SOLITAIRE, Kingston Lobster Boat by Edward A. Ransome

SOLITAIRE is one of the larger counter­-stem and hollow-garboard models, both features introduced by her builder, Edward A. Ransom of Kingston, MA in this boat.  This boat has been owned by two Mystic Seaport staff members.  Captain Jim Kleinschmidt, one of the first people at the Museum responsible for the watercraft collection, took her lines when he owned her. Mike Sturgis, education and development officer, got her and rebuilt her in 1968. Construction plans were made from the original data verified while taking lines. She has been rerigged with a gaff main, dropping about 140 square feet from the original mainsail, but making her a little easier to handle than spritsail.  From 87 Boat Designs by Ben Fuller.  Plans drawn by Mystic Seaport staff.