Fascinating collection celebrates River Clyde's iconic ships

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.

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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 in the A&J Inglis shipyard in Glasgow and launched onto the glittering waters of Loch Lomond in 1953.

She wasn’t just a means of getting from A to B, the Maid was marketed as a luxurious liner carrying celebrities, royalty and around three million day-trippers during her 28 years on the water.

Guests could enjoy high tea and lunches on board, and the ship hosted important milestones for visitors such as weddings, dates, engagements and even wakes.

Maid of the Loch (Image: Newsquest)

As holidays abroad became more affordable, the popularity of the Maid deteriorated, and she was decommissioned in 1981. She was saved by the Loch Lomond Steamship Company who are still working on the steamer and want her to be in ‘shipshape’ to be sailing once again.

Lachie Stewart, the man behind this remarkable collection of ships, is a true polymath. Born in Vale of Leven in 1943, Stewart's achievements extend far beyond model making - he earned a gold medal in the 10,000 metres at the 1970 Commonwealth Games.

However, his passion for maritime history and model building has driven him to create an unparalleled collection over the past 60 years.

Lachie Stewart (Image: North Lanarkshire Council)

Reflecting on his journey, Lachie said:  "Creating these models has been my lifelong passion. Each ship tells a story of innovation, perseverance, and the remarkable history of the Clyde.

"I'm thrilled to share this collection with the public and hope it inspires a deeper appreciation for the art of model shipbuilding and the rich maritime heritage of our region."

Summerlee Museum's exhibition promises to be a highlight for history enthusiasts, model makers, and families alike. It offers a unique opportunity to explore these magnificent model ships' intricate beauty and historical significance.

The Chariots of Steam exhibition, free to enter, runs until October 21, 2024.