John F. Leavitt (1905–1974)

A pleasant perambulation through the history of the coastal Schooners of the American East Coast, charming illustrated with the vibrant sketches of the author, an ex-coaster man himself.

Loaded with photos of those great swans of commerce, including one of the author aboard one of his favorites at age 15, and over 150 of those beautifully conceived sailing ships – surely the only commercial thing of lasting beauty man has invented.

Reminiscent of the histories of the Thames Barges of the end of the century, this work details the passing of the graceful Coasters, who met the same fate of neglect, rot and abandonment.

Perhaps as we consume all the remaining fossil fuels we might see - but in the too distant future- a return of such gently efficient transport.… (meer)