Hatteras History

[Tyson Philyaw]

Does anyone know the history of how Willis Slane created Hatteras? This is what I know and I am looking for confirmation:

A group from High Point went to the Coast Duck Hunting. A storm came in which caused the hunting party to return back to the beach cottage.

At that time, Willis overlooking the turbulent ocean, stated fiberglass would be the perfect fishing boat for the NC coast.

I read a clip from Field and Stream many years ago to my Grandfather, and that is how I learned more about his involvement.

Several of the hunting party became partners. One did not. This individual started his own company - North American Fiberglass Corp. (NAFCO) Created 29 boats; broke even, and returned to being a Doctor in High Point. This individual was my Grandfather, W.W.Tyson.

Recently, Tom Slane generously provided some old catalogs from NAFCO, and these are in my office. These will be passed down as heirlooms.

Does anyone know more about the people on the trip and their stories?

Either way, I have a strong passion for the Hatteras brand; which lead me to this site. All of your boats are beatuiful, I especially enjoy the pictures of the 70 era sportfisherman's.


Thanks

Tyson Philyaw

 

[smoothmove]

Sounds like you have a pretty good handle on this and perhaps you already have "The Yachts and Ships of Jack Hargrave," but if not, it's a great book for you to research as it covers the Hatteras creation story quite thoroughly.

Eric

 

[jim rosenthal]

The best account of this is in the Hargrave book, so far. Although there has been interest at various times in a written history of the company (including on my part), no book has yet been written. See PM.

 

[MarioG]

Try this:

http://www.samsmarine.com/HatterasStory/HatterasStory.htm

 

[SeaEric]

I seem to remember boats by North American from when I was a youngster (many years ago). If I recall, the logo had an outline of a map of the US, etc. Is that correct? The boats I remember were in the 20-26 ft size range.

 

[Tyson Philyaw]

The length is correct, but I am unaware of the logo. I think the boats would be in the Piedmont area of NC, especially Badin Lake.

Not sure if there are any around. I know his personal boat "Queen Mary" was on the water 11 years ago. I need to do more research on these also.

Thanks for everyones help.

Tyson