New to me, 16 foot Chestnut canoe.

[fernieite]

Hi all,

I just joined the forum to try to get some information on a 16 foot Chestnut that I just bought. Does anyone know what model this would be, or the approximate year of manufacturing?

There are no logos remaining since the boat was restored about 24 years ago. However, I have a copy of the work invoice, and the restorer, Roger Foster (Carlisle Canoes) calls the boat a 16' Chestnut.

Here's the work he did in June of 2000: "General repairs to 16 ft Chestnut canoe, including new inwales, new outwales, 9 ribs, 43 feet planking, new keel and decks, canvas."

 

[fernieite]

Here are the measurements I just took:

15' 10" length, end to end.
35 1/4" beam at centre thwart.
13 3/4" deep from top of rib to top of gunwales. (Using a broom handle for a straight edge at centre thwart)
1 1/2" ribs (3/8" thick) 1 1/2" space in between.
3" planks.
Approximately 75 lbs.

Let me know if you'd like anymore measurements or photos.

Thanks.

 

[fernieite]

It also has a serial or model number, but it's not very legible at this point. Maybe some day I'll clean it up, or strip the varnish off in order to read the numbers properly. (Sorry, a couple of the photos are upside-down!)

 

[Benson Gray]

Welcome, there aren't any know serial number records for the Canadian manufacturers so the dimensions may be your best hope for an identification. The details at https://woodencanoemuseum.org/builder-history/chestnut-canoe-company may help. There are many here who know much more about Chestnut canoes than me. Good luck,

Benson