Perhaps some photos of my 6' J R Robertson 'display sample' will assist in the discussion here. This piece is the only (so far) known example of a J R Robertson sample canoe. It is believed to have been made in 1910 (it came accompanied by a catalogue of that year), and contains the serial # 1038 6 (with the first two digits, "10", believed to represent its year of manufacture, and the last digit, "6", its length. It has "W" deck cutouts, gunnel caps and wide seats, one of which bears a wavy makers brand. It is also accompanied by 4 sample paddles. As for Robertson's historical involvement in canoe-making, it would seem from his obituary notice (provided by Benson, above), that he began making boats and canoes in Lawrence, MA, in the late 1870's. He was known to be friendly with the Stephensons, of Peterborough, ON, and was instrumental in luring away George Stephenson, son of old John S, from his employment at Ontario Canoe Co. in 1885. Robertson grew up in Canton, NY, and knew J H Rushton, to whom he allegedly later introduced George Stephenson after George left OCC. Robertson also introduced George to H V Partelow, of Auburndale, MA, where George was employed for a couple of years, and also likely worked for Robertson., who took over Partelow's works. The photos would suggest that "W" decks, wide seats, substantial gunnel caps nailed in place, were features used by Robertson at least as early 1910.