Synopsis
First published in 1911, D.C. Beard's classic how-to was designed to help boys build small craft ranging from a log raft to a houseboat. Based on the age of his audience, Beard assumed only the most basic of skills from potential builders, and his resulting directions and plans have become a classic in the school of "quick and dirty" boatbuilding.
In addition, Beard covers the basics of nautical safety, sailing, and basic seamanship; how to rig a small boat or canoe for sailing; and a handy guide to knots for almost any nautical or harbor situation.
Beard, one of the co-founders of the scouting program in America, wrote this book with the single idea that boats and boating should be an accessible and safe sport for people of all skill levels and all levels of income so that nothing should prevent anyone from enjoying the pleasure of being on the water.