Stephens Bros.: Boat Builders

Shipbuilding, Stockton’s oldest industry, is inextricably linked to the Stephens Brothers. Over one hundred years ago, two young men, brothers Roy and Theodore (“Thod”) Stephens launched their first boat named Dorothy—built in the back yard of their Stockton home—into the Stockton Channel. This event marked an auspicious beginning for this family business known around the world for its integrity and fine craftsmanship.

Stephens Bros.: Boat Builders, on view June 27 through September 29 in the New Gallery, will feature enlarged historic photographs, company advertising, and marine architect’s drawings from the Museum’s archive chronicling the history of the multi-generational boat building company. This exhibit tells the story of a company that gained its reputation on customer service and built a remarkable range of boats and military craft throughout its eighty-five-year history.

Additionally on display will be a model of the Miss 102, a 60-foot yacht originally built by Stephens. This custom built-yacht was designed by Dick Stephens and launched on April 26, 1956. The model was graciously underwritten by Dick and Donna Stephens and after this exhibit will be on display in the museum by the Stephens Bros. 1927 26-foot Runabout in the California Room.

Special Presentation:

Join us on Saturday, July 20th, 1:30 – 3 pm for a presentation about the history of the Stephens Bros. by Tod Ruhstaller, CEO & Curator of History.