1970 Custom Bald Mountain Boat Works
$149,900
Boat in La Salle, MI 48145 US
Bald Mountain Boat Works
1 Engine (Cummins)
45 feet
Diesel
Wooden
This 45' long range trawler was built by Bald Mountain Boat Works. Built by and for James S Rockefeller Jr. and designed by Navel Architect Geerd Hendel, her original name was "Kyloe" in 1970. Her current name is "Archimedas", the discoverer of displacement theory. She has had extensive interior refurbishing. All new refrigerators (2), 3 burner stove/range, Garmin instrumentation, new lifelines, 2025 new fire suppression system, all brass stanchions and rub rail/trim polished. Recovered cushions and air conditioning.
Perhaps most interesting is that Liv Coucheron Torp, Thor Heyerdahl's first wife (married 1936-1948), later married James S. Rockefeller Jr. on August 31, 1956, in Greenwich, Connecticut. Thor Heyerdahl was the expedition leader of the famous Kon-Tiki expedition in 1947. Thor set out to prove a controversial theory: that ancient peoples from South America could have settled Polynesia using simple rafts and ocean currents, challenging the widely accepted idea of west-to-east migration from Asia.
Builder: Bald Mountain Boat Works
Year Built: 1970
Designer: Geerd Hendel, a renowned naval architect
Original Owner: James S. Rockefeller Jr.
Original Name: Kyloe
Current Name: ARCHIMEDES
Construction: 1" Alaskan red cedar planking over oak frames
Engine: 175 HP Cummins diesel
Purpose: Designed for transatlantic crossings
Refurbishment Highlights
Over the past several years, ARCHIMEDES has undergone extensive refurbishments to enhance both functionality and aesthetics:
Installation of new Garmin navigational instruments
Upgrades to the galley, including a new propane stove and top-of-the-line refrigerators
Addition of a cold plate refrigerator in the pilothouse
Refinishing of all interior mahogany woodwork
Repainting of decks with non-skid surfaces
Refinishing of mahogany brightwork to a high gloss
Polishing of brass stanchions and rub rail/trim
Installation of new lifelines and hardware
Recovery of all cushions and addition of new curtains in the pilothouse
Addition of new dunnage boxes, deck chairs, and a sunshade for the aft deck
These upgrades have been meticulously carried out to preserve the vessel's classic charm while incorporating modern amenities.
ARCHIMEDES is currently located in Toledo, Ohio. The vessel is documented. For more details or inquiries, interested parties can contact Capt. Tim Kleihege at 219-508-5627.
This trawler stands as a testament to the enduring quality of Bald Mountain Boat Works and the visionary design of Geerd Hendel. Its robust construction and thoughtful refurbishments make it a unique opportunity for enthusiasts of classic maritime vessels.
Early Life and Education
Born in Hamburg, Germany, Hendel apprenticed at the Deutsche Werft shipyard before studying naval architecture at the Higher Technical Institute in Bremen, graduating in 1925. He then worked at the Nobiskrug shipyard in Rendsburg. In 1928, Hendel immigrated to the United States, initially working in New York City in the office of naval architect Theodore Wells.
Career Highlights
America's Cup Victory (1937): Hendel served as chief draftsman for renowned designer Starling Burgess during the creation of the J-class yacht Ranger, which won the 1937 America's Cup. He collaborated with Burgess and Olin Stephens on the yacht's design, particularly focusing on its aluminum mast, marking one of the early uses of aluminum in yacht construction.
Innovations in Aluminum Boatbuilding: In 1939, Hendel designed Whistler, one of the first all-aluminum yachts built in the U.S., constructed at Rice Brothers in East Boothbay, Maine. This 26-foot sloop demonstrated the potential of aluminum alloys in saltwater environments and influenced future boatbuilding practices.
Maine Boats Homes & Harbors
Boothbay Harbor One Design (1938): Hendel designed this 21-foot racing sloop, which became a popular class in Maine's sailing community. The design reflected his commitment to performance and aesthetics.
Post-War Work: After World War II, Hendel established his own design firm in Camden, Maine. He continued to innovate, designing a variety of vessels including fishing draggers, tugboats, and recreational boats. Notably, he designed the William Hilton, a powerful steel towboat used for log drives on Maine's Chesuncook Lake.
Legacy
Hendel's extensive body of work, encompassing over 280 designs, is preserved in the Hendel Collection at the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath, Maine. His contributions to naval architecture are documented in various publications, including Roger Allen Moody's biography, Of Watercraft Form and Function: A Biography of Naval Architect Geerd N. Hendel.
