There's no denying that these classic wooden boats turn heads on the water and even on the road! Every boater would love to have one of these fancy boats, but you really have to be rich to be able to own and maintain one right?
Wrong!!
In fact, its very wrong. Classic boat owners come from all walks of life and all ranges of income. From the president of the company to the plumber, (the plumber being the rich guy!) everyone can afford to enjoy the beauty and fun of these classic watercraft.
It was the growing middle class that bought the most boats back in the 1920S when pleasure boating became wildly popular in America and they're still popular with American families today. Tubing, skiing, cruising or fishing, classic boats are well suited for anything families do on the water. Hundreds of models were designed for the boating market even in the early days of the industry. Some were designed with the rich in mind, but most were made for the average American.
Compare the cost of owning a classic boat to a contemporary model and you'll see they're just as affordable today as they have ever been!
Family Fun
above, 1935 and below, 2006
Our customer Steve is CEO of his own company, but he works on his wooden boat right here in our shop every chance he can get!
This work is very satisfying and is a stress reliever for Steve. We work side by side with Steve in the shop. Steve gives us business advice and we give him sanding advice!
Take a look at the progress he has made on the 1961 Ski Boat page!
Adam, pictured here with Paul, has been out of school just over a year and he's already restored his own '68 Cheetah!
Adam is a investment broker by day and by night he restored his boat that had been in the family for many years. First the Grandfather and then a cousin. This is a fiberglass classic that Adam added a Mahogany plank surround to the deck. He also did some structural repairs, rebuilt the engine and painted the hull.
Check out the page on the 68 Cheetah and see its transformation.
Betty , rescuer of the Chubby-D, pictured with her woodcarvings.
Betty ....
Artist and carver of birds and "found" wood. Betty comes from a long line of artists..... one that painted the fist ever Coca Cola sign!!! Betty and her husband Jim (who sharpens the wood carving tools) rescued the 1954 20' Sportsman from an owner that had a "Spiritual problem". These folks, had the ability to see the finished product when looking at the derelict sportsman that had spent 10 years or more in the weeds near their home .... just like when she looks at a piece of found wood and decides what it is to be once carved. Her son now owns the boat and is having it restored in our shop.
Hugh and Yvonne
Hugh, a senior truck driver for UPS has a 1950 Sportsman that he and his family enjoy. It has a 60 hp 4 cyl motor that pulls the kids on a tube.
They are continually improving the appearance and performance of this boat. Upholstery one year, decks stripped and refinished the next year, a fresh tune up and gauges the next etc.
Hugh used to race a Hydroplane named "Mahogany Rush" and his dad raced "Big Chief". both 135 mph wooden hydroplanes! Yes that's what the ones you remember were made of WOOD! And many still are made of wood today!
It helps to have a wife that is equally interested in sharing this hobby and Yvonne who helps publish a Thoroughbred horse magazine is there every step of the way!
Together these two lead an Antique and Classic Boating Society Chapter - they put on a wonderful boat show!
The kids are active in gymnastics and scouts Hugh, his wife Yvonne and his children come down and stay with us on the Woodies Flagship, the Phoenix every chance they get. (which isn't often enough!)
For all of us at Woodies Restorations, one of the most rewarding parts of this business is getting to know the customer. We'd like to get to know you too!
David, a retired GE executive and long time woodworker purchased this 1965 Thompson and it's trailer for a modest sum and proceeded to bring it to a seaworthy condition. They have scarfed in some new planks on its lapstrake sides and now it is quickly approaching better than new overall condition. David and Janet removed the bottom and replaced most all of the steam bent white oak ribs.
While talking to David, it was clear that he chooses to fill his life with the purpose, challenge, and satisfaction we all find in our projects. Before tackling this project he completed some four grandfather clocks as gifts to his four sons. When asked about his next project he replied......"I haven't built an Airplane yet!" I'd say we all need to stay tuned and check this page occasionally for that project update as Janet didn't protest (too strongly)!!!
By the way.... just take a look at the 4 grandfather clocks he built for his children before he got hooked on boats! When you see the clocks, then see the boat, you ask yourself.... why not an airplane? Of course, I think he needs to do about 3 more boats. Four Children, Four Clocks, Four Boats...... makes sense doesn't it?!?!?!?!?
One of our newest customers, Ryan, pictured below in the #49T builds and entertains as he destroys Demolition Derby Cars! Ryan also restores and Hot Rods classic cars as well. Ryan is the proud owner of a 1965 33 foot Chris Craft Sea Strake and is getting ready to restore her to her former glory. Obviously this motor minded person will be doing all the mechanical work, as we restore and refinish the hull.
Jim from Harsons Island Michigan lives across from the Original Chris Craft Plant in Algonac.. If I'm not mistaken, the plant is behind him in a picture below. Jim has done several fine restorations like the ones pictured below. Is it something in the water that gave you those skills Jim?
One Customer from Kentucky is heavily involved in the charitable organization - Primate Rescue Center. The Center is located in Central Kentucky. Visit their web site to learn more! While there you may choose to make a tax deductible donation to the cause. http://www.primaterescue.org/index.php4
Mark owns the 1956 Custom Build you can find on the Work Currently in Shop page. Mark flies as a captain on a major cargo and package carrier and in his spare time has authored 3 books and many articles. He started flying at age 13 and completed his USAF training in 1976. He was first published in 1978 and twice recognized as the Navy's top aviation safety author!
I typically only read technical information so we can keep these great old boats in the water and operating reliably and rarely read for enjoyment. That being said: I have personally read Danger Within and it is a can't put it down thriller!
