$195.00
Mary Taylor | 1850 New York Pilot Boat. Designed by George Steers, who later made history as the designer of the most famous yacht in the world…AMERICA!
Speed and maneuverability were of the essence for these purpose designed and built working boats. In order to receive a piloting commission, boats would race to be first to greet incoming ships entering New York Harbor.
The Mary Taylor was a prominent pilot boat that sailed the waters of New York in the mid-19th century. Built in 1850, she quickly gained a reputation for her sturdy construction and reliable service. The Mary Taylor was specifically designed for the dangerous and unpredictable waters of the New York harbor, where strong currents, changing tides, and heavy traffic posed significant challenges for ships entering and leaving the port. As a pilot boat, her primary function was to transport pilots to and from ships that needed their expertise in navigating the treacherous harbor. These pilots were crucial for the safe passage of ships, as they possessed intimate knowledge of the local waters and could guide vessels through the hazardous channels and shoals.
While this excellent solid hull model of a schooner is perfect for the less experienced builder, her graceful lines make her an interesting subject for any modeler. It is important to note that some pictured items may have been built with optional items not included as part of standard kits, such as pedestals, bases, cases, paint, etc.
If there are any questions about the contents of a particular kit, please contact Bluejacket.
Paint Kit Contents:
Thinner (1 oz)
Clear
Primer
Flat Black
Flat White
Italian Dark Brown
Signalbraun
Gold
Copper
Grun
Dark Green
LOA: 20″
Scale: 3/16″
Finished Model: $2,100.00
The Mary Taylor was a beautiful vessel, measuring 90 feet in length and 22 feet in width, with a sleek and streamlined design that allowed her to cut through the choppy waters with ease. She was built using the finest materials available, including sturdy oak and teak wood, and her hull was reinforced with iron plates for added strength. The interior of the boat was also carefully crafted, with comfortable quarters for the pilots and a spacious deck for them to observe and guide ships from.
The Mary Taylor quickly became a familiar sight in the New York harbor, with her distinctive black hull and white sails standing out against the busy backdrop of ships and buildings. She was also known for her speed and agility, making her a favorite among the pilots who relied on her to get them to their destinations quickly and safely. She was also equipped with the latest navigational tools, including a powerful telescope and a state-of-the-art compass, which helped the pilots accurately guide ships through the harbor.
Despite her impressive appearance and capabilities, the Mary Taylor faced many challenges during her time as a pilot boat. She often had to navigate through dense fog, strong winds, and rough seas to reach ships in need of pilot services. She also had to contend with other pilot boats vying for business, as well as the competition from steam-powered tugboats that were becoming increasingly popular for guiding ships. However, the Mary Taylor’s skilled crew and reliable service kept her in high demand, and she continued to serve the New York harbor for many years.
Sadly, the Mary Taylor met her fate in the late 1860s when she was caught in a violent storm while returning from a pilot mission. Despite the valiant efforts of her crew, the boat capsized and sank, taking the lives of several crew members with her. She may have been lost to the depths of the harbor, but the legacy of the Mary Taylor lives on through the stories and memories of those who sailed on her. She remains a symbol of the brave and skilled pilots who risked their lives to guide ships through the treacherous waters of the New York harbor, and her legacy continues to inspire awe and admiration for the sea-faring vessels of the past.
Join over 5,000 readers of our monthly newsletter!
$195.00
Join over 5,000 readers of our monthly newsletter!
© 2025 Bluejacket Shipcrafters, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Privacy and Terms of Use Policy.
