Posted 12 years ago
bushrat
(39 items)
68" long, in heavily crackled but truly wonderful original paint typical of early 1920's style. Exceedingly rare, one of only 60 made by Kennebec for display advertising purposes between 1916-26. Such models were often given by manufacturers to large retail outlets to be hung or mounted as display pieces; occasionally they were sold to private customers. This one turned up recently in a small country auction near the Catskills, NY state. Thanks to the very nice folks who allowed me to bring it home. The first photo shows the model "as found"; the second, third and fourth show it after some light cleaning and professional preservation/restoration.
Thanks to all who have loved and appreciated this old gal; she's a truly wonderful example from the 'roaring 20's'.
i grew up paddling and rowing and so did everyone in my family. our land stretches for over a mile along the Connecticut river, and we've owned old town and carleton canoes, as well as many different kayaks and and even alden racing shells. we even visited the factories where many of these were built when i was growing up. we always had a place on a lake where we would row and paddle all summer too. i just got back from mexico where we have a place and my uncle started a rowing club there and already has over 40 kayaks in it. i spent a lot of my time on the water there too. i LOVE your collections! brings back so many memories for me.
Thank you so much for the very kind comments. I'm always delighted when friends write to say how much they enjoy seeing the items in my sample collection (www.antiquemodelcanoes.com). If you are in the area of Paul Smiths, NY, (close to Saranac Lake, in the Adirondacks) on July 15 2016, between 9:00 am and noon, the Wooden Canoe Heritage Association will be hosting a large exhibit of historic factory display models ("salesman's samples") during its 'Annual Assembly'. This event promises to be one of the largest and finest gatherings of antique sample models ever assembled at one time and place. Plenty of older, full-size watercraft as well. Everyone welcome; you don't have to be a member to come and see. If you love old boats, you may wish to join; lots of wonderful folks to share enjoyment with. And, for any who may just have a sample of their own - please bring it to the exhibit where we would be delighted to include it, perhaps even tell you more about it, should you have any questions. I will be helping to coordinate the program. Cheers, Roger.
It has taken a long time, 2022, but I have finally gotten around to writing my manuscript on early N. American "display" sample canoes. They really deserve to be described as display pieces because they were never widely handed out to sales personnel. Only about 300 in total were ever made before WWII by all the canoe makers added together. Old Town made the most (about 130), Kennebec the second largest (60). Many others made none, or only a handful. Just one sample by Rushton is known, and one by J R Robertson. Canadian factories likely made less than 2 dozen, altogether. So, they're very rare and, consequently, pretty expensive to buy. Don't get fooled by cheap fakes. Look for my book or articles I have written; it will show you the real thing, with lots of great photos, as well.