RacineWis Chippewa model
Here are three examples of the Chippewa model-- a 15, a 16, and an 18 footer (this model also came in 17 feet). These canoes appear to date from the 1920s. Our canoes (the 16 and 18) were purchased from a property that was built in the early 1920s.
The 15 footer was owned at the time of these pictures by WCHA member Craig Kitchen, whose smiling face is seen paddling it on one of our U.P. Chapter Adventures. This canoe is in original condition-- original canvas and beautiful mellowed interior. We know it hasn't been re-canvassed because there are rivets in the gunwales, as seen in the shot down the side of the canoe in the third picture.
Serial numbers on these canoes consist of four digits with length below, appearing on the rib just beyond the bow seat.
Pictures:
Single-petal deck with decal (on 18 footer)
Craig paddles his 15 footer on Harlow Lake
15 foot Chippewa in original condition at Dome Show, Marquette, MI
Decal Close-Up (15 footer)
Loading the 15 foot Chippewa
Deck of 16 foot Chippewa
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