Step into a powerful moment of Civil War history—on a miniature scale. “Up in Flames: Union Navy Ships Destroyed in 1861” is now on display at The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures through April 4, 2025. This unique exhibit spotlights eleven detailed models of Union ships that were burned by their own forces in a desperate move to prevent them from falling into Confederate hands.
On April 20, 1861, just days after the start of the Civil War, the U.S. Navy made the difficult decision to scuttle and destroy key vessels at the Gosport Navy Yard in Virginia. “Up in Flames” brings that historic day to life through highly detailed miniatures, capturing the craftsmanship of the era and the chaos of a country on the brink of division.
One of the featured ships is the USS Raritan, a three-masted frigate that met its fiery end during the evacuation. Each model is accompanied by context that explains its place in the event, along with background on the early days of the conflict that changed American history forever.
Details at a Glance:
Whether you're a history buff or a fan of miniatures, this exhibit offers a rare and riveting window into one of the lesser-known naval events of the Civil War. It’s history, in intricate detail.
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