George Monsell

Induction Year: 1995

Category: Boating and Nautical

Location: Greenport

George Hiram Monsell is a lifelong resident of Greenport. He received his training in sailing by transporting Teddy Roosevelt’s troops to Cuba, giving him the experience to become a master in yacht racing.

Harold Vanderbilt appointed Monsell the first professional captain in America’s Cup racing.  He won 3 America’s Cups in 1930, 1934 and 1937. Captain Monsell is recognized as one of the most outstanding masters in yacht racing. He earned fame as the skipper of yachts such as the “Enterprise”, “Rainbow”, and “Ranger”. These three ships were all victorious in international racing for America’s Cup.

Monsell later was in charge of organizing and training crews who would care for the ships. His motto that he carried on his ship was “try to find in your shipmate that which you hope he may find in you”.

He was very active in various organizations on the East End.  These included membership in East End Surf, Fishing Club in Riverhead, Shelter Island Yacht Club, Sequan Club of Peconic, Mattituck Gun Club, Cutchogue Men’s Club, Riverhead Men’s Club, Public Health Association, County Board of Health, Peconic Lodge 3496, and Custer Institute.

Monsell passed away in 1951.