Scale: 1:24. A contemporary full hull model of the 'Firebrand' (1777), a fireship, built plank on frame and finished in the Georgian style. Model is decked, equipped and partially rigged. The interior of the model clearly shows the combustible material such as brushwood and wooden kegs of gunpowder laid out on the lower deck, whilst the port lids are hinged downwards to prevent accidental closing. Extra ventilation shafts have been fitted to assist with the flow of air.

The identification of this model rests solely on its dimensions and stern decoration. Measuring 104 feet in length by 30 feet in the beam and a tonnage of 402 burden, the `Firebrand’ was originally purchased as the merchant sloop ‘Annapolis’ in 1777 and renamed `Porpoise’. It was converted to a fireship in 1778. The role of these ships was to sail as close to the enemy as possible and fasten themselves to the rigging by grappling irons and hooks. At the last moment the Captain and crew would set the fuses and abandon ship by way of the boats being towed astern. There is no record of any active service as a fireship but the ‘Firebrand’ accidentally caught fire and blew up off Falmouth in 1781.