I was raised in Colorado but had the good fortune to visit relatives in New England while growing up. I fell in love with sailing during these visits. On a trip east I bought this "Boating Almanac" during my High School days. I was smitten by the boat on the cover. I vowed that someday I would have a B-40. My wife and I finally were able to get one four years ago. She was built in 1969 and is the 85th hull made. We are her third keepers. The first owners had her 15 years, the second owner had her for 24 years. The man from whom we bought her was really torn up that her had to sell. She had just become to big for he and his wife to sail at 89 years old. The boat has exceeded all of my expectations. Most agree that they are beautiful to look at but when I have people aboard who have only experienced more modern boats the look on their faces is pretty universal when they step below. "Where is the rest of the cabin?" I have made more than a few converts by taking them out on days where conditions were a bit too sporty for their modern family cruisers. Once they feel her lean into the sea and shrug off waves that would have made for a very uncomfortable ride on their boats they begin to get it. The refit will be never ending, but she is providing lots of pleasure.