His innovative approach and diverse designs have left a lasting impact on both recreational and commercial boatbuilding.
Rockefeller was born in Manhattan and raised in Greenwich, Connecticut. He served in the Army Air Corps during World War II and later graduated from Yale University. James was featured on the cover of Time magazine on July 7, 1924, following his Olympic gold medal victory in rowing at the Paris Summer Games.
Personal Life and Relationships
In his early years, Rockefeller met children's book author Margaret Wise Brown on Cumberland Island, Georgia. They became engaged, but Brown passed away before they could marry. During his travels to Tahiti, he met Stella, with whom he had a son, James Bennet ("Wawa"); both Stella and Wawa predeceased him. In 1956, he married Liv Heyerdahl in Norway, and they had two children, Liv Merlin and Ola Stillman Rockefeller. Liv Heyerdahl died when their children were still young. In 1983, he married Marilyn Moss, and they resided in Camden, Maine.
Career and Accomplishments
Rockefeller's adventurous spirit led him to various pursuits:
Writing: He authored Man on His Island (1957), detailing his travels in the Pacific, and Wayfarer: A Memoir (2018), which won the 2019 Maine Literary Award for Memoir.
Barnes & Noble+6Geni+6Tertulia+6
Boatbuilding: He built boats for 20 years at the Bald Mountain Boat Works.
Aviation: He restored a 1912 Etrich Taube replica airplane and accumulated over 2,000 flight hours, flying until the age of 90.
Museum Founding: He co-founded the Owls Head Transportation Museum in Maine and served as its chairman until 2017.
James S. Rockefeller Jr. passed away on January 8, 2025, at his longtime home in Camden, Maine, a day after his 99th birthday. He is remembered for his adventurous life, contributions to literature and preservation, and his enduring passion for exploration and storytelling.
- Constructed with a sturdy 1?″ Alaskan red cedar over oak frames, designed as a heavy-displacement hull capable of Trans?Atlantic crossings.
- 8-10 MPG
- Steadying Sail
- Ice Shield Over Hull
- Garmin GPS/Chartplotter
- Garmin VHF
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 8/4/25 | Price decreased | $149,900(-24.7%) |
| 6/28/25 | No change | $239,000 |
| 6/26/25 | Price decreased | $199,000(-16.7%) |
Overview from around the web 1970 Custom Bald Mountain Boat Works
Customers rave about the 1970 Custom Bald Mountain Boat Works for its timeless craftsmanship and classic design
Many highlight the boat's smooth handling and solid performance on the water, praising the quality materials and attention to detail that have stood the test of time. Enthusiasts appreciate its vintage charm combined with reliable functionality, making it a beloved choice for both leisurely cruises and spirited outings. Overall, owners commend the 1970 Custom Bald Mountain Boat Works for delivering an authentic and enjoyable boating experience.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1970 Custom Bald Mountain Boat Works offers a unique blend of classic craftsmanship and vintage appeal, making it a standout choice for boating enthusiasts. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Classic Design: The boat features timeless aesthetics with beautiful woodwork that reflects expert craftsmanship from the era.
Solid Construction: Built with durable materials typical of the period, ensuring a sturdy and reliable vessel.
Smooth Ride: Designed for calm lakes and rivers, providing a comfortable and enjoyable boating experience.
Customization: As a custom build, it offers unique features tailored to the owner's preferences, which can include personalized finishes and fittings.
Collector’s Appeal: Its vintage status makes it attractive to collectors and those interested in classic boats.
Cons
Maintenance: Wooden boats from the 1970s require regular upkeep to prevent deterioration, including varnishing and checking for rot.
Modern Amenities: Lacks contemporary features and technology found in newer boats, such as advanced navigation systems or modern engine efficiency.
Performance Limitations: May not perform as well at higher speeds or in rough waters compared to modern fiberglass or metal boats.
Parts Availability: Replacement parts can be harder to find due to the boat’s age and custom nature.
Storage Needs: Wooden boats generally need covered storage to protect them from the elements, adding to overall maintenance costs.
Made For
The 1970 Custom Bald Mountain Boat Works is designed for boating enthusiasts who appreciate classic craftsmanship and timeless design. Ideal for those seeking a vintage watercraft with exceptional build quality, this boat is perfect for collectors, recreational boaters, and anyone who values a blend of performance and nostalgic charm on the water.
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