Hansen Boat

The Hansen family immigrated from Norway in the late 19th century. From the time they arrived in America, the seven brothers built boats for themselves to fish on in the waters of the Puget Sound. Harold Hansen had a particular affinity and talent for designing and constructing the vessels and, after years of building the boats for the family, he decided to put those talents into service for fishermen outside of the family. He launched Harold Hansen Boat Company in 1927... the official beginning of what is now Hansen Boat Company. The company was originally located in Ballard, Washington near Fisherman's Terminal and later would move to another location on the north side of the Ship Canal. The locations in Ballard provided good access to the Puget Sound and a strong supply of talented shipwrights and woodworkers. Harold's two sons, Don and Dick, joined him in running the business and constructing high quality commercial fishing boats known for their reliable construction, great seaworthiness, and appealing lines. In addition to Don and Dick, many of Harold's brothers and nephews became part of the crew over the years, as well as many loyal employees who became part of the family as they labored together. In 1972, the company relocated to a piece of land along Steamboat Slough in Everett, Washington. The company had transitioned from building wood vessels to constucting hulls made out of steel.