Thompson metal external stem on top of outer wood stem?

bsterling1745

Enthusiastic about Wooden Canoes
I have questions about the use of metal outer stem over outer wood stems. Specifically, metal stem bands on top of the wooden external stems on original Thompson canoes. Were they a standard feature, an optional feature, or never original orders from Thompson?


Recently I’ve seen a circa 1934 and 1943 that did not have the outer metal stem band on top prior to restoration but one I picked up ten years ago did (I still have the broken pieces on a garage wall removed before that canoe’s restoration). The end of the restoration of my early 30's Thompson approaches and any clarity anyone can offer would be appreciated.
 

Dave Osborn

LIFE MEMBER
I live in “Thompson Country” and have restored many Thompson Canoes and boats. As far as I know all Thompson canoes had both outer stems and stem bands. I don’t recall seeing any that left the factory without them.
I have seen Thompson canoes restored without outer stems, for whatever reason. Likely the restorer didn’t want to bend new ones. They end up with a wide, unfinished looking stem.
 
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