Siddons & Sindle: A Chapter in American Sailboat Building History
The annals of American sailboat manufacturing are rich with stories of visionaries who shaped the industry. Among them, Siddons & Sindle carved out a notable, albeit finite, chapter. Founded by Howard Siddons and the highly influential Harry Sindle, this New Jersey-based builder contributed significantly to the world of small, performance-oriented sailboats during its operational years.
Siddons & Sindle was established in 1963 by its two namesakes, Howard Siddons and Harry Sindle. Their original location was on Central Avenue in Island Heights, New Jersey, a fitting home for a company immersed in marine craft. While specific details about Howard Siddons' background remain less documented, co-founder Harry Sindle was a prominent figure in the sailing community. Sindle (1929-2020) was an accomplished American sailor, a six-time national champion in the Flying Dutchman Class, and a respected sailboat designer and builder. His extensive experience in competitive sailing undoubtedly fueled the company's vision, likely aiming to produce boats that combined performance with accessibility.
Among their early known productions was the Barnegat 17, a model first built by Siddons & Sindle in 1963, the same year the company was founded. This suggests a focus on practical, well-designed smaller craft from the outset.
A Legacy of Innovation and Performance
Siddons & Sindle quickly gained a reputation, largely attributed to Harry Sindle's expertise and influence. As a designer and builder, Sindle was a revered figure in the sailing community, recognized for his pioneering spirit and leadership. While no specific "design philosophy" document exists for the company, Sindle's background as a champion dinghy sailor strongly indicates an emphasis on performance, efficiency, and potentially, the one-design racing concept that makes competitive sailing accessible.
Given the era of their operation, the company likely embraced fiberglass construction, a material that revolutionized boat building in the mid-20th century by offering durability, reduced maintenance, and the ability for more consistent production compared to traditional wood. This transition to modern materials was crucial for builders of the time seeking to produce sailboats for a growing market.
Iconic Models and Enduring Impact
Siddons & Sindle were responsible for several significant boat models that left a lasting mark on the sailing community. Two of their most recognized models include the Barnegat 17 and the iconic Buccaneer.
The Barnegat 17, first appearing in 1963, was an early staple of their production, with the company building this model until at least 1970. It established Siddons & Sindle's presence in the small sailboat market.
Perhaps their most famous contribution was their role in building the Buccaneer. Designed in 1966 by the notable naval architects Rod Macalpine-Downie and Dick Gibbs, the Buccaneer quickly became a popular one-design class sailboat. Harry Sindle was closely associated with the Buccaneer, contributing to its legacy. The Buccaneer's success speaks volumes about the quality and performance that Siddons & Sindle instilled in their craft, helping to foster a vibrant racing community around the design. Although current production of the Buccaneer is handled by Nickels Boat Works, Siddons & Sindle's initial involvement was crucial in establishing its widespread recognition. Another model associated with the builder is the Nomad.
Siddons & Sindle's Place in History
Siddons & Sindle are no longer in business. However, their legacy endures through the many sailboats they produced that are still enjoyed on the water today. The company's contribution lies in its role in bringing well-designed, performance-oriented small sailboats to a broader audience, largely due to Harry Sindle's profound influence as a sailor, designer, and builder. Their boats appealed to individuals and families looking for competitive yet manageable sailing experiences, fostering a love for the sport and contributing to the thriving sailboat culture, particularly in the dinghy and small cruiser segments. The enduring presence of models like the Buccaneer, even under different builders, serves as a testament to the foundational quality and impact of Siddons & Sindle.
