Scale: 1:32 The model depicts a swim-head barge (circa 1940) typical of the hundreds that were used to carry cargo of every description on London’s rivers and docks. The specially designed hull embodies over 200 years of experience on the River Thames and, for its purpose, could probably not be improved. These barges, or lighters, are used to lighten or load larger vessels already alongside or lying at anchor in the tideway and they undertake a variety of cargo handling duties. The earlier lighters could be handled singly by one licensed lighterman using a sweep, or long oar, but larger designs, such as this example, require handling by tugs.

The model is as uncomplicated and unfussy as the craft it depicts, with a limited range of materials used. The Museum purchased it direct from the shipbuilders, James Pollock & Sons Ltd.