As as young teenager, I sailed on an Ensign quite often, as there was one on our dock, owned by a couple really nice guys who didn’t know too much about sailing. I did! And when I wasn’t racing my Sabot, they always asked me to come out and show them more about it. I loved the boat, and I understand why there are so many enthusiastic Ensign sailor and owners. This is some good news for the class- tempesta.
My brother and I have been on a mission to assemble a team of both experienced boat builders and metal component machinists to build not only new Ensigns, but also a team able to supply the owners of current Ensigns with new parts. The Ensign Class Association has awarded new boats builds to the Thoroughbred Boat Company of Manistee, Michigan with a staff that has many decades of boat building experience.
Pearson built 1775 Ensigns from 1962 to 1983; the hull and deck molds, owned by the ECA, were previously in the care of Ensign Spars of Dunedin FL / Marquette MI / Cleveland OH, where some 35 new boats were built from 2000 to 2025; ownership changes and material sourcing factored into the limited number of boats produced since 1983.
As of today, Thoroughbred has one new deck constructed with work currently underway to perfect the hull mold. The new deck and hulls will be made with premium materials and modern deck cores. All new hulls and decks will target the same weigh as previously built Ensigns to further the one-design strength of the Class.
With many hours of meetings / communications, the new Ensign by Thoroughbred is nearing the first boat build. Peacock Industries will be providing all metal components, standing rigging and running rigging. All hardware to be Harken.
Many thanks to the Ensign Class Board and the team at Thoroughbred and Peacock to arrive at this new chapter in the life of the Ensign. It seems everyone has known or sailed an Ensign at some point, which is likely why it’s in the Hall of Fame, and we all wish to see the Ensign live and thrive into the future as one of the great all time day-sailor / racers. And thanks to all the active Fleets nationwide, the Ensign has remained relevant and important to maritime history. Go sail an Ensign, the “little-big-boat” is alive and well.
Norman Dodds – team organizer volunteer/liaison
Bill Dodds – Owner Peacock Industries
