Kells Corp.: A Glimpse into a Niche American Boat Builder
The annals of American yachting history are filled with tales of visionary builders, and while some achieved global renown, others made their mark on a more focused scale. Kells Corp., founded by Raymond F. Kells, represents one such intriguing chapter, characterized by its founder's diverse entrepreneurial spirit and a brief but notable foray into fiberglass sailboat production.
Raymond F. Kells, the driving force behind Kells Corp., brought a significant background in the marine industry to his own venture. Before establishing his company, Kells served as the national sales manager for Bristol Yachts, a prominent American boat builder known for its fiberglass sailboats. This experience undoubtedly provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the market, sales, and potentially the construction techniques prevalent in the industry at the time. Kells Corp. operated from two distinct locations in the United States: one in Rhode Island and another in Delaware. The exact founding year of the boat-building arm of Kells Corp. is not explicitly stated, but early boat models suggest activity from at least the mid-1970s.
History and Evolution
Kells Corp.'s history as a boat builder appears to be concentrated in the 1970s, during which it produced several models of fiberglass sailboats. The company embraced fiberglass construction, a material that had become standard for production sailboats by that era, offering durability and lower maintenance compared to traditional wood. While specific corporate changes or acquisitions related to the boat-building operations are not widely documented, Raymond F. Kells' career path diversified over time. Beyond boat building, he was involved in the manufacturing of "water slides" and later founded "Adventureland," a sports and recreation facility in Narragansett, Rhode Island, featuring attractions like go-karts, batting cages, and bumper boats. This broader entrepreneurial focus suggests that boat building may have been one of several ventures for Raymond Kells, who passed away in 2009.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Kells Corp. established a reputation for producing relatively compact, yet capable, fiberglass sailboats, primarily masthead sloops. While detailed information on a specific "design philosophy" or a long list of collaborating naval architects is scarce, the company is noted for its involvement in the design of at least one of its models. For instance, the Kells 28 was designed by "Aborn Smith/Kells Corp.", indicating an in-house or collaborative design effort directly involving the company. These boats were generally aimed at the cruising and recreational sailing market, providing accessible options for sailors.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Though Kells Corp. may not have built a vast array of models or achieved the production numbers of larger manufacturers, several of its designs are recognized in the sailing community:
- Kells 28: Introduced around 1976, the Kells 28 is a 28-foot masthead sloop constructed from fiberglass. It features a design attributed to Aborn Smith/Kells Corp.. A Kells 28 from 1978, built in Bristol, RI, is also noted.
- Kells 23: This 22'7" vessel, also known as the "KELLS23" and built in 1974, is described as a sister to the Coaster 23.
- Kells 22: Referenced as early as 1974, a "Kells 22 Brenton Reef Fisherman" from 1960 was spotted in Jamestown, Rhode Island, suggesting an earlier design or a specific variant.
These models reflect Kells Corp.'s contribution to the fiberglass sailboat market of the mid-1970s, offering practical and straightforward sailing vessels. Their legacy lies in their continued presence in the used boat market, appealing to those seeking an affordable and manageable classic fiberglass sailboat.
The Builder Today
Kells Corp. as a boat-building entity does not appear to be actively producing boats today. With the passing of founder Raymond F. Kells in 2009 and his later focus on other ventures like "Adventureland" (which was still in business as of 2011, though Kells had passed), the boat-building operations likely ceased. The company's vessels, primarily the Kells 22, 23, and 28, are now part of the vintage fiberglass sailboat market, sought after by individuals who appreciate their classic designs and robust construction for recreational sailing. While there isn't a formally organized "owner community" in the way larger brands might have, owners often connect through online forums and enthusiast groups dedicated to vintage sailboats.
