The Golden Age of Yachting - Softcover

Herreshoff, L. Francis

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1574092510 ISBN 13: 9781574092516

Publisher: Sheridan House, 2007

Synopsis

The Golden Age of Yachting is a book consisting mostly of yachting history, as the author felt and rightly so that a review of the past is the best way to make an introduction to the sport. In this great book, the author presents a panoramic view of yachting, providing an insightful introduction to the pleasures, craft and history of yachting with emphasis on the era of the great steam yachts. It is a meticulous job based on accurate knowledge and detailed research.

Most yachting histories have been so much influenced by the nationality of the author that the British and American versions are quite different, but L. Francis Herreshoff was equally familiar with both sides. He has given a much more factual account of the international races than can be found in other writings.

This book will appeal to the large group of amateur and professional seamen who strive to keep alive the traditions and lore of sail. The book was first published by Sheridan House in 1963 under the title An Introduction to Yachting and reprinted in 1980. The title of this new paperback edition, The Golden Age of Yachting, more accurately reflects the treasures found in this magnificent volume.

About this title

About the Author:

L. Francis Herreshoff came from a family that designed and built some of the finest yachts the world has ever seen. His father, Captain Nat Herreshoff, was one of the greatest yacht and engine designers. L. Francis Herreshoff, a famous designer in his own right, wrote a fascinating biography of his father titled Capt. Nat Herreshoff: The Wizard of Bristol. He was also the author of The Compleat Cruiser, one of the enduring classics of American sailing literature. Both books are still in print with Sheridan House.

Review:

This book was first published an 1963, under the title An Introduction to Yachting , a misnomer that no doubt caused many a would-be-yachtie to pick it up in the hope that here was a book that might transform him from zero to hero in a few comprehensive lessons.

Instead, the reader would have found himself drawn into a world of yachting very different from anything he may have imagined. For here is a history book, quickly tracing yachting from 6000BC to the era of great steam yachts, before lingering lovingly on not only lifestyles of days gone by, but giving wonderful accounts of some stunning yachts and their races, in what was truly The Golden Age of Yachting, which was a far more appropriate title for publication that will really appeal to lovers of folklore and traditional sailing. (Sailing and Yachting)

This volume traces the history of yachting in America and Britain from the 1600 s to the 1920 s. Herreshoff recounts the steam era, the development of the marine steam engine, the origin of the America s Cup, developments in English yachting, and specific yachts, races and types. Many b&w photos and illustrations are provided; no bibliography. The book was first published in 1963 as An Introduction to Yachting and was reprinted in 1980; it now has a new title for his paperback edition. Herreshoff was a yacht designer and the author of The Compleat Cruiser. (Booknews)

...here is a history book, quickly tracing yachting from 6000 BC to the era of great steam yachts, before lingering lovingly on not only lifestyles of days gone by, but giving wonderful accounts of some stunning yachts and their races, in what was truly The Golden Age of Yachting...[a] publication that will really appeal to lovers of folklore and traditional sailing. (Sailing and Yachting)

About this edition

• Publisher: Sheridan House
• Publication date: 2007
• ISBN 10: 1574092510
• ISBN 13: 9781574092516
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 288