Chris-Craft: 1910, Smith Ryan Boat & Engine Co.

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Fueled by the success of their small hunting boat operation, and by the recent availability of small internal combustion engines, Chris and his oldest son Jay, began experimenting with their first powered watercraft. During a time when paddles and oars, and possibly steam power were still the norm, their first gas-powered outboard would make 16 miles per hour. Engine reliability, of course, was a constant challenge, and tinkering with these early motors became an integral part of early power boat life.

In 1910, Chris Smith teamed up with John "Baldy" Ryan. Mr. Ryan was an Algonac area native, with a serious interest in boat racing. As important, Mr. Ryan had the funds to invest in his hobby, and in Chris Smith's continued development of powered watercraft.

The two entered into a working relationship and the Smith Ryan Boat & Engine Company was formed. This venture was Chris Smith's first relationship—one of many in his career—that coupled his unbridled experimentation with the money to do so. The Smith Ryan Boat & Engine Company went on to produce race-ready single-step hydroplanes, which "Baldy" Ryan piloted in the fast-growing new sport of powerboat racing.

The partners perfected their skills—Smith, as hull designer and boat builder—and Ryan as company figurehead, competitor and financier. In 1910, The Smith and Ryan Boat Company displayed Queen Reliance, at the National Motor Boat Show in New York. She was a 29-foot single-step hydroplane reported to achieve speeds to 35 miles per hour.

A milestone boat created by the Smith Ryan Boat & Engine Company was Baby Reliance I, built for wealthy boat racing enthusiast, J. Stuart Blackton. Baby Reliance I came with a bold guarantee from Chris Smith—that the boat would top 40 miles per hour, or it wouldn't cost a dime. Baby Reliance I broke the 40 mile per hour goal with ease, only to sink when Blackton, and Chris Smith's son Jay hit a submerged log.

This setback did not diminish Blackton's enthusiasm for Smith & Ryan's product—as he placed orders for Baby Reliance II and Baby Reliance III

Blackton renamed Baby Reliance III to Baby Speed Demon and entered her in the 1914 Gold Cup competition.

Baby Speed Demon captured the Gold Cup for Blackton, but with his cash reserve running dry, the Smith Ryan Boat & Engine Company was closed down.

[edit] References

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