Serial number location and maker

[Gary H 57]

Hello all, new guy here. I have worked on many Thompson wooden boats and have always found the maker numbers but this canoe is giving me trouble.

It is my sons and he was gifted to him by his grandad. He asked if I could work some old boat magic on it.

I have checked pasts posted here for maker information but coming up short.

Any information is welcome.
Thank, you
Gary
Waupaca, Wis.

 

[Dave Osborn]

Thompson canoes rarely had serial numbers.
I’ve heard that some do. I’ve restored dozens and never seen one. I’m pretty sure the Thompson canoes that I’ve restored were built in the Peshtigo plant. It’s possible that canoes coming from the Cortland plant had some numbers….not sure.
If you are from Waukesha, likely this one is a Peshtigo build.
I believe you have a “Low End” Ranger Model. Likely a camp canoe or was used by Boy Scouts. Originally had no seats. Just thwarts.

 

[Gary H 57]

Thanks Dave. I should have mentioned it is 15' 6" long X 34 1/2" wide with fiberglass outside if that helps.

 

[Dave Osborn]

The glass was mostly likely added at some point point. At one time, glass was going to save all wooden watercraft, but sadly it didn’t. Canvas was the original covering on the hull. There are pros and cons about glass, but most folks remove it and go back to canvas. You can research this forum about it. There has been lots of discussion in the last decade about it.
Two things about canvas that stand out for me.
You can’t make a proper repair to the hull with glass on it.
The canvas allows the ribs, planks, and canvas to move independently under wet and dry cycles. Glass locks this “system “ down.
Good luck on your project.
We are here for ya!