by Hank Ghittino
Categories:
- Build type: [Kit][Mamoli]
- Material: [Wood]
- Scale: [1:66]
- Subject Type: [Racing]
- Era: [1815-1914]
- Nationality: [United States]
- Propulsion: [Sail]
About the Vessel
The schooner America was designed by George Steers and built in William Brown’s shipyard in 1851. Its hull design was based on recent developments in the construction of New York pilot boats. This design reversed the common construction of wide bows thought necessary to keep the front end from driving under in a gale and a tapered stern. This new design achieved greater speeds with the same spread of sails on boats of similar weight. America set out for England in June 1851 to take part in the regatta of the Great Exhibition of 1851. The regatta was held on the 22nd of August around the Isle of Wight, without compensation for difference in tonnage or rigging. The prize offered was a 100 guinea cup. America carried off an overwhelming victory over the English squadron. Its name is still the most important and celebrated in the history of world yachting. The 100 guinea cup, afterwards became the “America’s Cup”, and still gives its name to the most important regatta in the world.
Model Images
Links
- Model of America by HRSMS member Bill Altice
- Model of America by HRSMS member John Proudley
- Model of America by HRSMS member George Livingston
- Wikipedia