Hi - I am interested in sidewheelers, either passenger or military. There was a ship called the Sheboygan that ran between Chicago and Green Bay in Lake Michigan around 1870 - 1910 that would be great to model. I  also found information on an armed ship called the Harriet Lane that I liked. I suppose I should find something much simpler to start on - any ideas?

Welcome to the madhouse....

You don't say wether your interested in building a static or working model, and an idea of your skill level would help users to give you some ideas as well... Have you done any modelling before? Even if it wasn't model boats?

There's no point taking on something which is beyond your abilities, but having said that, it never ceases to amaze me how some people who have never modelled before can turn out absolute masterpieces.... So don't let your skill level put you off - If your really determined anything is possible!

Hopefully some of our American users can help with suggestions for a suitable subject to model?

Hi - It would have to be a working rc model.
I have built lot of rc airplanes, and one sailboat - the Mirror Dingy (which I managed to tip over and fill with water). The receiver never worked again! Come to think of it, I was only on a full size sailboat once and I tipped that over too. Good thing there were no electronics on it.

G'day captain C,
                       welcome to paddle ducks ....!

Hello Cap. Are the lakes froze over up your way yet? I used to travel through Wisconsin often. I live down in north-east Kentucky on the Ohio River.

Hi Towboatjoe - we have had really warm weather so far this winter, very little snow or even freezing temps. This morning there was a little ice on the pond but it's supposed to get into the high 30's or 40's again this week. Ice fishing is really risky right now!

Around here if you want to go ice fishing you have to bring your own ice.
We did have a bit of snow falling yesterday bit nothing on the ground. It would have been nice to have some for Christmas, but they say the chances of that are now only 30%  they were 50% when I was young, thus according to Weather Canada.
Best Wishes to All for a Happy New Year.
Regards,
Gerald