Wooden Boat Show motoring into town

SANDPOINT — Along the boardwalk, down by the creek, there's no better place to be when the Sandpoint Boat Show motors into town this weekend.

"These boats all, in some way, have a story behind them," said Don Robson, one of the show's chairs. "Maybe their dad’s boat, their dream, their newfound hobby to restore them, and many more little secrets. You can tell that in many cases by asking the owner how they came about the name of the boat — and get ready for the unexpected answer."

It's the 22nd year that the Antique and Classic Boat Show has been held, with boats arriving in town this afternoon. The boardwalk will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday along the boardwalk lining Sand Creek. 

Hosted by the Inland Empire Chapter, the show attracts not only boats from throughout the region but often from throughout the country. Nationally, the society has upward of 8,000 members. Robson said the show expects to attract participants from a half-dozen other chapters or more.

"Our members comment over and over how much they enjoy coming to Sandpoint and meeting the local community citizens who show so much interest in the boats and ask great questions of the owners," he said.

As in past years, dozens of wooden boats line the Sandpoint marina and Sandpoint Boardwalk. The boats will begin docking today, with a boat show and parade set for Saturday. Boaters will spend Sunday exploring the lake.

Robson said the boat show is on trend to reach historical levels, rebounding from decreased participation brought about by the pandemic. Chapter officials anticipate that 45 to 50 boats will be taking part in this year's show.

Boat show officials said they appreciate the community's boating coating allowing the show to take over the boardwalk for the weekend. Inspired by the hospitality, Robson said chapter members love to share classic wooden boats that are an average of 65 years old, with most being of unique wood construction.

Over the years, the show has seen entries from just about everywhere and featured everything from international show winners to everyday boats to boats made of different materials. 

"All have owners committed to their preservation and restoration," Robson said. "This year is no exception, as we will have a first-ever display of no less than six boats manufactured by the Dodge Motor Company, with the oldest being 100 years old."

The first-time Dodge exhibit will showcase 559 years of unique historical wooden beauty, Robson said.

"When you view this exhibit, you are going to see names like Horace Dodge and the Harrah family coupled with a storied history dating back to 1924."

Since the show launched in Sandpoint, Robson said the chapter has been supporting local causes. This year is no different, with chapter members selecting Creations on the Bridge, which is raising money for a new Lego shop. ACBS officials encouraged show fans to show their appreciation of the event by contributing support to the organization.

Officials with the community arts and crafts foundation impressed show members with their passion and commitment to the community's youth, Robson said.

"It’s no surprise that we saw the sailboat the kids play on as well as the numerous experiences these kids are exposed to in over 2,000 square feet of the Sandpoint bridge," he said.

At the show, youth participate in face painting as well as the boat-building experience, authored by "Capt. Dan" Mimmack and sponsored by Stancraft Boats.

A fan favorite event, the traditional boat show parade, will again take place with boats leaving the boardwalk at 3 p.m. Saturday. Led by the Sandpoint Fire Department's fire boat, the classic vessels then head up Sand Creek, traveling under both the Bridge Street bridge and the Cedar Street Bridge, before heading out past City Beach.

A great viewing spot to watch the parade is from the bridges over Sand Creek, Robson said.

From a chance to catch an early peek at the boats today to talking with boat owners in depth Saturday and the fun of the boat parade, ACBS officials said the event truly does offer something for everyone. 

"This year’s goal was to bring in additional boats of interest, and the Dodge exhibit is a great addition to our special core base of boat presentation," said Robson. 

Add in the expanded youth activities, from the face painting to the boat building, and the new Creations partnership, and this is a must-attend event.

"It deserves to be entered on your phone or printed calendar for attendance," said Robson.

Information: Inland Empire Chapter of the Antique and Classic Boat Society, inlandempireacbs.com; Creations on the Bridge, creationsforsandpoint.org