Steamboat Mississippi paddle wheel 1-80 scale model - OcCre

The history of Mississippi steamboats in the 19th century

The first steamboats on the great American river

The Mississippi model by OcCre does not reproduce a historically identified ship.

It represents a family of steamboats that marked American river transport in the 19th century.

In 1811, the New Orleans descended the Mississippi from Pittsburgh, ushering in a new era for steam navigation.

A few years later, in 1816, the Washington introduced a double-deck architecture that helped define the characteristic silhouette of these boats.

These vessels provided connections between cities along the Mississippi, especially on routes linking New Orleans to northern regions.

They played an important role in the transportation of passengers and goods.

Floating palaces propelled by a paddle wheel

Mississippi steamboats were distinguished by their wooden structures, superimposed decks, and large paddle wheel driven by a steam engine.

This propulsion allowed them to navigate waterways without depending on the wind.

Some of these boats were nicknamed "floating palaces" because of their accommodations for travelers.

They became symbols of American navigation, especially through the writings of author Mark Twain, whose work remains associated with life on the Mississippi.

The OcCre model recreates the appearance of these historical riverboats and allows for the discovery of a different form of naval architecture than that of seafaring vessels.

Why build the OcCre Mississippi model?

A wooden boat model with a paddle wheel

The main feature of the Mississippi is its paddle wheel, a characteristic element of 19th-century steam riverboats.

Unlike sailboat models, this model does not focus on replicating complex masts and rigging, but on assembling a multi-level structure.

The construction involves working with laser-cut wooden elements, metal parts, and architectural details of the boat. The paddle wheel is a central element of the finished model's silhouette.

A historic riverboat for naval modeling enthusiasts

This wooden antique boat model is aimed at enthusiasts of river navigation, American boats, and 19th-century transportation history.

It allows for the creation of a model different from galleons, frigates, and other sailing ships.

The Mississippi can complement a collection dedicated to historical boats or serve as a centerpiece in a display highlighting the major American waterways.

Technical specifications of the 1-80 scale Mississippi model

Scale, dimensions, and OcCre reference

Brand: OcCreModel: MississippiManufacturer reference: 14003Ship type: Steam riverboat with paddle wheelRepresented era: 19th centuryProduct type: Wooden boat model kitScale: 1-80Number of pieces: 1,702Length of finished model: 740 mm (74 cm)Height of finished model: 325 mm (32.5 cm)Width of finished model: 150 mm (15 cm)Difficulty level: Advanced (level 3 out of 4)Estimated assembly time: 650 hoursBox dimensions: 625 × 410 × 89 mm

With a length of 74 cm and a width of 15 cm, the Mississippi has an elongated silhouette. Its height of 32.5 cm allows for a display in a showcase, provided there is enough space to protect the details and protruding parts of the model.

What materials are included in the OcCre Mississippi kit?

The manufacturer uses several materials to reproduce different parts of the boat:

Various types of wood: components for the structure, coverings, and visible finishes. Laser-cut planks help identify the pieces needed for various assembly stages.

Photo-etched brass: engraved metal elements for fine details.

Die-cast Zamak: small metal pieces and accessories used to complement the boat's equipment.

Cotton: threads of varying thickness and textile elements for necessary details.

The wooden components are FSC Mix Credit certified by OcCre, combining wood from FSC-certified forests and controlled FSC wood.

Figures representing characters to scale are not included in the kit.

What skill level is required to build the Mississippi model?

An advanced boat model

OcCre categorizes the Mississippi as level 3 out of 4, indicating an advanced level of difficulty.

This category is aimed at experienced modelers capable of working on complex constructions requiring precision and method.

Despite having fewer pieces than some large historic sailboats, the Mississippi represents a challenging project.

Building the different bridges, assembling the paddle wheel, and adding the details require careful following of the manufacturer's instructions.

For a first experience in naval modeling, a beginner level 1 boat model will be more appropriate.

The Mississippi is more suitable for a builder who has already acquired the basic techniques of assembling wooden models.

How long does it take to assemble the OcCre Mississippi?

