This is the story of the craftsmen who created the incomparable wooden launches of Ontario's famous Muskoka Lakes district.

The names Ditchburn, Duke, Greavette, and Minett are synonymous with top-of-the-line vintage watercraft. These shops, together with many lesser-known ones, set standards for artistry, woodworking, and finishing that were unsurpassed anywhere.

Most of the boats seen on these waters were built by local craftsmen, and many of these were "one-off" craft reflecting both the particular desires of the individual purchaser and the skilled craftsmanship of the builder. The Boatbuilders of Muskoka tells the story of these craftsmen and the principal shops that built some of the finest wooden boats in North America.

Illustrated with numerous contemporary photographs of the builders and their work -- ranging from rowboats to mine sweepers -- this book provides us with an invaluable record of a very special part of our boatbuilding heritage.

Join veteran boatbuilder A. H. Duke and noted Muskoka historian W. M. Gray for this fascinating look at the heyday of Muskoka boatbuilding.

A.H. Duke and William Gray

A. Duke's profile page

William Gray's profile page

Anyone with an interest in history and/or custom-built wooden boats will enjoy [this book].

Cottage Times