A contemporary full hull model of a Greathead lifeboat circa 1790, built plank on frame at a scale of 1:12. The hull is double-ended with a distinct curve or sheer in shape and built with clinker planking on heavy wooden frames. It is fitted internally with cork blocks, for additional buoyancy, around the gunwale underneath the thwarts, or seating. It is also fitted with an external cork banding again for buoyancy as well as providing extra protection when coming alongside a casualty. Being double-ended, it can be rowed in either direction and was pulled by up to twelve oars (nine missing) on thole pins, with a larger single oar (missing) over the stern for steering.

Henry Greathead’s ‘Original’ of 1789 is recognised as the first ever purpose-built lifeboat. The heavy clinker hull was fitted with cork both internally and externally, for added buoyancy. This model illustrates a later sailing version, with drop-keels and a rudder and is thought never to have been built. It is interesting to note that the idea of drop keels may well have came from a probable acquaintance with Captain John Schank (1740-1823), the pioneer of drop keels (models SLR0601 ‘Lady Nelson’ and SLR0344 frigate) both of whom shared a common patron, The Duke of Northumberland.