Greetings from Golden, BC

[Greenthumbed]

Hello All,
I just thought I’d make an introduction. My name is Chad. I’m a new member to the WCHA as of 2025 and I just registered on these forums today. I am an outdoorsman and canoe fanatic. I have owned a ‘54 Peterborough Huron for about 30 years. It is my most prized possession it has been on many adventures with me most notably 700km of the Yukon River in 1998.
I recently purchased a ‘72 Chestnut Prospector that needed a full restoration which I started this spring. With new stem tops and inwale ends, multiple ribs and several feet of planking later I am happy to say that the canoe now has a new coat of canvas as of this weekend and now ready to move on to filler, paint and varnish!
I must say it has been a very satisfying endeavour. I look forward to having this boat in the water, but must admit that it will be sad when the project is completed.
I should also add that I own a ‘54 Peterborough Lakeside runabout which is a pleasure to look at and fun to have on the water. I wish I had more time for them all

Regards,
Chad Parent

 

[patrick corry]

Welcome and please indulge us with pictures. There are a few Chestnut fans here, myself included. I too have a '56 mahogany runabout, a Barbour Boat Co. Vacationer model & '58 Mercury Mark 55 outboard motor.

 

[Greenthumbed]

 

[patrick corry]

Some say red canoes are faster.... you'll have to let us know! Although this isn't a power boat forum I'll include a pic of my Barbour.

 

[Greenthumbed]

Very nice! Thanks for sharing.
That red Peterborough of mine is fast! It’s a cruiser model with sleek lines. I’m sure the colour helps too.

 

[Pook]

Red canoes- especially Chestnuts are definitely faster!

Welcome to the WCHA- always nice to have another member from north of the 49th Parallel, especially one with such exquisite tastes in canoes...though I must admit that you had me with your 54 foot Peterborough...!
As Patrick noted, there are a number of Chestnut fans here; in addition to the Pal above, I also have a 1970 Prospector and a 1971 Bobs Special...

Again, welcome aboard!
Bruce

 

[Greenthumbed]

Hi Bruce,
That is a beauty of a red canoe.
When I had my Peterborough first restored 30 years ago I was asked what colour I wanted it to be. I told the craftsman I wanted it “Bill Mason Red”. He knew exactly what I was talking about!
I have decided that I will go with the original grey/green Chestnut Prospector colour for this Chestnut of mine when I get to that stage in a week or so from now.

Chad