The Comet sailboat, introduced in 1932, was designed by C. Lownes Johnson. Known initially as the Crab and the Junior Star, the boat resembles that of a Star sailboat reduced to a 16-foot centerboard sloop.  The Comet went on to become one of the most popular racing classes in American history, with 4100 hulls having been produced by 1984. The Skaneateles Boats Company was one of the primary builders of wooden Comets, having turned out nearly 1000 of these sailboats. Skaneateles Comets were noted for their double planked bottoms which greatly reduced leakage.

The boat shown here was built by Skaneateles in 1946, and has been placed on long term loan with the Museum by her owner following an extensive restoration.