L. Francis Herreshoff
Mr Herreshoff hardly needs any introduction to anyone reading these pages. He is one of the grand old men of yacht design. He
introduced the 30-square meter class to the USA and had high expectations for the success of the boats. He realized that the older Universal Rule was becoming passé towards the end of the 20’s, and thought the rating rule based on sail area far better than the International Rule that eventually won the day.
The Square Meter Rule was simple to enforce, assured strong seaworthy designs and encouraged innovation. After experiencing a squall in his 30 Sq. Meter in 1929, Mr. Herreshoff wrote, "The way the little ship went to windward and tacked was a revelation to me compared with what a heavy ‘R’ or ‘6-Metre’ would do under the same conditions."