Constructed primarily of high-grade cedar or mahogany over oak frames, the Lake OD was part of the Skaneateles firm’s pivot toward "one-design" philosophy, which prioritized identical hulls to ensure that victory was determined by seamanship rather than the depth of a skipper's wallet. While less globally famous than its larger cousin, the Rhodes Bantam, the Lake OD remains a cherished specimen among wooden boat enthusiasts, particularly those associated with the Finger Lakes Boating Museum, which preserves the history of the Skaneateles Boat & Canoe Co. and its successor.
Sailing Performance & Handling
The Rhodes Lake OD is characterized by the hallmark balance and predictability found in most Philip Rhodes designs. At 11.5 feet, the boat is relatively short, but its generous beam provides a stable platform that resists the twitchiness often associated with contemporary racing dinghies of similar length. The hull features a hard-chine design, which allows it to "lock in" when heeled, providing a definitive point of stability that gives novice sailors confidence in gusty conditions.
Under sail, the Lake OD typically employs a simple sloop rig. Because the boat was intended for lake use where winds can be fluky and localized, the sail plan is optimized for light-to-moderate air performance. It tracks remarkably well for a boat without a deep keel, thanks to a well-proportioned centerboard. Handling is described by traditionalists as "honest"; the helm provides clear feedback without being punishing. While it lacks the planing speed of modern fiberglass dinghies, its displacement-style hull move efficiently through the water, making it an excellent platform for teaching the nuances of sail trim and weight distribution.
Popular Mentions & Media
The cultural footprint of the Rhodes Lake OD is deeply intertwined with the history of the Skaneateles Lake sailing community. It is frequently cited in regional historical texts, such as "The Wooden Boats of Skaneateles N.Y.," a definitive volume documenting the town’s maritime heritage. The model is a staple of the Skaneateles Antique & Classic Boat Show, where restored examples are often showcased as representations of the "Golden Age" of wooden one-designs. While it has not been the subject of major motion pictures, it remains a primary reference point in the archives of the Mystic Seaport Museum, which houses many of Philip Rhodes' original plans and technical drawings.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective owners of a Rhodes Lake OD must approach a purchase with the mindset of a conservator rather than a casual sailor. As these are vintage wooden vessels, several technical areas require rigorous inspection:
- Centerboard Trunk Integrity: The junction where the centerboard trunk meets the keelson is a notorious site for leaks and rot. Because this area is under constant stress and often remains damp, the wood can soften, leading to structural failure.
- Rib and Frame Decay: The steam-bent oak ribs of Skaneateles-built boats are prone to "necking" or snapping at the turn of the bilge if the boat has been stored in properly or allowed to dry out excessively.
- Fastener Fatigue: Original builds used bronze or copper fasteners. Over eight decades, these can undergo "de-zincification" or simply work loose due to the natural expansion and contraction of the wood planks.
- Canvas-Covered Decks: Many Lake ODs featured canvas-covered cedar decks. If the paint seal on the canvas is breached, water will inevitably rot the sub-decking, a repair that requires stripping the entire top surface of the boat.
Community & Resources
The primary hub for information and preservation of the Rhodes Lake OD is the Finger Lakes Boating Museum in Hammondsport, New York. This organization maintains the most comprehensive records of Skaneateles Boats, Inc., and offers resources for those attempting to authenticate hull numbers or restore original hardware. Additionally, the Philip Rhodes collection at the Mystic Seaport Museum Library provides access to original design specifications for those needing to recreate components to the designer’s exact requirements.
The Verdict
The Rhodes Lake OD is a masterpiece of small-scale naval architecture that offers a tactile, historical sailing experience. While it requires significantly more maintenance than a modern plastic boat, its pedigree and elegant lines make it a rewarding project for the dedicated wooden boat enthusiast.
Pros:
- Exceptional stability and forgiving handling for an 11-foot boat.
- Deep historical pedigree from the legendary Philip Rhodes and Skaneateles Boats.
- Beautiful aesthetic that stands out in any harbor or classic boat show.
Cons:
- High maintenance requirements inherent to vintage cedar and oak construction.
- Limited availability of replacement parts; most hardware must be sourced from salvage or custom-fabricated.
- Lacks the speed and "thrill factor" of modern, high-performance dinghies.
