The Phantom and sister ship Pet were built in 1868 to serve as pilot ships on the East Coast. These pilot ships were known to be fast sailing ships. Perhaps this was a reason why on 14 March 1886, Phantom was first to reach the British ocean liner S.S. Oregon as she was sinking near Long Island.  The crew of Phantom oversaw the rescue of over 850 individuals – 400 that sailed to safety on Phantom. Phantom sunk during the Great Blizzard of March 1888, with 6 crewmembers losing their lives.

The basis for this model is the 1:48 scale Model Shipways kit for Phantom.  I am enhancing this kit greatly: the deck is planked in Holly with waterways made from Swiss Pear; many details, including deck furniture, masts, and bulwarks will be made from Costello Boxwood. The use of these fine woods will make the model quite special.  High quality blocks and rigging material will be used to finish the model. Additionally, the cockpit area has been lowered below the deck as in the original ship. The upper hull will be painted black, while below the waterline there will be copper plates. The deck and masting will be left ‘bright’. 

Since the model is currently under construction, the client would have an opportunity to determine final presentation of the model. For example, the model could be presented with or without sails.

The completed model will be 27″ long and high. The model does not have a large footprint due to its schooner rig; in fact the model is just 5″ wide – so the model will be convenient to display and you can be assured this will be a exquisite model to own.