Jim has been canoeing since childhood. However, he did not own a wooden canoe until he inherited two canvas-covered canoes from his Dad. One has just recently been restored and the other is in process (year 3?).
The canoe pictured above was clearly made by Chestnut, though there is no hint of a Chestnut decal. It is a narrow (33 1/4" beam), 16' pleasure model with tapered ribs and slat seats. It likely dates from the 1950's and could be an Ajax or Moonlight (first and second grades, respectively). But because of the 7-slat seats (Ajax/Moonlight had cane seats), Jim suspects it might be a Baycrest built for the Hudson's Bay Company. It doesn't have a keel. It is in serviceable condition and nothing has been done to spruce it up.
Jim joined the WCHA in 2013 and has
attended annual Assemblies ever since joining.
The Assembly is a highlight of the year.
Membership in WCHA has ignited a passion for wooden canoes - some might characterize it as an
addiction. There has been a flurry of
purchases of old wooden canoes that has barely slowed in spite of severe boat
storage challenges. The restoration of
these canoes has not kept pace with the acquisitions. Someday, hopefully, Jim will have a fleet of
beautifully restored wooden canoes to pass on to his executor.
This photo showcases a rare James Bay Railway Travelling Canoe. Jim had this canoe built according to the 1911 plans by Henry K. Wicksteed. Wicksteed was a railway engineer (and amateur yacht designer) and he designed this canoe for use in the route planning for the James Bay Railway. It is 14 feet long and designed for one person with a load of camping/surveying gear. You might see similarities to modern day solo whitewater canoes. HKW is a pioneer in this, though mostly unknown. Chestnut would build these canoes as a special order until the fire of 1921. Jim brought this canoe to the 2018 Assembly in Peterborough and reports that it is an absolute delight to paddle.
Located in the outskirts of Kingston, Ontario, Jim is lucky enough to have a home along the St. Lawrence River. Chapter members are welcome to get in contact by email.
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