Hi, my friends! 
@ John, how are you, mate? Thanks so much for the very kind words, I'm a middling modeler compared to the rest of the gang here, but I do have fun trying to enhance this kit...slow process, as I've mentioned, as I am doing a bit of trial and error, but that's the fun in it as I see it.
That's not a bad idea, actually, sizing up a gun station. You remember the combat station kit that was out there? No reason it can't be done in paper, no reason at all...just takes a bit of forethought and desire, and it can be yours.
@ Leif, my friend, I can think of no other person who would manage to make an outstanding model of the boat, but do stay in your larger scale...I really think you should give it a go. If you want, I do have a set of plans for the ships boats that might be helpful in starting out. If you want, you can try it at a smaller scale too.
@ Oliver: you are right, my dear Sir, Constellation in Boston is actually an 1854 "newly" designed sloop of war, not the original frigate from the original frigates under the Act of 1794 which gave birth to the U.S. Navy. Mind you, a very beautiful ship, she is, but I think the Baltimore conservers have finally admitted the history of their ship is not what what originally claimed.
@ Jörg: It really pleases me that my little ship causes such wonderful memories for you. I have a very similar experience. For Father's day a few years ago my wife entered the lottery they have for the turn-about cruise they have in Charlestown every 4th of July...now, mind you, having a particular affection for this ship for many, many years, I have entered that lottery every year for the last ten or so years, and was never lucky enough to be chosen. My wife, however, in addition to entering the lottery apparently wrote to the Constitution crew and explained to them my love of this ship and, well, she of course got us two tickets as honored guests for that year's cruise. Well, you can imagine I was like a kid in a candy shop with a pocket full of money! I took quite a few pictures (adding to my already substantial collection), but of all sorts of details, and was floating a few feet off the ground for months! I don't know how to explain it, but this ship just brings out such emotions in those who are lucky enough to see her in person, and I am proud to admit I am one of them. She is truly a national treasure, whose importance is only enhanced when you begin to learn a bit more about her and her history. I have been doing that, on and off, for about 28 years now.
And that, my dear friends, is a part of why I love this ship and am so very happy to build this little model. My joy is heightened by your very kind words of encouragement and expressions of the delight in following my build thread. I do thank you all, and hope you continue to enjoy with me the fun I am having in building her.
Cheers!
Jim
