Info Request-serial no. 964

[Martin Smith]

I was searching for any information you could provide to me on a wooden sailing canoe I own. I was searching for information on the canoe when I came across a picture of a model of an Old Town sailing canoe on the WCHA web site that looked identical to mine. The serial number is 964 and it is 16 ft long. It has the original rigging, streamers, and bronze hardware. I also have the original sail, believed to be egyptian cloth, in a vacuum-sealed bag. I was hoping some one could provide information on the canoe's history, value, and possibly authenticate it. I can get pictures when needed, but I would really appreciate any info anyone can give me.

Thanks for your help,
Martin Smith

 

[Benson Gray]

I afraid that the existing builder's records will not be able to help identify your canoe number 942 very much. The Kennebec records show two boats with this serial number but no 16 foot long canoes. My guess is that it is probably from a Charles River builder. Bring it to the Assembly next summer and you will probably get lots of opinions.

You may be able to identify yours from other characteristics described at http://www.dragonflycanoe.com/id/ in the Wood Canoe Identification Guide. It would also be helpful if you could post some pictures here along with the actual dimensions and other details.

There could be some additional serial number digits that are hidden. You may want to try a flashlight at a very low angle to emphasize the shadows or a crayon with paper like a grave stone rubbing. More information is available at http://forums.wcha.org/showthread.php?t=791 about how to find a serial number.

The message at http://forums.wcha.org/showthread.php?t=57 has a good summary of how to value an old canoe. Feel free to reply here if you find any more digits or have other questions.

Benson

Benson