November 1, 2026

Hello Fellow members,

Well, I finally feel like it’s the fall of the year; I’m wearing socks, jeans and long sleeves. I hope those of you who live in a place that provides fall colors get a good show. I can’t say that about the coastal area, where it goes from green to brown. Anyway, there is usually some good boating to be had so I hope y’all take advantage of that.

With October also comes the Georgetown Wooden Boat show in South Carolina. We had several members displaying their boats there. Rob Weller had his 1938 Chris Craft, John Tinney had his 1930 Elco, and Jim Hartman had his 1955 Chris Craft. Both John and Rob received blue ribbons in their respective class. Jim Quinn and Alice and Jim Dean also attended.

Our chapter also held a workshop at Cape Fear Community College. Member Steve Weaver brought his steam launch “Iona” and gave a very comprehensive show and tell session, detailing the boat’s construction and steam propulsion components. In all, about 25 members and guests attended.

Next month, the Southport NC Maritime Museum will be holding their show on November 7^th. This is a nice show that features everything from rowboats to classic wooden yachts. On the same day, chapter members Robert and Patsy Blanchard will be hosting their homecoming day at their homestead. Info on this can be found in last month’s newsletter. Either on of these events is certainly worth going to.

In closing, I’d like to pay homage to departed member Lonnie Sieck. He was a friend and mentor to all who knew him. I’ll forever have in my mind the image of Lonnie plying the waters in “Symmetry” or his little Lyman outboard. Unfortunately, Lonnie leaves behind some vintage marine engines as well as some floating stock, that need to find new homes. More on this when the details are worked out.

I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving and get out for a boat ride!

Yours in classic boating, 

Alan Hills, President