My first brush with Century

[Bill Basler]

I could arguably say that my first brush with almost owning a wooden boat came in 1983, just off Beach Road in Door County, WI. On a quick exploration of the property that was for sale across the street, I came across an old Resorter, under a tarp. Glass Windshield, not plastic, and plank (as I recall) not plywood. Aside from being under a brown canvas tarp that was covered with lichen, and pieces of firewood to weight it down, it had enough branches and pine needles on it to keep her well hidden.

I did not drag that boat home, but I thought about it for months. I am sure that the cost would have been free, or negligible.

I have often wondered what happened to that old Century.

[mcisaac inc]

i was just thinking in terms of production numbers or boats produced...............mark

[Matt Smith]

The century design team was clearly a more fun place to work. It looks like they did not take them selves so seriously. And the result is some very cool iconic boats.

[Ken Miller]

The Century design team grew up and had kids of their own.........all those kids grew up and formed a totally different design team. You know........they do those Escalades with the 24" rims, 11 plasma screens, stereo components you can hear thumping in the next zip code........

Ken.

[Matt Smith]

And 20 years from now, no one is going to care about a Ford Explorer, and pay big bucks for that Escalade. Thats the power and curse of a more trendy design.

[1971vet]

Every wooden boater should have a Century in the garage! I have a 1960 Coronado that I had to have when I saw one of the gaudiest looking boats in history. Yes the Century boats are a little weaker in hulls and transoms but when restored properly they will last like Chris Crafts. They are a boat that was made for speed and engine offerings show this. I love my Chris Craft but the Century is a very fun and unique ride as well. A side note the early glass boats like Arabians will bring as good of price as early Chris Craft glass. Century owners clubs aren't as wide spread as Chris Crafts but they are a fun group. One last thought - my Coronado engine carbs are the same as the 53 Corvette and Corvairs - oops maybe I shouldn't hang my hat on that one!! PS: Bill I hope to see you at our Clear Lake Iowa boat show on July 19th!!