Karen Wand's Canadian Boat Builders . . .

Leaving the River at the end of the summer is always difficult – but this year, author Karen Wand made it so much easier. What could make not seeing the River each morning any easier? Simple. Karen sent me a copy of her newly published book.

One of the reviews said, “She hit it out of the park.” And I totally agree. But having it available in Canadian bookshops now, in November, means it will be available for Christmas presents. Something that will make all of us who are now back in our hometowns or down south on the beach so much happier.

Let’s start with the people involved, for this is a family-inspired accomplishment. The families of the boat builders devoted time and memories for Karen, as did her own family. Brothers Phil and Robert Chitty, sister Heather Chitty, and Bob’s wife, Louise Casavant and Phil's wife, Joanne. In fact, Louise did the layout, Heather was the editor. Yes, all played a role in encouraging and assisting her. Everyone knew what the book meant to Karen, and more importantly, what it would mean for preserving the history of boat building in the Thousand Islands and the Rideau Waterway.

Karen's Acknowledgments

“ What began as a simple family history project unexpectedly evolved into an exciting journey into the world of boat building. I dedicated countless hours cold-calling individuals to talk about Jack Malette, my late husband’s great-uncle. The enthusiasm I encountered was overwhelming.

Almost 40 years later, a presentation on behalf of the Thousand Islands Boat Museum enabled me to explore the work of many other builders in the region, and this book is the result.

I will be forever grateful for the hospitality the families extended to me, which helped me ensure their boatbuilder’s story is accurate. They graciously gave me a glimpse into their family life, and their influence is evident in these stories. The stories are not my own; I have merely compiled them. . . .”

Table of Contents

About the boat builders . . .

The stories of each and every boat builder will be appreciated, as we have all seen boats of the past and been told, “She was built by – –” With 202 photographs (I counted), you will be impressed, and more importantly, get a glimpse into the lives of boat builders. Add to that the illustrations and photographs of the cover of the book and you will be impressed and appreciative.

One section will make you smile because it is poetry written by Gretchen Huntley, Gananoque’s poet laureate. Her section is a perfect example of how many families in each River community are linked to this industry.

Tribute by Brian Phillips

The late Brian Phillips, local historian, wrote a review of the book, which was greatly appreciated by Karen, since Brian's wife, Dianne, was builder Clifford Hunt's granddaughter. Sadly, Brian died this year in October.

To summarize, your book about our local boat builders is a treasure! It presents such a valuable record of a proud facet of our local history and ethos. You have compiled and beautifully presented a mountain of fascinating information about the boats and their builders. Clearly you have an extraordinary ability to research, extract, cajole or in some other magical ways elicit so much about the builders. You have given us not just the foundational facts we need but insight into the lives and personalities of the builders. So much of that would be lost if not for you. Thank you for sharing and preserving that. You have created a book that deserves a prominent place in our annals and has become a key addition to my personal collection of local Canadiana. And, it’s even beautiful to look at! Congratulations and many, many thanks.

Did I like it, too?

When I was asked if I “liked” the book, I said it was GOLD. Throughout my years of researching Thousand Islands history, every time I found a book or a reference that I knew answered some of my questions, I would say that material was GOLD. Certainly, as TI Life's editor, my praise is not very important, but I must say loud and clear to anyone interested in history of the Thousand Islands – this one is GOLD and I loved the book!

On sale now

Karen launched the book on November 1 in Rockport, ON. They are going fast, so call and place your order now. Books are available at Andress Boat Works, Huck’s Marine & Resort, Gilberts Marine and the Thousand Islands Boat Museum in Gananoque.  Or contact the author directly. (karen.wand57@gmail.com).

By Susan W. Smith, Editor, info@thousandislandslife.com

Comments

Bud Andress, Hill Island writes: I am extremely grateful that a brief look back into the lives and skills of George Edward and his son Raymond Lane Andress of Gananoque has been put down in pictures and words by Karen. It was a lot of fun with many laughs and some serious revelations while speaking with Karen through the crafting of her book. If anyone can dig and find out something - it’s Karen. Thank you Karen for ensuring the legacy of these local Canadian boatbuilders can be now found in one place. Congratulations on the launching of your book (pun intended).