Serial number search 104979

[Joelwcharles]

Hi,

New sustaining member here. I have an old town canoe which I restored with my dad when I was 12 years old. It needs some more work and I’m hoping to find out the original materials used in its construction so I can update the restoration to be more reflective of its original build. Serial number is 104979. A few inches after that there is a ‘16’. I would appreciate any help you can provide. Thank you.

 

[Benson Gray]

Welcome and congratulations, the Old Town with serial number 104979 is a 16 foot long, CS (Common Sense or middle) grade, HW (heavy water) model with red Western cedar planking, open spruce gunwales, a keel, outside stems, and sponsons. It was built between February and July, 1930. The original exterior paint color was similar to the one shown at http://www.wcha.org/catalogs/old-town/designs/design34.gif which was known as design number 34. It shipped on July, 5th, 1930 to Woodruff, Wisconsin. A scan showing this build record can be found below.

This scan and several hundred thousand others were created with substantial grants from the Wooden Canoe Heritage Association (WCHA) and others. A description of the project to preserve these records is available at http://www.wcha.org/ot_records/ if you want more details. Your new membership to the WCHA is much appreciated.

It is also possible that you could have another number or manufacturer if this description doesn't match the canoe. The specifications at https://www.wcha.org/catalogs/old-town/specific.gif may help you with the woods. Canoes with a family connection are always extra special. Feel free to reply here if you have any other questions. Good luck with the restoration update,

Benson

 

[Dave Osborn]

Joe,
If you and the canoe are still in the northwoods and you need some help with your restoration, contact me. I have some materials and 24 years of restoration experience. Questions answered are free!
I live between Minocqua and Manitowish Waters.

 

[Joelwcharles]

Thanks Dave, I’m down in the driftless area. Depending on my ability to access wood, and what I find when I get the canvas off, I may be reaching out. Good to know you’re up there. It’s a beautiful area. Sounds like my canoe was originally delivered near you.

 

[Joelwcharles]

thanks benson,

Do you have a thread you recommend where I could learn which woods the other components were likely made of? I see they don’t list the decks or thwarts on this document. I see in a lot of replies you’ve made to other folks that the decks were often ash. I appreciate your help!

 

[Benson Gray]

Do you have a thread you recommend where I could learn which woods the other components were likely made of?

The decks, seats, and thwarts were commonly made from the same hardwood. Ash, maple, birch, and oak were frequently used. Pictures may help.

Benson