History of my canoe

[John Grage]

I’m looking for more information on a canoe in my possession. The story behind it is that it is a 1913, 17’. Originally purchased by Lake Harriet boating club in Minneapolis. The number stamped in it is 25214 17. It is in excellent condition considering it may be over 100 years old. I really have no use for it but it would sure look good in the proper setting, lodge, cabin, restaurant, etc. the value is beyond my scope.

 

[Michael Grace]

Hi John. Photos would really help. The build information can be obtained for this number likely from several companies including Old Town, Carleton and Kennebec. Photos will help determine who the builder was and therefore hopefully give you accurate historical information.

 

[Benson Gray]

I agree with Michael that some pictures would help, especially showing the serial numbers and surrounding areas from each end. The Old Town canoe with serial number 25214 is 16 feet long so that isn't a good match. The one with number 125214 is a 15 foot long rowboat so that is no better. Kennebec and Carleton didn't use this serial number. The first link below may help if the numbers are hard to read. The second link may help you with the value question. Good luck,

Benson

Thread 'How do I find a serial number on an old wooden canoe or boat?'

Oct 2, 2005

Many old wooden canoes and boats have a serial number on both inside stems and a decal or tag with the manufacturer's logo on the bow deck. The number is usually stamped on the top of the lower part of the stems. The inside stems are the long curved pieces of wood that form the ends of the canoe. You want to look on the part that extends out from under the decks on the bottom of the floor inside the hull. The serial numbers are stamped in each end of the canoe so check both if a single digit is not clear. These numbers in the stern of boats are occasionally on the edge of the center...

• Benson Gray
• Replies: 2
• Forum: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Thread 'How much is my old wooden canoe worth?'

Nov 14, 2004

How much is my old canoe worth?

One of the most common questions that gets sent to the WCHA webmasters is "how much is my old canoe worth?" Tim Hewitt's responses over the years have included the following comments:

Any wooden or wood/canvas canoe in usable condition is worth $1000 - $1500. A canoe that is documentable will go on the high end, one that is particularly rare will bring more, up to $3000 for a wood canvas canoe, and as high as $5000 for an all-wood canoe. These high end canoes must be in showroom condition and you must have evidence or documentation of their age and...

• Benson Gray
• Replies: 5
• Forum: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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