Woodbridge Museum is delighted to have received a gift of this model ship. The donor said his family believed the model was made by William Woodruffe who lived in The Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. We have a copy of Dr Groom’s detailed notes of conversations he had with local people and there is a reference to a” Woodruffe” who made model ships and who was a sailor. Dr Groom’s own notes refer to a full model of the “Newcastle” being a full three rigged mast ship without sails.
Is that a reference this model? Sadly, there is no name on this model. Two of our knowledgeable volunteers think the model is of a whaling ship because the small boats lashed to the sides look like the type used by whalers.
We would love to know more about William Woodruffe and whether our suppositions are correct. So, if you can add to the story we would love to hear from you on enquiries@woodbridgemuseum.com or come in and see us.
