The purpose of this Association is to promote and enjoy the preservation and usage of antique watercraft by including its members in social events and communication.

In the year 1879, a small group of men, inspired by the idea of producing only high quality merchandise, commenced the manufacturing of Peterborough Canoes. They soon became recognized as the pioneers in small boat building in Canada. For the opening up of the Northern and Western territories of Canada to explorers, prospectors, surveyors, and others whose business took them beyond the lines of railway transportation, the canoe was a necessity. It was in those early days when only the best could stand the test, that the word "Peterborough" first became recognized as meaning "the standard of excellence" in small watercraft. Eighty years later, as a result of strictly adhering to quality policy, Peterborough watercraft became famous the world over, and the company enjoyed a reputation which was unsurpassed in the boat building industry. The company had its own lumber yard to enable the best selection of materials, a planing mill, a well equipped plant, and many highly skilled men who took pride in their workmanship. It expanded from the sturdy canoes of the late 1800s to sailing dinghies, sporty motor boats, and Express Cruisers of the 1950s. A momentous occasion for the Peterborough Boat Company was the personally crafted 12 foot cedar strip canoe presented to Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip as a wedding gift in 1948.

Thanks to Association member Dwight Boyd for providing the above information.

More information on the Peterborough Canoe Company and other local companies building canoes.

Below are photos of the wide variety of Peterborough Boats, some owned by Association Members as noted.

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