New England Chapter of ACBS

       The New England Chapter was born at the 1976 Boston Boat Show when a group of wooden boat enthusiasts gathered in admiration around a couple of show winning “woodies: Ted Larter’s Scotty II Goldcup Racer and Ray Hawe’s prized possession, 18’ Garwood Norma Jean. Behind the scene of this Boston gathering were Jim Irwin and Vince Callahan, both Lake Winnipesaukee marine dealers enjoying active retirement. The two had already initiated and pulled off two very successful “woodie” boat shows at The Weirs Beach docks on Lake Winnipesaukee. They were also charter members of ACBS National and had been instrumental in its formative stages during 1974-75. Their vision had stimulated a keen interest in an organized New England group of antique boat enthusiasts.
       Over 40 signatures accompanied the initial application for a New England Region, which would include Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. Because it encompassed such a large geographical area, the founders thought that by calling it a region they would, at a later time, be able to help other chapters get started, acting as a parent within their six-state region. On February 26, 1976, a constitution and bylaws were presented and approved, as well as the first slate of officers, led by its first President Gerry Davidson. The region was officially accepted as the New England Chapter April 12, 1976. To learn more, click here.