Fillip Manufacturing Co. was founded by John P. Fillip (1934-2010), a figure whose vision centered on producing practical and enjoyable fiberglass sailing dinghies, canoes, and kayaks. The company began its operations in 1959, located at 1923 Austin Street in San Angelo, Texas, USA. While some records indicate a formal "Date in Business" as December 1, 1972, SailboatData.com lists boats first built in 1969, suggesting that John P. Fillip's boat-building activities commenced earlier, with the 1972 date perhaps marking a specific corporate registration or expansion phase. From its inception, Fillip's approach was distinct: he primarily built boats to his own designs, reflecting a hands-on, independent spirit in the burgeoning fiberglass era.
History and Evolution
Fillip Manufacturing Co.'s history is characterized by its steadfast commitment to fiberglass construction from the outset. Unlike many older builders who transitioned from wood to composite materials, Fillip embraced fiberglass as its core medium for its durability and ease of maintenance, making recreational boating more accessible. The company operated for over four decades, from 1959 until it ceased operations in 2005. During its active years, John P. Fillip was also associated with "Concho Valley Marine," which operated from the same San Angelo address, indicating a possible retail or service arm for his manufacturing business. This integrated approach likely served the local and regional boating community effectively.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Fillip Manufacturing Co. cultivated a reputation as a builder of robust, small recreational vessels. The company was primarily known for its fiberglass sailing dinghies, canoes, and kayaks. A key aspect of their identity was John P. Fillip's reliance on his own designs. This self-sufficiency meant that Fillip boats were not the product of collaborations with renowned naval architects, but rather the embodiment of a builder's personal vision for functional and user-friendly craft suitable for day sailing, paddling, and general leisure on inland waters or sheltered coastal areas. The emphasis was on straightforward construction and performance tailored for the average recreational boater, rather than cutting-edge racing or luxurious cruising.
Iconic Models and Legacy
While detailed production numbers are not widely available, several models stand out in Fillip Manufacturing Co.'s production history. Among their sailing dinghies, the Starfish is notable, measuring 13.67 feet (4.17 meters) in length and first built in 1969. Another recognized sailing model was the 16-foot Tornado, which J.D. Power noted as one of their best-known vessels. The Viper 15 was also part of their sailing dinghy lineup. These models, typical of the company's output, catered to those seeking nimble and accessible small sailboats. Fillip's canoes and kayaks further diversified their offering, providing a range of paddlecraft for various aquatic pursuits. The existence of online discussions among enthusiasts about these specific models, particularly concerning parts and historical information, suggests that Fillip boats garnered a loyal following in their operational region.
The Builder Today
Fillip Manufacturing Co. is no longer in operation, having closed its doors in 2005. The founder, John P. Fillip, passed away in 2010. Consequently, there are no modern boats being produced under the Fillip name, nor is there an active company presence in the global marine market. The legacy of Fillip Manufacturing Co. rests in the durable fiberglass dinghies, canoes, and kayaks that still ply the waters of Texas and beyond. These boats continue to be appreciated by those who value their straightforward design and the accessible boating experience they offered. While not a brand with a large international owner community, the enduring presence of their older models speaks to the quality and utility that John P. Fillip instilled in his San Angelo-built craft.
