09/02/2010

Maine’s WoodenBoat Universe

The WoodenBoat Store welcomes visitors

Huge brick barns house the workshops

WoodenBoat Magazine and the WoodenBoat School are a short 45 minute drive away from Acadia National Park in Brooklin, Maine. This is the center of the universe for people who lust after traditional wooden rowing, sail and power craft. Remarkably, the magazine and school are situated on an incredible 60 acres of what can only be described as Maine coastal paradise. This property is open to any who would like to pay a respectful visit, and is a great day trip for folks lodging in the Acadia area.

Jon Wilson, July 29, 2010

WoodenBoat was started by Jon Wilson in 1974 from a nearby cabin without running water or electricity. He had two subscribers. After a fire destroyed his home he published out of a Volkswagen bus. Phenomenal growth in circulation allowed the purchase of the coastal property in 1977, the site of a grand family mansion and barns. WoodenBoat School was begun in 1981. Today, a wooden boat lover can choose from many courses, from building a skiff to making his or her own bronze cannon. These courses are not really “career oriented”, but more for enhancing quality of life. Students can camp on the estate for a nominal fee or accept dorm-like lodgings. Students are able to participate in the wetter aspects of boating as well; a beautiful harbor and dock allow full access to the southern end of Eggemoggin Reach. Students can even show up for class in their own boats!

WoodenBoat has been instrumental in the renaissance of wooden boat building and appreciation in Maine and far beyond. The culture of wooden boats has taken hold and inspired other schools, shows, regattas and builders. I know a few of the staff and I can tell you without reserve that this is a jewel of an organization, one we would be much poorer without.

So pay a visit to the store and buy a set of plans or a book (like Building Small Boats by our friend and WoodenBoat instructor Greg Rössel) and then check out the workshops. You will find yourself signing up for a course in no time.