Not just “America’s Dairyland”
Published on August 31st, 2026
There are sailing hubs in the United States which have deeper roots in the sport. San Diego (CA) and Newport (RI) come to mind, each involved in the early years of yacht design and build, and then hosting the America’s Cup. But what about Wisconsin?
The Wisconsin Sailing and Maritime Hall of Fame hopes to highlight achievement that occurred in middle America with the inaugural class induction on September 19, 2026.
This landmark event recognizes the individuals, organizations, and innovations that have shaped Wisconsin’s extraordinary legacy on the water and celebrates the state’s longstanding influence on sailing, maritime commerce, naval architecture, and marine manufacturing.
Companies such as Burger Boat Company, Mercury Marine, Palmer Johnson, Melges Boat Works, and Harken have established Wisconsin as an internationally respected center of maritime innovation and craftsmanship.
Inaugural Hall of Fame Class:
Recognized for Sailing:
Peter Barrett
William Bentsen
Dean Cady
Bill Mattison
Harry “Buddy” Melges Jr.
Jane Pegel
Bill Schanen
John Strassman
Recognized for Marine Industry
Peter and Olaf Harken, and Art Mitchell – Co-founded Harken yachting equipment
William R. Kahlenberg – Engineer and inventor
Mike Kelsey – Palmer Johnson
Carl Kiekhafer – Founder of Mercury Marine
Bill Parsons – Palmer Johnson
Don O’Keefe – Yacht design
Ellsworth Peterson – Sailmaker, yacht designer, and marine innovator
Bill Prince – Yacht design and marine industry innovator
Edward ‘Shuff’ Willman – Palmer Johnson
