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RARE ORIGINAL ANTIQUE OLD TOWN CANOE COMPANY

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:7,500.00 USD Estimated At:15,000.00 - 18,000.00 USD
RARE ORIGINAL ANTIQUE OLD TOWN CANOE COMPANY

SALESMAN SAMPLE MADE IN 1926. This 48" Old Town Canoe sample in original condition is a wonderful sporting rarity. There were a number of early canoe manufacturers in the State of Maine around the turn of the 20th century including Old Town, which eventually became the leader. The company is still in business today but in the early 1900’s, they distributed a limited amount of these rare display samples. These samples were not simply given to anyone who handled Old Town canoes but only to those customers who purchased one or two car train loads of Old Town canoes. They received one of these 48" samples or possibly an 8 ft. example. According to records as can be best ascertained it is believed that less than 100 of these 48" models were made and distributed (it is also believed that 30-40 8 ft. examples were made and distributed).
This canoe was discovered approximately 60 years ago near Hackensack, New Jersey. While researching the Old Town Canoe Co. files, a record (#88798) was discovered which quite likely relates to this model. Please note: most of the Old Town sample canoes do NOT contain serial numbers as do their full size items. The 'build cards' identify each item made with a serial number and description of size, paint, trim, etc.; however, these numbers exist on the sales slips but not always on the canoe itself. During the research it was discovered that only one Old Town Canoe sample manufactured in 1926 was shipped on Feb. 27 to J.W. Teshune Manufacturing Company, 239 Main Street, Hackensack, New Jersey. Few such examples remain today, and even fewer in original condition. REFERENCE: this exact canoe model is illustrated and described in a recent book titled, “Little Things That Matter: Collecting Antique Factory Sample Canoes” by Roger Young on page #80. In addition to this canoe, a great number of small canoes or salesman sample canoes from various companies are illustrated and described in this interesting book. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: a pair of sample paddles of appropriate size and vintage accompany the canoe along with a copy of above referenced book "Little Things That Matter" signed by author as well as inscribed to the next owner of this fine piece. Photocopy of Old Town 'build record' 88798 is included. Accompanied by a custom made stand for display. SIZE: 48". CONDITION: some small repairs and touch ups over the years. The paint is a little faded on one side which is to be expected as these examples were normally hung in the store window so the side was exposed to the sun. Most importantly the canoe retains its original fragile decals and lettering which is also original. PROVENANCE: From the personal collection of Roger Young. (05-1/JDJ). $15,000-18,000.