The New International Encyclopædia/Burgess, Edward

BURGESS, Edward (1848-91). An American yacht-designer, born in West Sandwich, Mass. He was educated at Harvard, graduating in 1871, and became secretary of the Boston Society of Natural History, in which capacity he edited the publications of the society. In 1879 he became instructor in entomology' at Haevard, remaining until 1883. Financial reverses caused him to turn his attention to naval architecture, especially as to yachts. From his designs the Puritan was built, which proved the best American yacht, and easily defeated the Genesta (English) in the races for the America's cup in 1885. In 1886 his Mai/flower easily led in the race with the English Galatea. In 1888 his fishing schooner Carrie E. Phillips distanced four competitors in the Fishermen's race held in Boston Harbor. His Volunteer won the America's cup against the Thistle, the special product of British genius, in the international races of 1887. His other yachts included the Mariquita, Minerva, and Gossoon, all of them remarkably swift sailing craft.