45' New York 32 Class Sloop (1936) - FALCON

In September 1986 Wooden Boat magazine’s Maynard Bray wrote: ”The New York 32’s, which were launched—20 boats strong—from the Henry B. Nevins yard just 50 years ago in 1936…about two-thirds of the fleet is still sailing. The boats have long been geographically dispersed—due, in large part, to the disruption caused by World War II—but even so, four NY32’s rendezvoused in their one-time home waters this past summer in celebration of their half-century mark.” Maynard continued, quoting 1936 yachting periodicals—Yachting: “It has been coming for years…a design by Sparkman & Stephens…every feature tried and proven…built to the Cruising Club rule…five of them will probably enter the Bermuda race this year.” The Rudder: “[the NY32’s] removed all doubt as to their superiority…they have been well-nigh unbeatable.” And about Rod Stevens, who owed hull # 17, Mustang from 1946-1969, Maynard wrote “he looks back on the NY32 as one of the best designs he has ever known.” Today Maynard reminisces—”Olin Stephens raced on Falcon on the Maine coast for his last decade. As many as six of his NY32’s have come to race in the Eggemoggin Reach Regatta. Three more are on the way. I sailed with Olin on Falcon in June 2008 on our way to Brooklin Boat Yard to see the launching of S&S’s latest creation Anna who was inspired by his Stormy Weather. Though we did not know it at the time, it was Olin’s last sail.”