Publisher: Bosun Publications; £14.99
Publication Date: 2007
Not an orthodox biography, more a social history of the times and people during Austin Farrow’s life. Born to parents who on the father’s side were colonial administrators and on the mother’s side were experimental and innovative farmers and founders of an artificial fertiliser factory.
His ambition was to become a marine engineer, but in the thirties with the depression, Austin apprenticed at the famous Phillips boat yard on the Dart, experienced a much wider degree of skill and experience of all boat building trades. Starting his apprenticeship with a ‘posh’ voice he was christened Clarence by his workmates a name which stuck and one that set well with him.
Farrow’s life stretched from the days when gentlemen had a yacht designed and built on a one off basis, to the days of mass production when everyman was able to get afloat.
He designed from the thirties both dinghies and offshore racers well into an age when most men would have retired. His venture into sail making, together with Leslie Widdicombe came after a period running a boat yard shortly after the war. Seahorse Sails became synonymous with quality, his spinnaker and wing designs and the use of synthetics are still seen in use today.
Several articles published in yachting magazines are in the book. There is much fine detail in the description of copper work when an apprentice, to the use of the trapeze, and the use of cold moulding techniques.
An interesting book about the skill of yacht design, building and the men who built and sailed. Sadly not enough about Austin Farrar the man. - DG