Book excerpt: Celebrate all that is quintessentially American about being on the water in the world’s most beloved boat. Since 1874, Chris-Craft has built boats of immense beauty that evoke an emotion and passion in all who see them. The varnished mahogany runabouts of yesteryear, and their modern sister-ships of today, all share the same design ethos, gorgeous lines, high quality, and style. The name alone conjures up images of classic wooden boats, waving flags, and unforgettable memories made on the waves. Immortalized on the big screen in such movies as On Golden Pond and Mission Impossible, the aura and romance of Chris-Craft shines through in this book featuring more than 200 boats—from never-before-published archival images to gorgeous color photos of collector and new boats—as well as plans and ephemera from Chris-Craft’s own collection. A thoroughly researched and informative narrative brings the captivating 140-year story to life. This is the ideal gift for boaters, as well as the perfect book for any owner of a vacation home or lake house—or those who aspire toward this American dream.