US One-Design Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the US One-Design unfolded between 1946 and 1948, marking a significant return to leisure and competitive yachting after the extensive wartime production efforts that had characterized many American boatyards, including Quincy Adams. Thirty of these finely crafted vessels were ultimately built. The design itself came from the drawing board of Carl Alberg, who was associated with the John G. Alden design firm at the time. The Alden firm was celebrated for crafting yachts that offered a harmonious blend of speed, comfort, and enjoyable handling, a philosophy that likely influenced the US One-Design's characteristics. Quincy Adams Yacht Yard, a continuation of the storied Lawley family's boatbuilding tradition, was known for its commitment to quality craftsmanship and for producing elegant, well-built wooden yachts, a reputation that perfectly aligned with the demanding standards for a racing one-design class. The yard also had a history of building other notable one-design classes, further solidifying its expertise in this niche.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just under 38 feet and a waterline length of 24 feet, the US One-Design was conceived for spirited racing. Her design ratios provide insight into her anticipated performance. A sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 17.31 suggests a boat with good power, capable of performing well in a range of wind conditions, including lighter air, though perhaps not an extreme light-wind specialist. Crucially for a racing boat, she boasts an exceptionally high ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.55. This indicates a very stiff and stable vessel, designed to stand up to a significant amount of sail area in stronger breezes without excessive heeling, allowing her crew to maximize power and maintain control during competitive racing. Furthermore, her displacement to length ratio of approximately 209.9 places her in the moderate to heavy displacement category for a boat of her size and era. While not an ultralight, this suggests a robust hull form that would offer a comfortable motion through a seaway, even in challenging conditions, providing a stable platform for a racing crew.

Accommodations and Layout

As a dedicated one-design racer from the mid-20th century, the US One-Design's interior accommodations were likely functional and relatively sparse, prioritizing sailing performance and on-deck space for crew efficiency over extensive cruising comforts. Information regarding specific interior layouts or maximum headroom is not readily available, which is typical for racing boats of this vintage. It can be inferred that any interior spaces would have consisted of basic bunks or seating, possibly a small galley area, and minimal storage, consistent with the needs of a racing crew rather than long-distance cruising. The construction material for both hull and deck was wood, indicating a classic yachting finish in keeping with the era's premium standards for craftsmanship.