPA has been very important in ensuring the displays and interpretation are of a world-class standard, to allow the Shetland Museum and Archives to tell Shetland’s story in the best possible way. Working closely with LPA has also provided vital links with the thriving modern port, an advantage that is as important as the funding.’