Nestled in Riverside, New Jersey, Evanson (P.) Boat Co. carved out a niche in the American sailing landscape during its operational years from 1965 to 1978. Founded by Stan Evanson, the company became known for its accessible small sailboats, leaving a modest yet memorable legacy in the world of dinghies and compact cruisers.
The Origin Story
The genesis of Evanson (P.) Boat Co. can be traced back to the vision of its founder, Stan Evanson. While specific details of Stan Evanson's background are not extensively documented, his journey into boat building appears to have been inspired by a particular Dutch design he encountered in Northern Holland in 1951. Impressed by the sleek hull lines of a Dutch boat dating back to the 1920s, Evanson decided to bring this design to the American market. This pivotal moment laid the groundwork for what would become one of the company's most recognizable models, the Celebrity.
History and Evolution
Evanson (P.) Boat Co. officially operated from 1965 to 1978, establishing its base in Riverside, New Jersey. During its active years, the company embraced evolving boat-building techniques and materials. Initially, some of its smaller boats, like the Rhodes Robin, were constructed with cold-molded hulls and mahogany decks and interiors, showcasing a commitment to traditional craftsmanship. As the marine industry progressed, Evanson Boat Co. adapted, notably transitioning to all-fiberglass construction for models such as the Celebrity by the 1970s, marking a significant shift towards more modern production methods. Beyond building their own designs, Evanson also played a role in the broader boating community by importing boats, both as complete vessels and in kit form, including popular sailing dinghies like Penguins and Moths.
Iconic Models and Legacy
While its operational period was relatively brief, Evanson (P.) Boat Co. produced a few models that resonated with sailors, primarily focusing on approachable and enjoyable small craft. Two of the most notable sailboats associated with the company are the Celebrity and the Rhodes Robin.
The Celebrity, measuring 19.75 feet (6.02 meters) in length, stands out as a direct result of Stan Evanson's original inspiration. Its design lineage connects to a classic Dutch concept, which Evanson refined and brought to production, eventually offering it in a durable fiberglass version. The Celebrity gained a following as a versatile and manageable sailboat.
The Rhodes Robin, at 10.83 feet (3.30 meters), was another significant model, reflecting an association with the renowned naval architect Philip L. Rhodes. These dinghies were known for their cold-molded hulls and elegant mahogany finishes, appreciated for their craftsmanship and sailing characteristics.
The company's legacy is preserved in the memories of those who owned and sailed these boats, with online communities and forums occasionally featuring discussions and fond recollections of Evanson-built vessels like the Celebrity and Rhodes Robin. While not a giant in the industry, Evanson (P.) Boat Co. contributed to the accessibility of sailing through its production of well-regarded small boats.
The Builder Today
Evanson (P.) Boat Co. ceased operations in 1978 and is no longer in business. Despite its relatively short lifespan, the boats built by Stan Evanson's company occasionally appear on the used boat market, serving as a testament to their enduring construction and design. The company's place in marine history is that of a dedicated, albeit smaller, builder that provided straightforward and enjoyable sailing experiences to its clientele from its Riverside, New Jersey, base.
