Where to begin ...
The hull was built by a friend of my father's, John Higgins in the early '70s. Later on dad bought the bare hull from John and pulled it out of a barn covered in feathers and bird droppings. Dragged it home on a borrowed car trailer. Serveral years and money permitting the boat was finally completed in 1980. As a family we got over 10 years of enjoyment out of it. But in the early 90's the engine died and dad had to park it for lack of money and time, eventually it came to rest in his backyard behind the barn.. About four years ago my son and I were out at mom and dads' cleaning up when I suggested we should try to get it in somewhere to dry out. My friend Terry owns a large shop just outside of Bridgenorth, Ontario where we ended up towing it too. Now for the past three years Terry, Josh and I have all contributed to the restoration .
What started out to be a winter project of sanding, painting and cleaning up has turned into what seems an eternity of removing fiberglass and rotted plywood.
Posted on 28 aug 2011
Nearing the end ...
Let it be said after three years and countless hours I maybe near the end. Every time someone asked if I was close I run into another snag, knock on wood, I've resurfaced the entire boat now so there should be no more surprises. Today's plan is to glass the deck and paint before year end . Then start the hardware and engine in Janurary. If anyone has any color suggestions send them along I need all the help I can get. Was kind of shooting for red and white but totally open right now. Check the progress link for picture gallery.
History behind the motor ...
The hardware that my father accummulated and was through connection and word of mouth. Imagine this was during the 70's . No internet searching or email contacts. He found Nickson headers in Ottawa , motor mounts near Oshawa and what he couldn't find he made himself. Never the less everything bought or made was for big block chevys. So to this day the boat has had two big blocks in her. Starting with a 454 in the 70's which ended up in a Chevelle and then a 396 which is now being restored.
Special thank to . . .
- Cybezone | Cyberforce Productins Inc.
- If it was not for Terry this would never have happened
______________________________ - Glen L
To a company thats strives on originality and heritage
_____________________________ - Monagahan Lumber
For putting up with my endless questions about wood. As I knew nothing going into this.
______________________________ - Trent Severn Antique & Classic Boat Association
A great group of people with a passion for the history of boating. Thank you for the strength to finish - ______________________________
Follow her on facebook
