Founded in 1896 by Wilson M. Vinyard, the Vinyard Shipbuilding Company was the first Milford shipyard to build motorized vessels. The shipyard built numerous ships for the government including Navy subchasers and Coast Guard patrol boats. In 1927, the company began manufacturing world class yachts. Construction of new vessels ceased in 1951 and the yard closed following the death of Vinyard’s son, Wilson (Sonny) Vinyard in 1973. During its existence, the company built more than 150 vessels. The yard fell into disrepair before being purchased in 1996 and restored by J. Sudler and Joan W. Lofland.
Installed in 2016.
The Honorable F. Gary Simpson, Delaware State Senate
The Honorable Harvey R. Kenton, Delaware House of Representatives
10 Columbia Street, Milford, DE 19963
Related Topics: Historical Markers, Milford, Shipbuilding, ships, Sussex County, United State Navy, United States Coast Guard, Vinyard, Vinyard Shipbuilding Company, Wilson M. Vinyard