Philip Rhodes

Who was Philip Rhodes?

Philip Leonard Rhodes was a prolific naval architect of extraordinary range. He was particularly known for the wholesome good looks and sailing qualities of his yacht designs. He designed vessels from 123' motor-sailors to 7' dinghies, from hydrofoil racers to giant motor yachts. His work also included commercial and military vessels such as minesweepers and police boats. His clients ranged from Rockefellers to Sears & Roebuck. His 12 Meter class Weatherly won the America's Cup in 1962.

Rhodes was born in 1895 in Thurman, Ohio. He attended MIT, graduating in 1918 in naval architecture and marine engineering. He worked for the US Army Corp of Engineers during World War I. After the war he began work as a shipfitter in Lorain, Ohio. He later moved to New York where he opened a small office as a marine architect.

Philip Rhodes joined the design firm of Cox & Stevens in 1934. He became head naval architect for the firm after the death of lead designer Bruno Tornroth in 1935. In 1946 the firm of Philip L. Rhodes succeeded Cox & Stevens Inc. It closed in 1974, following Rhodes's death.