The Eldredge-McInnis cutter PROWESS on the water with a tree-lined shore in the background.Benjamin Mendlowitz

The 47′ Eldredge-McInnis cutter PROWESS was launched at the Stockden boatyard in Detroit, Michigan, in 1947.

“Dad, what is that lovely boat parked in the yard of Belmont Boat Works on Maine's Route 3?" daughter Kathy asked. "She's spectacular!”

“Must be PROWESS,” I replied, “and thanks. She’s a perfect example of a classic that needs saving.”

The Maine Island Trail Association (MITA) accepted PROWESS as a donation a couple of years ago hoping that through use and subsequent sale she’d help fulfill their mission of establishing, promoting, and shepherding campsites along the Maine coast. After a single season of MITA sailing, she’s been in storage awaiting a buyer. Mostly, she’s been in a shed, but she was recently extracted and placed near the highway to pull in potential new owners.

50+ YEARS OF PREMIUM CONTENT

WoodenBoat All Access
WoodenBoat All Access delivers every word, every photograph, every video, and every beautiful boat we’ve published since 1974—plus much more!
Subscribe

Already a member? log in