LB2013.1.347.12

LB2013.1.347.12

C-class sloops in storage The "C" Class sloop originated in Chester, Nova Scotia in the 1930s, when a group of yachtsmen, concerned with an overall lack of variety in sailing vessels in the area, approached Reuben Heisler to design a new class of cruising yacht. Heisler's design hit the water in 1937 and gained in popularity as the season progressed. One of the first sloops built was Whim, commissioned from Heisler by Mrs. Alberta Pew. In 1938, Whim bested the competition by winning the Chester Bay Challenge. As the decade passed, most of the sloops were sold to other yachtsmen as their fame drew them away from Chester Basin. As a class of sailing vessel, they remain beautiful examples of their era and a joy to behold in action. For more information on the "C" Class sloop and yachting in Chester Basin, please consult Claudette Sapp's book, "Sailors & Rattling Teacups", a history of the Chester Yacht Club. Typical class details: Length Overall: 37ft 4 inches Length Waterline: 25 ft Beam: 8 ft 4 inches Length of Mast: 51 ft RIG: Marconi-rigged with spinnaker & club footed jib Construction: Carvel planked white pine over steam bent oak frames, oak backbone, stem & keel