Preserving the History and Art of Adirondack Guide Boats

By Amy Scanlin Slow down. Disconnect. Unplug.  There is art in nature for those willing to take a look – clouds reflecting on a mountain lake, the gentle curve of a polished gunwale, a new day dawning as oars pull through the water, leaving ripples, like fingerprints, fading into the the shoreline. The breath slows…

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The Last Empress, A Cheetek Takes Center Stage for Generations of Family Fun

By Neil Hoehle, Heartland Chapter Growing up in the tiny town of Wapello, Iowa, with the Mississippi River at our doorstep, I started boating with my parents before I could walk. My parents owned a variety of boats through the late 1950’s and early 60’s, but always seemed to be searching for that one boat…

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Uncovering the Mysteries of the “Gray Hull”

Lessons Learned from the Restoration of Inlet Belle By Ian Devlin, Western Canadian Antique and Classic Boat Society Oftentimes retirement continues to be as big a learning opportunity as the working years. This has certainly been true in my case, particularly since taking on and restoring a “gray hull.” Inlet Belle’s hull was stored out…

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Marine Career Exploration Event SURGING Into Detroit July 31, 2024

This first-of-its-kind event provides learning opportunities, hands-on activities, and a boating experience on the Detroit River for students and young adults.  A first of its kind collaboration between educational and youth organizations, marine companies, and state leaders is set to make waves in Detroit on July 31, 2024 in an effort to expand access to…

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Restoring Oscar Lay’s Lyman

In the heart of Erie County, a historic gem is being meticulously restored to its former glory. Built by the renowned Lyman Boat Works, this pre-war 24-foot Lyman Custom Runabout with an all-weather hardtop holds a special place in maritime history. Constructed between 1937-1940, only three of these hand-built beauties remain in existence today. One…

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