Hello,
This large wooden model canoe is one of the items I chose from my dad's estate and would love some help identifying its maker, age, and possible origin.
It measures approximately 41" long × 9" wide × 3" high.
The canoe appears to be quite carefully constructed, with a dark wooden planked/strip-built hull, numerous individually fitted light-colored ribs, contrasting wood gunwales and decks, metal fasteners, and a rope-laced center section.
Most interestingly, “WBC 95” (or possibly similar lettering) is handwritten on at least two of the interior ribs. I am wondering whether this could be a builder's mark/date, possibly 1995, or whether anyone recognizes it as belonging to a particular maker or workshop.
There are also two small drilled holes through the bottom of the hull near the center. I wondered whether these might indicate that the canoe was originally attached to a display stand, although I do not have the stand.
I have not found a manufacturer's label, decal, plaque, or other identification.
I would particularly appreciate any thoughts about:
• whether this appears artisan-made or commercially produced
• approximate age
• whether “WC 95” is recognizable
• the type of construction represented
• whether the two bottom holes were likely for a display stand
• whether this resembles models from any known canoe maker
I don't want to describe it as a salesman sample or attribute it to a particular manufacturer without evidence, so any guidance would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you!
Jennifer
This large wooden model canoe is one of the items I chose from my dad's estate and would love some help identifying its maker, age, and possible origin.
It measures approximately 41" long × 9" wide × 3" high.
The canoe appears to be quite carefully constructed, with a dark wooden planked/strip-built hull, numerous individually fitted light-colored ribs, contrasting wood gunwales and decks, metal fasteners, and a rope-laced center section.
Most interestingly, “WBC 95” (or possibly similar lettering) is handwritten on at least two of the interior ribs. I am wondering whether this could be a builder's mark/date, possibly 1995, or whether anyone recognizes it as belonging to a particular maker or workshop.
There are also two small drilled holes through the bottom of the hull near the center. I wondered whether these might indicate that the canoe was originally attached to a display stand, although I do not have the stand.
I have not found a manufacturer's label, decal, plaque, or other identification.
I would particularly appreciate any thoughts about:
• whether this appears artisan-made or commercially produced
• approximate age
• whether “WC 95” is recognizable
• the type of construction represented
• whether the two bottom holes were likely for a display stand
• whether this resembles models from any known canoe maker
I don't want to describe it as a salesman sample or attribute it to a particular manufacturer without evidence, so any guidance would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you!
Jennifer
