New Member, Old Canoe Identification/Recommendations

[Sven Yohnson]

I recently aquired an old canvas on wood canoe that I would like help in identifying the manufacturer and approximate age of.
The canoe had been owned by a gentleman from Anoka, MN since the early 1950's. The paperwork I received at time of purchase lists it as a 1950 Old Town, which I do not believe it is, due to deck design, and as there are no tags, or serial number common to Old Town models. It is 16' OL x 36"W with a very pronounced 3"+ rocker (definately a river boat). The canvas appears to be original, or a very old recover, with original paint (sky blue), and a hand painted bow logo of a Canadian Goose in flight over a full moon (see attached photos).
In addition to identification, I am looking for recommendations on how, and what to use as a clear protective hull coating. I wish to waterproof the boat for occassional use, while maintaining its original patina. I am planning to coat he interior, decks, gunwhales, thwarts, and seats with a 50/50 mixture of linseed oil, and mineral spirits (unless there are better options available).
I think that's enough to start with. I welcome all constuctive, and positive replies.
Thank You in advance,
Sven

 

[John Sand]

It's beautiful!

 

[Dan Miller]

Better photos of the details (decks, stems, thwarts) will help make identification more possible.

Dan

 

[MGC]

Sven, your canoe is probably a Kennebec. You could provide a serial number from the stems to confirm this. You might find an outline from a rectangular tag on one of the decks.
With respect to what it needs. It is routine maintenance to varnish the wood. The blend of mineral spirits and linseed oil is one you might apply to the outside of the hull while it is being re-canvassed. When I blend that mixture I also add a bit of turpentine to it and apply it warm.
Varnishing the boat is generally done as needed. A good quality marine spar varnish should be applied after careful sanding. You should (if you sand judiciously) be able to retain much of the patina.
The canvas (if it is old) may need replacement. You should try it in water and find out. It will let you know in a hurry.
Unless a canoe is very rare and original, it is not the norm to leave old varnish or canvas in place. To keep a canoe useable, these require regular replacement/maintenance.
If your plan is to display the canoe, then yes, you might leave the canvas and oil over the varnish.
Assuming that it is a Kennebec, it's a good canoe. I have enjoyed the ones I have owned.

 

[Sven Yohnson]

John; Thank You for your compliment. I agree; it's beautiful (as it is).
Dan; I will follow up with additional photos within the next couple of days.
MGC; It will be displayed in our cabin it's current condition (warts and all), with occassional short paddles on our small lake, which is why I'm asking for recomendations for a clear, pliable, UV stable coating to seal the hull. Although I appreciate a well restored canoe, I also appreciate the patina of an original vintage one.
Thank You all for your replies!
Sven