Welcome

This site, in past, primarily has been a medium for sharing information about antique model canoes, rather than a commercial sales venue. However, now that my large, 30-year, world-wide gathering of Indigenous models has moved on to other hands, and my broad collection of early N. American factory 'display samples' has been placed on long-term loan with the Canadian Canoe Museum for public viewing, I am left with a few pieces which I wish to make available to collectors. 

One of these is a duplicate sample from the Old Town Canoe Co., of Maine, ca. 1926. It is truly a rare 'survivor', having had a few bumps and even small repairs over a lifetime of sales service. It retains much of its original appearance; its logos, decals, brand name lettering, seats, caning, thwarts and decks are all untouched and totally original. 98% of its exterior paint is likewise original; it has some very modest 'touch-up' or in-painting to replace small areas of loss. Its interior was recently cleaned to remove flaking varnish and sealer, which had been applied very poorly sometime in mid-life, when it is also likely that a couple of small repairs were made to planking dented in a fall. All of this is described in explanatory captions added to photos below. Just click to enlarge and view in detail. Ask any questions you wish. The canoe is accompanied by two, period, 'sample' paddles; these may not be factory-issue, but suit the canoe perfectly for size and age.

This display model presents an opportunity to acquire a rare and authentic sample from the largest, best known canoe manufacturer ever. Old Town produced an estimated total of 120, or so, samples in either 48" or 96" lengths. It is likely that only 50 to 60 of this 48" style were ever made, according to a former company official. Such samples were awarded only to the Company's best retail sales outlets, never sold to individual customers. Included in the photos below is a copy of an original build sheet for a 48" model shipped to an outfitter store client in Hackensack, NJ, 1926; it is believed to relate to this exact piece, as that is where this sample was found more than a half-century ago. There are no known records of another sample being sent to that locale.

In recent years, a number of 48" Old Town samples have sold at public auction for prices between $25,000 to $30,000. This piece can be yours for the modest cost of $16,000 - a bargain, indeed! Shipping is included. This item currently is in Florida, and will be shipped from there. Your satisfaction is fully guaranteed, money back; it may be returned (within 14 days, at your cost) for complete refund, without explanation or argument. More info and photos available at: bushrat22@gmail.com. If desired, a personal viewing, in-hand, can be arranged, by prior appointment.