“These books, which will appear from time to time as a serial publication, are edited by William Atkin assisted by his son, John.
William Atkin is the well-known yacht designer and writer, whose practical experience in boat building, naval architecture, small boat cruising, and editorial work on the magazines Yachting, Rudder, Motor Boating, Motor Boat, and Fore An Aft, turn back as many as forty year of time.
It is this long experience that guarantees the performance and practicability of the designs and the authenticity and genuineness of the editorial matter presented.
Each of these books is complete in itself and each features the inimitable articles and designs by William Atkin, for amateur and professional builders.
They also feature a most reliable “Store of Information”, the advice and sage wisdom of which you may feel secure in following. This information is based on actual experience of the Books’ editors and is also compiled from other highly accurate sources.
The Books also tell about-proven(sic) methods of construction, engine installation, useful equipment, and boat building practices; small boat handling, cruising, overhauling and all those subjects relished by the fraternity that goes afloat for recreation. [...]” (flap copy)
- Title: The First Book of Boats: Published in the interest of small boat enthusiasts, owners, and prospective owners
- Author: William Atkin and John Atkin
- Publisher: Anchordown Company
- Place: Darien, CT
- Year: 1947
- Length: 143pp
- Dimensions: 36” x 8.5” x 0.75”
- Condition: The dustjacket is noticeably worn and faded. It has become brittle with age, leading to cracks, tears, and small voids along the edges and hinges. The grey cloth-covered boards are in good condition, only gently worn. The binding is tight. No pages are missing. The endpapers are somewhat tanned. The pages of the text block are clean and not particularly darkened. There are no folds, tears, or extraneous marks.