Boys' Book of Model Boats

"Boys' Book of Model Boats" by Raymond F. Yates is a how-to guide on building model boats, written in the early 20th century. This instructive book aims at young enthusiasts, helping them engage with the art of boat modeling through detailed instructions and illustrations. It covers a variety of boat types and construction methods, from simple wooden models to more complex steam and electric-powered vessels. The beginning of the book introduces the author's inspiration for writing it, rooted in his own childhood passion for model boat building. Yates emphasizes the fundamental concepts needed in boat construction, such as buoyancy and the center of gravity, before delving into the specifics of building different types of boats. He sets the stage for hands-on learning while sharing useful principles and technical jargon, ensuring readers are equipped with both knowledge and skills to successfully create their own model boats.