The Shape of Ships

McDowell, W: 1950 Hutchinson London, hardcover, 232 pages, illustrated. The Shape of Ships by William McDowell traces the development of seagoing vessels from the earliest primitive craft to the modern ship, explaining how changing demands of trade, war, and technology influenced hull form and rig. The author combines clear text with his own technical illustrations to show how design decisions affected seaworthiness, speed, and function over time. In good condition