John Griffiths (shipowner)

John Griffiths (1821 – 1893) was a Welsh-born American shipbuilder and shipowner, renowned for his innovative designs and construction techniques in wooden sailing vessels, particularly clipper ships.

Griffiths was born in Anglesey, Wales, and immigrated to the United States in his youth. He began his career as a shipwright, quickly gaining expertise in naval architecture. He established his own shipyard in New York City and became a leading figure in the burgeoning American shipbuilding industry of the mid-19th century.

Griffiths is best known for his clipper ships, built for speed and efficiency to capitalize on the lucrative China trade and the California Gold Rush. He pioneered several key design innovations, including the "clipper bow," a sharper, more raked bow that improved speed and reduced drag. He also experimented with different hull shapes and sail plans, contributing significantly to the evolution of clipper ship design.

While known for his shipbuilding, Griffiths also held ownership shares in many of the vessels he built, making him a significant shipowner as well. He was actively involved in the commercial operation of his ships.

He published extensively on naval architecture, including the influential book "Treatise on Marine and Naval Architecture" (1850), which outlined his theories and designs. This book made his insights available to a broader audience and influenced shipbuilding practices internationally.

Griffiths' contributions were not without controversy. His sharp bow designs, though initially successful, were sometimes criticized for seaworthiness in heavy seas. Nevertheless, his impact on the development of fast sailing ships is undeniable. He died in Brooklyn, New York, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most innovative and influential shipbuilders of his era.