Have you ever heard of a clever inventor named Blanche Thornycroft? She played a huge role in creating the CMB 4 torpedo boat, a fast and powerful vessel designed to protect the sea!
Born in the 19th century, Blanche wasn’t afraid to break the mould in a time when engineering was mostly seen as a man’s job. She was passionate about boats and worked alongside her family to design incredible marine vessels.
The CMB, or Coastal Motor Boat, could speed through water and launch torpedoes, making it an important part of naval battles. Blanche’s hard work and brilliant ideas helped change the way wars were fought on the ocean.
Her story inspires young inventors everywhere, showing that with creativity and determination, anyone can make a difference. Gear up and think like Blanche Thornycroft and become a brilliant inventor by designing exciting new vessels in the world of invention and innovation!
You might be able to spot two torpedo boats in Boathouse 4. The original CMB 4 that Blanche Thornycroft helped to create is upstairs and is over 100 years old. Downstairs you might see a bright white boat named CMB 4R. This is a scale replica of the original design, built by our very own (and very talented) Volunteers here, in Boathouse 4!
Can you design a boat that’s different? Better? New?
Blanche Thornycroft tested hundreds of boats in secret to make them faster and stronger. Now it’s your turn! Use your imagination to design a boat that could solve a problem, explore the seas, or float in a new way.
What job will your boat do? Rescue? Explore? Race?
How will it move? Sails? Solar power? Wings?
What makes it special or different?
Grab your activity sheet and get inspired!
Event Details
Boathouse 4
11:00am-3:00pm, Aug 13-14