Have you ever wanted to step back in time and experience some of the military weaponry that’s shaped world history for generations? Well, now’s your chance! Visitors of all ages are welcome to discover firsthand how ships, planes, tanks, missiles, and more shaped today’s world at the Museum of Military Models in Clyde, Texas.
This one-of-a-kind collection provides an educational glimpse into the equipment that helped shape history in the United States and beyond. Exhibits feature more than 600 scale models and artifacts spanning from the American Revolution to the Vietnam War era plus several models depicting famous European battleships dating back to the 16th century.
The museum was founded by Texas native and Air Force veteran Warren Harkins to educate the public and honor those who have served in a fun, hands-on way. As time marches on, the curriculum taught in American schools is shifting largely away from that of military battles, adapting to evolving events and perspectives. That’s where Harkins decided to step in and fill some of the educational gaps by putting his own private collection on display.
“I find that history doesn’t seem to be learned in junior high or high school anymore. At least, not to the extent that we did… Some of us older guys even took part in it. We made some of the history, too,” Harkins stated.
Along with educating visitors on military history, the museum also serves to honor service members who worked on the various pieces of equipment throughout history.
“The ships,” he said, “represent the sacrifices and the heroism that the crews endure during their time or in a particular conflict.”
For example, Harkins discussed the Battle of Denmark Strait which took place during the Second World War and lasted less than fifteen minutes. The British battleship HMS Prince of Wales and the battlecruiser HMS Hood faced the German battleship Bismarck and the heavy cruiser Prinz Eugen. Of nearly 1,200 crewmen aboard the Hood, only three survived. Harkins recently commissioned a model of the Bismarck that will be added to the museum upon completion.
“Each one has a story and a sacrifice that makes up its history,” he said. “That’s what, in my mind, should be remembered and passed on.”
But Harkins’ collection isn’t just limited to ships, and he’ll be the first to share with visitors the magnitude and importance of the collection.
“We’re just as passionate about the other equipment — the airplanes and things — as well,” Harkins shared before mentioning that his collection also includes several of the airplanes his father served on during his time in the Army Air Corps throughout World War II. The collection even features several missiles, including a model of the Titan, the predecessor to a missile Harkins helped operate while in the Air Force: the Titan II.
In fact, the museum currently boasts an expansive collection of more than 200 model ships, 350 model airplanes, several dozen tanks and armored vehicles, and a collection of artillery and cannon shells. And while most of the collection spans what Harkins calls “The American Period”, which ranges from 1776 to the modern day, many of the models represent European equipment dating back hundreds of years.
Harkins’ favorite model? His first: a scale model of the USS Constitution that was gifted to him by his wife more than a decade ago.
When asked what he’d like to say to those thinking about visiting the museum, Harkins said, “Well… I think it would be worth your time!” with a chuckle. He continued, “I realize that it’s not for everyone. But if you’re so inclined and you like history — and particularly military history — I think that you would get a lot out of it. And if you don’t or you’ve never experienced it before, perhaps it might spark a new interest… When I see school busses lined up in my parking lot then I know I’ve done my job.”
At the time of publication, the Museum of Military Models occupies a remodeled 800-square-foot house on Harkins’ ranch between Clyde and Abilene that now spans an impressive 4,600 square feet. Additionally, plans are underway to open an extra 3,200 square feet for exhibits, events, and meeting space later this year. This expansion will enable the museum to welcome larger groups and accommodate more visitors in the future.
Tours are available by appointment only. There’s no admission cost to visit; however, donations are welcomed and encouraged. Proceeds benefit the West Texas branch of Texas Hunters for Heroes, which provides outdoor adventures and a sense of community for local veterans facing challenges in coping with service-related problems.
