Hervey Garrett Smith (1896–1979)

Very good reading on knots. Good, useful diagrams and enjoyable writing. I approached it only for the knots and read everything else because he presented it well.

Heavily overlaps "The Marlinspike Sailor". Most readers could probably do with either book. The writing is good and the content useful. It is a trove of nautical knowledge and skills.

“Rope is probably the most remarkable product known to mankind”. So reads the opening sentence of the classic - The Marlinspike Sailor by Hervey Garret Smith. It was first published in 1956 based on a series of articles in Rudder magazine in the 50’s. Hervey Garret Smith was one of the best maritime artists of his day as well as one of the founders and the first director of the Long Island Maritime Museum. What makes the book so amazing is that between his wondering drawings and his show more detailed instructions even a fumble-fingered lubber can turn out some beautiful rope work with a bit of patience. show less