News

Submarines, Rockets and Boxcars... Oh, My!

2/13/09

Who knew a childhood obsession would turn into an exhibit that inspires thousands?

“I wanted to build a model of the 'Nautilus,'” William Wardrop stated, referring to the submarine featured in the popular Disney movie “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.” “They didn't make a kit for that when I was a kid. Years later, once I learned my modeling technique, that became one of my first models.”

There are many terms to describe Wardrop, but the most accurate would be “engineer” and “artist.” In fact, it's difficult separating those two identities when you visit his work, which is part of the newest Southern Museum exhibit “William Wardrop Creations: Man's Imagination and Machines.”

Inspired mostly by science fiction, Wardrop was working as a cardboard modeler for General Motors when he learned a unique technique that would change his life. “I found out that I could soak cardboard in Super Glue, and it would turn into a plastic-like substance,” he explained. Experimenting with different shapes and sizes of cardboard, Wardrop discovered a whole new way to develop intricately designed models.

Based in Michigan, Wardrop explains that his favorite recreations involve both mythical creations of transportation, as well as those that are very real. “I love rocket ships, and since spending time at the Southern Museum, I'm gaining a true appreciation for locomotives!”

However, Wardrop's true love is for submarines, stemming from his childhood days spent at a lake. “My brother and I built a “City Under the Sea” one summer,” he said. “It was about four feet underneath the surface of the lake … we really had everything, even little people. We spent hours every single day that summer developing our city.” Unfortunately, a harsh winter froze the lake thoroughly that year, destroying Wardrop's hard work. “I still think about setting it up again, even after all these years,” he said wistfully.

At his exhibit at the Southern Museum, Wardrop displays several of his models including his interpretations of the Museum's star attractions, the General and the Merci Boxcar. “I'm particularly proud of the boxcar,” he stated. “I did every single flat with as much exact detail as I possibly could. I also have soldiers in the car. It's a very detailed piece.”

“William Wardrop Creations: Man's Imagination and Machines” opens on February 21 and runs until July 5. Visitors of all ages will be enchanted with Wardrop's creations, and inspiration will surely strike at the “Creativity Station,” where people can create their very own models.

A Smithsonian Institution affiliate, the Southern Museum features collections of rare Civil War weapons, uniforms, and other personal items; an exciting exhibit about The Great Locomotive Chase, including a short movie; and a full-scale replica of a locomotive factory that helped rebuild the South after the war.

The Southern Museum is located 20 miles north of Atlanta, off I-75 at exit 273. For more information, visit www.southernmuseum.org or call (770) 427-2117.