The name « schooner » first appeared in eastern North America in the early 1700s and it is related to Scots word meaning to skip over water, or to skip stones.

The schooner rig was used in vessels with a wide range of purposes. On a fast hull, good ability to windward was useful for packet boats, built for the fast conveyance of passengers and goods. Fruit schooners were noted for their quick passages, taking their perishable cargoes on routes such as the Azores to Britain. And some pilot boats adopted the rig. The fishing vessels that worked the Grand Banks of Newfoundland were schooners, and held in high regard as an outstanding development of the type. In merchant use, the ease of handling in confined waters and smaller crew requirements made schooners a common rig, especially in the 19th century.

Inspired by Grand banks fishing schooners John Alden designed over 1,000 boats, including the 63.5′ schooner When and If for General Patton.

Built in 1983, the staysail schooner Etesian is one John Alden’s projects and now this classic lady needs a complete refit to sail again.