This model of the racing schooner America, was unlike any other racing schooner of its day. Designed with a sharp bow and tall masts by George Steers (1819–1856), this state-of-the-art schooner was ready to beat the ships of Great Britain. On August 22, 1851, with Queen Victoria (1819–1901) looking on, Captain William H. Brown (1803–1855) and twelve crewmen drove America to overtake the competition and win the Royal Yacht Squadron’s 53-mile race around the Isle of Wight. Subsequently, the trophy took on the name “America’s Cup.” The America eventually came back to the U.S. and was refitted for the Union Blockade during the Civil War (1861–1865). To prevent it from falling into Confederate hands, it was intentionally sunk on behalf of the Union.