June, 1956

The 1956 National Championship Series will be held August 20-24 at Mentor Harbor Yachting Club in Ohio. Details include the race schedule, details about entries, and appointment of the National Race Committee. Sandy Douglass will chair the Chartering Committee and expects 45-50 boats based on past experience.

A reprint of the 1952 Bagpipe article on the BLAC JAC story, featuring reminiscences from its first owner Cecil Laird about the boat's history during the 1940s. The boat was built in 1946 and represents an interesting piece of early Thistle class history.

A historical column featuring reminiscences about specific Thistles and their owners. The piece discusses Jim Henricksen's experiences with the class and mentions various boats and sailors who have contributed to its history.

A historical retrospective discussing the early years of Thistle sailing, including anecdotes about boats and sailors, discussions of sailing traditions, and the evolution of the class from its origins through the 1950s.

A collection of classified advertisements and marketplace listings for Thistles and related equipment, including boats for sale and wanted advertisements.

An article by Chief Measurer George A. Devlin outlining the specific requirements and tolerances for boat measurements adopted at the Summer 1956 meeting of the TCA. Details compliance standards for spinnakers, jibs, mainsails, centerboards, and rudders.

A technical column by Chief Measurer George A. Devlin discussing boom vangs, rigging improvements, and answers to sailors' questions about equipment and modifications. Includes discussion of winchs, rope systems, and stainless steel components.

A section featuring reader letters addressing various topics including the Race of Champions held in Hawaii, discussions of international competition, and the One-Of-A-Kind race organization.

An appeal for assistance from Ray Feilbush, Chairman of the TCA National Publicity Committee, seeking a photogenic blonde woman to match in a luffing match for a publicity photo opportunity, demonstrating Thistle sailing appeal.

Continuation of the editor's discussion covering plastic Thistle hull construction debate, the role of Douglass & McLeod Inc., and various perspectives on experimental designs and fiberglass boat building.

A section reporting on fleet activities and regatta results from various Thistle fleets around the country, including reports on races at Memphis, Fort Loudon, and other locations.

Information and details about the Heather Bowl Regatta scheduled for June 23-24 at Edgewater Park, N.J., highlighting registration details and social activities planned during the three-race series.

A comprehensive listing of Thistle regattas and sailing events scheduled throughout the summer and fall of 1956, from June through November across various locations and districts.

The Treasurer's financial report for the Thistle Class Association for the period ending June 13, 1956, including receipts, disbursements, and account balances.