Millennium Modelmakers' Showcase

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is already home to one of the finest collections of ship models in Canada, and this weekend the museum will be inundated with even more.

For the 16th year, Nova Scotia modelmakers will gather in Halifax to display their craftsmanship. Hosted annually by the museum, The Modelmakers' Showcase is an opportunity for the modelmakers to exchange ideas and also to share their passion with the public.

This year's showcase promises to be the largest show in the event's history. In 1998, almost 70 model builders put more than 150 models on display, a weekend show enjoyed by more than 3,300 visitors. This year, there are more than 80 model builders registered to show more than 200 of their works.

"There are a surprising number of people throughout Nova Scotia who practice the craft of model building as a hobby or, in a few cases, a profession," said Gerry Lunn, curator of visitor services with the Maritime Museum. "It is also a craft which has a long history in Nova Scotia. The model builders whom the public have a chance to meet this weekend are carrying on a rich tradition which we feel is important to share with our visitors."

The museum has worked for many years with the Maritime Ship Model Guild to present The Modelmakers' Showcase.

"The opportunity to participate in this very special event is the highlight of my model making career" said John Green, who has participated in the showcase since 1996. "We (members of the guild) are achieving our dreams of keeping this particular heritage of Nova Scotia alive and we're thrilled."

The public is invited and encouraged to attend anytime between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturday, April 15, or between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 16. The Maritime Museum is located at 1675 Lower Water St. on the Halifax waterfront.

Admission to the event is free but donations can be made to the museum. As well, the Metro Food Bank is accepting donations of non-perishable food items.