While perusing the Cruising Club of America (CCA) website a few days ago we noticed an item on a partially completed book by Rod Stephens, he of Sparkman and Stephens fame (along with designer brother Olin). We knew, worked with on occasion, and immensely respected this wonderful seaman. Although our meetings and chats over the years were brief, we felt a connection (Rod’s book is available for download on the next page).
While Olin got the acclaim as designer, Rod was equally important to their success as designers and owners representatives. It was Rod’s job to periodically visit the yards building their designs and make sure things were done right. He conducted sea trials, and dealt with the rig, rigging, and systems details in the office. All of this as important (or more) to a successful build as the lines plan.
You can download Rod’s manuscript here (and thanks to the current management of S and S for making it available).
Posted by Steve Dashew (February 28, 2011)
February 28th, 2011 at 4:47 am
Fantastic reading, thanks for posting this, I’m half way already and enjoying it very much… Such a wealth of hard one experiance in this book from one of the greats.
February 28th, 2011 at 12:51 pm
Thanks for keeping your posts coming. Us NW US “shut-ins” really need your stories and info. to make it through the long, wet winters.
February 28th, 2011 at 3:08 pm
Good reading. Wonderful sailor and lessons.
March 4th, 2011 at 2:52 pm
Having spent a fair amount of time at sea myself, you can really tell this guy knows what he’s talking about. Prepare for the worst, expect the best! Thank you for posting this manuscript and thank you for providing so much information on your website.