Bolger, Philip C.

Philip C. Bolger (December 3, 1927 – May 24, 2009) was one of the most influential and unconventional naval architects of the 20th century, renowned for his vast output of over 668 boat designs spanning everything from tiny plywood dinghies to massive historical replicas. Based in Gloucester, Massachusetts—his lifelong home—Bolger revolutionized small-boat design by emphasizing simplicity, affordability, and amateur buildability, often using innovative plywood construction techniques that democratized boat ownership. His philosophy rejected traditional aesthetics in favor of functional, "crafty" solutions, earning him a cult following among wooden boat builders and sailors. Bolger's work extended beyond recreation to include sustainable commercial fishing vessels and military craft, and he authored numerous books and articles that continue to inspire DIY enthusiasts.
Bolger's legacy endures through Phil Bolger & Friends Inc., the firm he co-founded with his wife, Susanne Altenburger, in the 1990s, which still offers plans and promotes eco-friendly designs. His death by self-inflicted gunshot was attributed to his desire to maintain control amid declining mental health, influenced by his grandfather's similar experience—a poignant reflection of his unconventional life.