-----PLEASE NOTE:  we highly reccomend your reading all the following to gain full insight into the merits of this item-----

After much research, the majority of evidence shows our beautifully restored and sheltered canoe is an Old Town Charles River 17 feet model with serial number 19039 whose production was begun October 1911 and shipped to Kennedy Bros. Co. of St. Paul, Minnesota on March 5, 1912.

Our photo shows copy of the original 3/5/12 dated receipt with manufacturing specdifications of wood species and finishing materials and shipping info 

 Wood Canoe Heritage Association (WCHA) is a wonderful historical resource and preserves records and data on a vast collection of wood canoes built in early years; membership is available online 

In communctions with WCHA, the foregoing info applies as "the most likely scenario" for our canoe even though it is believed to have undergone extensive repairs at some point in which modifications were made in the deck shape, seat caning techinique and other details; WCHA stated that the untapaered ribs are characteristic of Charles River models from this period.  Other potential makers for our canoe have been considered, but the bulk of evidence favors Old Town due to ita high serial number which is not normally found in use by other compnies.  In addition, the same serial number was used by Carleton and Kennebec but only on shorter length canoes.

 Condition of our overall tip to tip 17.5 foot canoe is wonderful.  During its 113 years, it appears to have experienced great care along with necessary maintenance.  We know the owners before us were from Wisconsin and are probably the source of the present painting design.  During our 33 year ownership, all storage has been indoors.  The last time we had it on water, we accumulated about a quart of water in an hour of paddling.  Response of this canoe is exciting, easy to manuver, having truly the response only a wood canoe provides.  Based on personal experiences with OT wood canoes while a BSA canoeing merit badge instructor at Camp Powhatan as well as much lake and river paddling, wood and canvas is the #1 choice!

Your questions are most welcome and will be answered quickly.  Our price for this classic is firm. Thank you!