Classic Motoryacht Designers: Leigh Coolidge

Leigh CoolidgeNaval architect Leigh H. Coolidge, 1870-1959, was responsible for a wide range of motoryachts designed in the 20's and 30's. He was born in Boston but moved to the Seattle area in 1890.  Known as "The Duke" because of his fancy dress and formal demeanor, he was the designer that N.J. Blanchard turned to for his line of 36' standardized cruisers, many of which are still around today.  Coolidge was considered a perfectionist, and was known for his prolific workboat designs -- his WWII "Miki" tugs are famous -- as well as for his yachts. He designed ferry boats, tug boats, rumrunners, and barges with equal skill.