As a venerable name in American yachting, Concordia Company has woven a rich tapestry through the decades, leaving an indelible mark on the marine industry. From its origins as a brokerage to its iconic role in commissioning the timeless Concordia Yawls, the company embodies a heritage of quality, design, and a deep understanding of the sea.
Concordia Company, Inc. was established in 1926 by Llewellyn Howland, a figure with deep roots in maritime history. Howland, a yachting historian and author, named his nascent venture after a celebrated whaling vessel belonging to his own family, thereby instantly imbuing the company with a sense of seafaring legacy. While not explicitly a craftsman or engineer, Howland's profound connection to the sea and his background in maritime history laid the foundation for a company dedicated to the finest traditions of yachting. Initially, during the 1930s, Concordia Company primarily operated as a successful boat brokerage, while simultaneously developing a reputation for building smaller boats. One of their early commissions was the 28-foot Weepecket, signaling the company's early foray into boat construction.
History and Evolution
A pivotal moment in Concordia Company's trajectory came in 1932 when Llewellyn Howland transferred the company to his son, Waldo Howland, and the talented designer C. Raymond Hunt. This partnership would prove foundational for the company's future renown. In 1938, Concordia Company relocated from Boston to Fairhaven, Massachusetts, a move that coincided with a fateful event: the Great Hurricane of 1938. The devastating storm destroyed Llewellyn Howland's own yacht, prompting him to commission a replacement from Concordia Company. This commission led to the creation of Concordia design number fourteen, a 39'10" yawl that would become famously known as the Concordia Yawl.
Between 1938 and 1966, Concordia Company commissioned an impressive fleet of 103 Concordia Yawls (along with a few sloops) from the esteemed German shipyard, Abeking & Rasmussen in Lemwerder. Notably, all but four of these iconic vessels were constructed by the German yard, a unique cross-continental collaboration that speaks to Concordia's commitment to excellence. The company's ownership saw changes in later decades; Bill Pinney acquired Concordia Company in 1969, presiding over its operations until 1981. Subsequently, in 1981, Brodie MacGregor took the helm, guiding the company through a new era. Throughout these transitions, Concordia also built Beetle Cat sailboats, further showcasing its diverse capabilities in traditional wooden boat construction.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Concordia Company has earned an enviable reputation in the sailing world for its commitment to fine craftsmanship and enduring design. The company is most famously associated with the Concordia Yawl, which achieved iconic status for its elegant beauty, superb construction, and impressive racing capabilities. These boats were not designed to strictly adhere to racing rules but rather to be exceptional cruiser-racers.
At the heart of the Concordia Yawl's success was the collaborative genius of its designers. The renowned naval architect C. Raymond Hunt was responsible for the hull design, while Bill Harris drew the rig. Waldo Howland, then a principal of Concordia Company, contributed significantly to the interior layout and many other distinct features of the vessel. A signature feature that distinguishes many Concordia Yawls is their unique star and moon covestripe, instantly recognizable to enthusiasts. This meticulous attention to detail and a blend of performance and comfort cemented the Concordia Yawl's legacy as one of the most successful and long-lived stock racer/cruisers.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The undisputed flagship of Concordia Company's legacy is the Concordia Yawl. With 103 units built, predominantly by Abeking & Rasmussen, this model stands as a testament to timeless design and construction. The Concordia Yawl is widely regarded as "the most successful and beloved class of wooden offshore sailboats ever built," a true "American classic, built in Germany." Their enduring appeal is rooted in their exceptional seaworthiness, spirited performance, and classic aesthetics. They have achieved considerable success in racing, further solidifying their reputation.
Beyond the dominant Yawl, Concordia Company also produced other vessels, including a number of Concordia sloops and continued building Beetle Cat sailboats during various periods of its history. While the company hasn't been directly linked to America's Cup campaigns in the search results, the impact of the Concordia Yawls on yachting culture and traditional boatbuilding is profound. Their success inspired a generation of sailors and cemented the idea that a production boat could also be a work of art and a formidable performer.
The Builder Today
Concordia Company remains a vibrant and respected entity in the American marine industry. The company, which Brodie MacGregor acquired in 1981, has since seen a generational transition, with Brodie's son, Stuart MacGregor, now serving as President/General Manager. This continuity ensures the preservation of the company's long-standing traditions and expertise.
Today, Concordia Company continues to offer a comprehensive range of services, including yacht maintenance, restoration, and custom boatbuilding. Their modern operations appeal to yacht owners who value classic craftsmanship, meticulous care, and the preservation of maritime heritage. The ownership experience for a Concordia boat, particularly a Concordia Yawl, often includes being part of a strong, passionate community of enthusiasts who celebrate these iconic vessels through regattas, gatherings, and shared appreciation for their design and history. The company's nearly century-long existence solidifies its position as a revered institution dedicated to keeping traditional yachting alive.
