Utility
Name/Title
UtilityEntry/Object ID
1977.010Description
In the years immediately following World War II, Gar Wood's 16-foot Sport Utility was one of the hottest new models of the postwar fleet. The decision at Gar Wood was to prepare totally new designs for the postwar market. There would be no carry-over of the prewar designs. It would be a fresh start. There had never been a 16-foot utility style in the Gar Wood fleet and this boat would be a significant change for them. Engine info from Everett Smith 1994. They called this model the Ensign and their decision to have the standard hull painted white was a prudent choice. It resulted in lower building costs, more appeal to first time buyers and did not deplete their limited supply of uniform mahogany that was a problem during the years immediately following the war. Gar Wood wanted to increase its number of franchised dealerships across the country in 1945 and this compact sport utility would have a lot of appeal for new dealers with its modest price and ease of handling. The boat was fast and when it got up on a plane, it was a thrill to drive. The Ensign was also offered with the larger Chrysler Crown engine that made it an exciting performer. Gar Wood built more Ensigns than any other model in their 25-year production history.Collection
BoatsAcquisition
Accession
1977.010Source or Donor
Prendergast, John F.Made/Created
Manufacturer
Gar WoodDate made
1946Edition
Model: Sport UtilityNotes
Early Date: 1946 Propulsion: Inboard Engine: Chrysler Ace, model SM6, serial 16229, mid 1940's? MPH: 35 0.0 Cylinders: 6 HP: 93 Field 13: Electrics Maker Auto Lite Four Stroke Gas Engine 48"L 24"W 24"HOther Names and Numbers
Other Numbers
Number Type
Other NumberOther Number
NY 1810 EVNumber Type
Old NumberOther Number
648Dimensions
Width
72 inLength
192 inLocation
Bartlett Point Barn 4
unknown
*Edward John Noble Historic Stone Building
*Don Doebler Collections Storage Facility
Bartlett Point Barn 4