George Pocock and his brother Dick came to America after finishing apprenticeships building boats and racing sculls on the River Thames in England. While possessing no education beyond age fourteen, George embraced all aspects of collegiate rowing and was instrumental in the foundation of the University of Washington's early rowing years. Considered a master boat-builder, he implemented design innovations which greatly improved his boats' performance over his competitors. Possessing a deep appreciation for the art and beauty of rowing, he continued boat-building for fifty years, providing shells for most racing colleges in the country and many overseas as well. Pocock Racing Shells continues today and is run by George's son.

This portrait of Pocock was taken by photographer Josef Scaylea (1913-2004), who worked for 35 years as chief photographer for the Seattle Times, winning over 1000 awards for his photographs highlighting the scenery and people in the Pacific Northwest. He donated a collection of his photographs and photography equipment to MOHAI in 1993.

Handwritten on image: Josef Scaylea.
Handwritten on verso: 1959. Master Craftsman George Pocock, Shell Builder, by Josef Scaylea.