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 of them was originally owned by Oscar Lay, Vice President of Lay Brothers Fisheries, a pioneer in the world of freshwater fisheries in the era.

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Now under the stewardship of the Maritime Museum of Sandusky, this historic boat is undergoing a period-correct restoration by Classic Marine of Vickery, Ohio. Watch the story unfold in a series of YouTube videos with an introduction narrated by Robert Grimm, an ACBS Member and one of the generous donors who are helping to make this restoration possible.
This is a wonderful story of how wooden boats from Lyman were built and used, and how Sandusky became so important as a center for commercial fresh water fishing. As a person who was raised in Sandusky, and who has owned and restored a couple Lyman boats, I am so impressed with the content and quality of the three videos. Three cheers for a story that we all can enjoy and learn from viewing. I can’t wait to see the rest of the restoration of this historic boat.
Very much appreciated your comments Don. The restoration of this rare pre-war Lyman is putting the Maritime Museum of Sandusky on a unique trajectory as an in-water private charter boat on Sandusky Bay. The public will be able to experience the iconic Lyman brand that dominated recreational boating for nearly a century. The Museum plans to showcase how Lay Brothers Fisheries helped keep Lyman afloat during the Great Depression. And what an ambassador for the City of Sandusky and its Great Lakes maritime history of boat building. Stay tuned!