The stem and gunnel tips on the old Chestnut were failing. These spots are always prone to rot and just wear and tear. All in all, though, this 100 year old canoe is in great shape.

So, to do this, the planking in the stem tip area has to be removed to provide access. Then the Ash stem is cut down, the cut is made at an angle so that the new wood can be glued on using a scarph joint. The same for the gunnel ends. I always pre-fit the mortise and tenon joint that Chestnut used. Its a lot easier to shape the wood before gluing it in place, than after. In the early days of my work, I shaped the wood in place, but this way I can get all the pieces shaped and in place in one shot.

Epoxy is used as an adhesive for its waterproof capacity as well as its ability to bridge any small gaps that may be present in the joinery. The new wood is treated with boiled linseed oil prior to closing it back up with planking.

The new Spruce is very white compared to the old Spruce. It will need some staining to get a better colour match before varnishing. The same thing will need to be done to the new planking that is going in today.

A couple of the ribs ends had deteriorated quite badly, so they needed a splice as well.

Its not very apparent from these photos, but the deck is significantly crowned, and this crowning is carried over to the gunnels.


Old and new canoes, side by side. I wonder what shape that Mad River canoe will be like when its 100 years old? And who will be caring for it? And will they want to bother?