Tugboat 'Pernis'

This stunning wooden model of the steam powered tugboat 'Pernis' is a work of art in itself. The 90,5 cm long model depicts a typical Rotterdam harbour tug. During the last quarter of the 19th century until after World War II the Rotterdam port was crowded with tugs like these. The first ones steam powered, in later years driven by a diesel engine. Their jobs in the port were numerous. From towing grain-elevators to barges, seagoing ships and all other types of floating machines like sheerlegs and coal bunker machines. They also were used for the transport of passengers and personall. They usually had a crew of just three: captain, steam operator and deckhand. Tugboat 'Pernis' was built in 1890 for the famous L. Smit & Co Tug company which was founded in 1842. In front of the bow of 'Pernis' you see a special feature: a so called ice plough. This device could be attached in front of the bow and made it possible to break the ice if required. The width of the model measures 32,5 cm, the hight is 57,5 cm.