Katy of Norfolk

by Model Shipways

Scale

1:48 (1/4 in=1 ft, O)

Construction

Solid Hull

Skill level

2 / 6

Status

Available

Dimensions (mm)

20 × 4 × 18

Prototype ship: Virginia Built Vessel (Generic)

Toward the end of the 18th century, “Virginia built” boats were used as pilot boats from the Delaware Capes to Hatteras. Between 1785 and 1805, these fast and handy vessels were also used by the British and French navies as dispatch boats and tenders. The French developed a preference for them as privateers, and inflicted severe losses on the British merchant marine. During the American Revolution and the War of 1812, the U.S. government issued privateering commissions to many privately owned vessels of this type.