In the vibrant era of Canadian boatbuilding that was the early 1970s, Nash Industries emerged onto the marine landscape from Strathroy, Ontario, Canada. The company was founded by Joe Nash, an individual described not only as a boat builder but also a carpenter and photographer, known for his ability to fix almost anything. His multifaceted skills and adventurous spirit—even flying to Ireland and back solo in a Twin Comanche—likely fueled his venture into yacht construction. While specific details of his initial vision are not extensively documented, it is clear that Nash embarked on building fiberglass sailboats, contributing to a period of significant growth for Canadian sailboat manufacturers.
The company's first known production vessel was the Nash 20, with construction beginning around 1972. This 20-foot monohull sailboat was designed in collaboration between Hughes and Nash, sometimes simply cited as "Hughes/Nash." Representing an accessible entry into sailing, the Nash 20 set the stage for the company's brief but notable tenure.
History and Evolution
Nash Industries operated primarily from the early 1970s until approximately 1990. During this period, the company focused on fiberglass construction, a material that had become standard in the marine industry for its durability and ease of maintenance. The transition to new materials like fiberglass was a key moment for many builders of this era, allowing for more efficient and consistent production.
The company's output was relatively modest, producing two primary models: the Nash 20 and the Nash 26. Information suggests a 33-foot model was also in development shortly before the company ceased operations, indicating aspirations for expansion that ultimately went unfulfilled.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Nash Industries, through its limited but distinctive models, carved out a reputation for producing practical fiberglass sailboats. While not known for high-performance racing machines or opulent luxury yachts, their boats appear to have been designed with a focus on stability and suitability for their intended use.
The Nash 20, for instance, is characterized as a "light sailboat" that performs well and is "stable/stiff," best suited as a day-boat. Its design featured a Masthead Sloop rigging and a Keel/Cbrd. hull type. The collaboration between Hughes and Nash on this model suggests a blend of design expertise.
The larger Nash 26, designed by Joe Nash himself, emerged around 1975 (or 1977). This 26-foot vessel was a Masthead Sloop with a fin keel and transom-hung rudder. It is described as a "moderate weight sailboat" with good stability and righting capability, though "slightly underpowered." This suggests a design philosophy prioritizing a secure and comfortable sailing experience over pure speed. The use of fiberglass for construction was standard for both models.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The most significant and successful models in Nash Industries' history are undoubtedly the Nash 20 and Nash 26. While specific production numbers are not readily available, these boats represented the core of the company's offering.
The Nash 20, at 20 feet (6.1 meters) overall length, with a reported sail area of 190 square feet, was designed to be a nimble and enjoyable day-sailor or weekend cruiser. Its light displacement of 1,900 pounds (862 kg) and a ballast of 550 pounds (249 kg) contributed to its performance characteristics.
The Nash 26, measuring 25 feet 11 inches (7.9 meters) in length overall, was a more substantial vessel. With a displacement of 5,200 pounds (2,359 kg) and a ballast of 2,100 pounds (953 kg), it offered greater stability and capacity, making it suitable for more extended cruising. It typically featured either an outboard or small gas inboard motor.
Nash Industries' legacy lies in its contribution to the Canadian recreational boating scene during a boom period for sailboat manufacturing. These boats, though perhaps not revolutionary in design, provided accessible and reliable sailing platforms for enthusiasts in Ontario and beyond.
The Builder Today
Nash Industries, as a boat building entity, is no longer active, having closed its doors around 1990. While the company itself is part of history, its boats, like the Nash 20 and Nash 26, occasionally appear on the used market, testament to their fiberglass construction and the care of their owners. These boats continue to appeal to sailors seeking robust and straightforward cruisers, often representing an affordable entry into boat ownership. The ownership experience typically relies on self-sufficiency and communal knowledge sharing among owners, given the age of the vessels and the builder's inactive status. The legacy of Nash Industries is thus carried forward by the enduring vessels that still ply Canadian waters, a quiet reminder of a vibrant era in the nation's yachting heritage.
