In the annals of American boatbuilding, the name Silverline Boats resonates with a pioneering spirit, particularly in the realm of fiberglass powerboats. From its humble beginnings in Moorhead, Minnesota, Silverline carved out a significant niche, producing thousands of vessels that navigated waters worldwide, before its eventual acquisition and the closure of its original plant.
The Origin Story
The journey of Silverline Boats began not in 1967 as some records suggest, but earlier, in 1959, under the initial guise of Moorhead Plastics. This venture was a collaborative effort driven by the Greater Moorhead Development Corporation, local businessman Ray Stordahl, and John Buckman, a figure with considerable experience in the boating industry. Buckman, who had previously honed his skills at Larson Boats in the early 1950s and later with Inland Marine, brought invaluable boatbuilding acumen to the nascent company.
Moorhead Plastics was established with the express purpose of manufacturing fiberglass boats. Their initial offerings included straightforward, deck-less fishing boats dubbed the “Free Way” line, alongside more agile and sporty runabouts marketed under the “Silver Line” moniker. A prominent early model was a 17-foot Silver Line, representing their top-of-the-line offering.
History and Evolution
Silverline's trajectory was marked by consistent production and, eventually, a strategic acquisition. From its inception, the company focused on fiberglass construction, a material that was revolutionizing boatbuilding due to its durability and ease of molding. Over two decades, the Moorhead plant churned out thousands of boats, distributing them globally.
A notable diversification occurred around 1970 when Silverline ventured into sailboat manufacturing. These sailboats were designed by the talented duo Glenn and Murray Corcoran. Interestingly, the tooling for these sailboats reportedly originated from the Dolphin 17 Co., then located in Coffeyville, Kansas, a company also known for the Dolphin 17 sailboat.
A significant corporate change came with the acquisition of Silverline by Arctic Enterprises, a prominent snowmobile manufacturer, around 1970. This acquisition was part of a broader strategy by Arctic Enterprises, which also saw them acquire other well-known boat companies like Larson and Lund. Despite this change in ownership, Silverline continued to produce boats, though the Minnesota plant ultimately ceased operations in 1980.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Silverline Boats quickly earned a reputation for its fiberglass powerboats. While specifics on their detailed design philosophy are less documented, their enduring presence in the market for two decades suggests a commitment to practical, well-built vessels that appealed to a wide range of recreational boaters. Their use of fiberglass from the outset positioned them as a modern builder embracing the material's advantages in construction and maintenance.
The involvement of Glenn and Murray Corcoran in the design of their sailboats indicates a serious approach to this segment, leveraging experienced naval architects to ensure their sailing craft met specific performance or cruising criteria.
Iconic Models and Legacy
While specific production numbers for individual models are not readily available, Silverline was known for its diverse range of fiberglass powerboats, from utilitarian fishing boats to sporty runabouts. The "Free Way" and "Silver Line" series were their initial offerings, setting the stage for their product lines. Though less information is available on their sailboat models beyond the Corcoran designs, their foray into this market demonstrates an ambition to cater to a broader boating community.
After the closure of the original Moorhead factory in 1980, the Silverline brand name did not entirely vanish. It was acquired by a new entity, Internautic Marine Group, and powerboats continued to be built under the Silverline name at other locations for several years. This extension of the brand's life, even under different ownership and manufacturing, underscores the recognition and value associated with the Silverline name.
The Builder Today
The original Silverline Boats company, as it existed in Moorhead, Minnesota, is no longer operational, with its factory closing its doors in 1980. The name, however, found a new life with Internautic Marine Group, and boats continued to be produced under the Silverline brand for some time thereafter. While the specific current status of a direct lineage or active production under the "Silverline Boats" name from the Internautic era is unclear, the brand occasionally appears in the pre-owned market, with models as recent as 2001 (e.g., a 1700FS) being listed for sale. Modern applications of the "Silver Line" name exist, such as certain RIBs from Grand Boats, but these appear to be entirely separate entities and not a continuation of the original American builder's legacy.
Today, the legacy of Silverline Boats rests with the thousands of fiberglass powerboats and some sailboats that still ply the waters, a testament to the vision of its founders and its two decades of prolific production in the American heartland. Enthusiasts and owners often connect through various online forums and classic boat communities, cherishing these durable vessels and keeping the Silverline name alive.
