For nearly a century, the name Knutson has been synonymous with quality marine craftsmanship on Long Island, New York. Founded by Thomas Knutson in 1935, the Thomas Knutson Shipbuilding Corporation embarked on a journey that would see it construct hundreds of yachts, both sail and power, and play a vital role in national defense, a testament to enduring family legacy and maritime expertise.
The Origin Story
The story of Knutson Shipbuilding began in 1935 when Thomas Knutson established his shipbuilding corporation in Halesite, Long Island, New York. While specific details about Thomas Knutson's personal background or the very first vessel he built are not widely publicized, his immediate establishment of a shipbuilding company and its subsequent rapid growth suggest a deep-rooted expertise and a clear vision for contributing to the burgeoning yachting scene and the nation's marine needs. The company quickly became known for producing a wide variety of yachts, laying the groundwork for its reputation for versatility and quality.
History and Evolution
From its inception, the Thomas Knutson Shipbuilding Corporation quickly established itself as a cornerstone of the Long Island marine industry. A significant chapter in the company's history unfolded during periods of national crisis. During both World War II and the Korean War, Knutson Shipbuilding shifted its focus to support the war effort, constructing essential vessels such as tugs, sub-chasers, rescue boats, and patrol boats for the United States government. This period highlights the yard's robust capabilities and its commitment beyond recreational yacht building.
Following the war years, the company transitioned through generations, embodying a true family enterprise. Leadership was successively passed from Thomas Knutson to his sons, and then to his grandsons, ensuring the continuity of the shipbuilding tradition and accumulated knowledge. This multi-generational stewardship allowed the company to maintain its standards and adapt to the evolving demands of the marine industry, even as it primarily continued to work with traditional boatbuilding methods, with no major publicized transitions to new materials like fiberglass.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Knutson Shipbuilding Corp. earned a strong reputation in the sailing and powerboating world for its commitment to durable and well-crafted vessels. The company became known for building "hundreds of yachts, both sail and power," indicating a broad capability rather than specialization in a single type or design philosophy. While specific signature design features or proprietary construction techniques are not widely detailed, the sheer volume and longevity of their work suggest a focus on solid, reliable construction and customization to client needs. The company's enduring presence and its continued work on "some of the finest yachts in the Northeast" speak to the high regard in which their craftsmanship is held. The records do not prominently feature collaborations with specific famous naval architects, suggesting that much of their work may have been built to varied designs, custom specifications, or based on in-house expertise.
Iconic Models and Legacy
While Knutson Shipbuilding Corp. was responsible for building "hundreds of yachts," the company's legacy is marked more by the breadth and quality of its output rather than a few widely recognized, mass-produced "iconic models" in the modern sense. Their work included a diverse range of sail and power yachts. Records indicate the construction of yachts such as "Adventure IV" and "Libra" in 1947, demonstrating their consistent output of recreational vessels.
Beyond their private yacht commissions, the most significant "special projects" in Knutson's history were undoubtedly their contributions to the war efforts. The construction of essential military vessels like sub-chasers, tugs, rescue, and patrol boats during World War II and the Korean War solidified their place in naval history and showcased their versatility and capacity for large-scale, critical production. This dual focus on both military and private vessels underscores the company's significant impact on the marine industry, particularly within the Northeastern United States.
The Builder Today
Today, the legacy of Thomas Knutson lives on through Knutson Marine, still a family-owned and operated business. Peter Knutson, grandson of the founder, continues to uphold the family tradition, utilizing some of the same facilities that once built naval vessels to serve the modern yachting community.
Knutson Marine operates as a full-service marina with multiple locations in Huntington Harbor, including their longstanding presence at 41 East Shore Road and another at 300 West Shore Road in Huntington, New York. Their current primary focus is on providing comprehensive marine services, specializing in major repairs for some of the finest yachts in the Northeast. They offer a wide array of services including dockage, moorings, and thorough winterization processes, personally overseen by family members like Dan Knutson, the yard manager.
Knutson Marine appeals to a discerning clientele who value expert craftsmanship and a deep understanding of marine vessels. The company's long history, spanning four generations, has fostered a loyal owner community, relying on Knutson's expertise for the upkeep and restoration of their prized yachts. The Knutson name remains a trusted beacon for quality and service in the vibrant Long Island boating scene.
