Steam yachts "Shamrock" & "Columbia"

A set of steam yachts, part of a larger collection of fairground models which came in recently including gallopers, an organ and juvenile roundabout

Modelled on a set built in 1901 by Savages for the Waddington family, managed in the early days by the owner's brother-in-law, Sam Lee.

Named "Columbia" and "Shamrock" after two yachts which raced for the Americas cup, first in 1899, the ride was toured between the wars by Sam Lee's son, Harry. On his discharge from the army after the second world war, Harry restored the ride and toured with it extensively in the 1950s and 60s before finally selling it to Fred Coupland on his retirement.

A well-observed, nicely detailed older model, now requiring some restoration. Driven by an electric motor in the base it runs, however whilst the bandmaster's arm conducts with vigour, you don't get a lot of "swing" from the yachts.