Stamford One-Design Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Stamford One-Design began in 1919 and concluded by 1920. During this brief period, only 11 of these distinctive wooden sloops were constructed. As was often the fate of many relatively small, intraclub one-design racers of that era, the Stamford One-Design class had a short lifespan, with boats being abandoned after only a few years.

The builder, Rice Brothers, was known for its adaptability and commitment to quality, starting with small yachts and expanding into a wide array of vessel types throughout its six decades of operation. This early focus on recreational boating aligned perfectly with the creation of the Stamford One-Design, showcasing the yard's capability to execute specialized yacht designs. The decision to commission a design from John Alden, a celebrated figure in naval architecture, underscored the Stamford Yacht Club's ambition to establish a high-quality racing class. Alden's philosophy for such one-design classes typically revolved around creating boats that were evenly matched in performance, emphasizing sailor skill over equipment advantage, and providing an enjoyable yet challenging racing experience.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Measuring 26.75 feet in overall length and 19.58 feet at the waterline, with a beam of 7.25 feet and a maximum draft of 4.25 feet, the Stamford One-Design was a compact and agile racer. Its displacement of 3600 pounds, coupled with 1500 pounds of ballast, contributed to a stable platform for its size. The boat's hull speed is calculated at 5.93 knots.

As a gaffhead sloop, the Stamford One-Design featured a sail plan known for its power in lighter winds due to the expansive sail area high above the deck. While gaff rigs can sometimes be more complex to manage than modern Bermudan rigs, particularly in heavy air, a sloop configuration generally allows for easier handling by a smaller crew. Its fin keel design further suggests a focus on upwind performance and maneuverability, crucial attributes for competitive racing within a club setting. Owners would likely have found the boat responsive and engaging to sail, demanding a keen understanding of trim and sail handling to extract its best performance.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its role as an intraclub one-design racer from the early 20th century, the Stamford One-Design was not intended for extended cruising or elaborate onboard living. Consequently, its interior accommodations would have been minimal, if present at all, primarily serving as basic shelter or storage for racing gear rather than a comfortable living space. Information regarding specific interior layouts or headroom is not readily available, reinforcing the likelihood of a very spartan arrangement focused on maximizing space for racing operations rather than domestic comfort. The primary focus of the design was unequivocally on racing performance and club competition.