The manufacturer estimates the construction time to be around 650 hours.

This duration is indicative and may vary depending on the modeler's experience, work pace, and attention to adjustments and finishes.

To organize this project, it is advisable to divide the assembly into several phases, preparing the parts before each step and checking the assemblies as you progress.

The multi-level structure requires following the construction order specified in the instructions.

How to prepare for assembling the Mississippi steamboat?

OcCre Construction Notice and Instructions

OcCre provides downloadable assembly instructions for reference 14003.

These documents allow you to review the different construction stages and anticipate the necessary operations.

Before starting, it is recommended to go through the instructions, identify the wooden planks, and classify the metal elements.

Special attention should be paid to the steps concerning the paddle wheel and the different levels of the structure.

What tools, glues, and paints are needed for the Mississippi?

Building this wooden boat model requires tools suitable for handling and adjusting the components.

Working on laser-cut wooden pieces, photo-etched brass elements, and zamak accessories requires assembly techniques adapted to each material.

Prior to assembly, consult the OcCre instructions to determine the necessary tools, glues, paints, and finishing products.

For finishes, the choice of paints and varnishes should consider the model's materials and the desired outcome.

The manufacturer's instructions help prepare the surfaces and follow the assembly steps.

Remember to order the additional accessories along with the model!

The tools, accessories, and products needed for assembling and finishing the model are not included.

We have selected the main items useful for its construction.

For simplicity and cost savings, order them together with your model:

In metropolitan France, shipping is free for orders over €150.

Simply check the boxes above for the items you want to add to your order.

How to display the Mississippi steamboat model?

An American 19th-century boat for a naval collection

Once completed, the Mississippi can join a collection dedicated to riverboats, historic steamships, or 19th-century American transportation.

Its paddle wheel and superimposed decks are the main elements to highlight.

An appropriate display case can be considered to prevent dust accumulation on the different boat structures.

The manufacturer's information does not specify if a presentation base is included in the kit.

Integrating the Mississippi into a river diorama

This model can serve as the centerpiece of a diorama depicting navigation on the Mississippi in the 19th century.

A scene representing a river dock, a pier, or a section of the river would help place the boat in its historical environment.

The additional elements must adhere to the 1-80 scale to maintain consistent proportions.

Passenger figures and decorative accessories should be planned separately, as the manufacturer notes that scale characters are not included.

Frequently Asked Questions about the OcCre Mississippi model

Is the Mississippi model suitable for beginners?

No. The Mississippi is classified as advanced, level 3 out of 4 on the OcCre difficulty scale.

It is intended for modelers with experience in assembling wooden models who wish to undertake a complex project.

What are the dimensions of the completed Mississippi model?

At a 1-80 scale, the model measures 74 cm in length, 32.5 cm in height, and 15 cm in width. These dimensions correspond to the fully assembled model.

Is the paddle wheel of the Mississippi motorized?

The manufacturer's information presents the Mississippi as a static wooden boat model for modeling purposes.

No motor or functional propulsion device is mentioned.

The paddle wheel is reproduced as a characteristic element of the historic boat.

Does the OcCre Mississippi replicate a specific historical boat?

No. The model represents a family of steamboats that navigated the Mississippi in the 19th century.

It is inspired by their characteristic architecture, with a large paddle wheel and superimposed bridges, without reproducing a specific ship.

Are passenger figurines included in the kit?

No. OcCre specifies that figures representing characters to scale are not provided.

They must be purchased separately to complete a display or create a diorama.

Are paints and tools included with the model?

The OcCre sheet details the main construction materials, but does not confirm the presence of paints, glues, or tools.

It is recommended to consult the assembly instructions to identify the necessary supplies before starting.

Can the assembly instructions for the Mississippi be downloaded?

Yes. OcCre offers downloadable construction instructions for reference 14003.

They allow you to prepare for assembly and follow the different assembly steps.

Can replacement parts be obtained for this model?

OcCre announces a lifetime warranty on the parts of its kits. The manufacturer offers a free replacement service for damaged or lost parts during construction, according to the conditions of its warranty.