ABOUT THE CATALOGUE

The Spalding Boat Company produced a large assortment of high quality boats in the late nineteenth century in Ogdensburg, New York. The company imported wood and other materials from Europe to produce vessels to the highest standard in the North Country. There were many different models of Spalding St. Lawrence boats, which provided the Adirondacks with a vast variety that ranged from sailing canoes, racing craft, and sailing yachts. In the Adirondack region, boating is a predominant part of the culture. Canoes were used by Native Americans, such as the Mohawks, to travel and survive. They established a legacy of boating in the region that was later inherited by European settlers. Canoes were used by Adirondack guides as well as by common folk to travel and explore.

The catalog cover is made out of canvas-like thick paper and has a fish displayed at the center. An illustration of a fish, instead of a boat, highlights that Spalding boats are functional and might entice an outdoorsman to make a purchase. Beneath the title, the Roman numerals for the year 1876 correspond to the year of the catalog. As one flips through the small pocket-sized book, the neatly organized pages display models of boats and give details as well as a summary of the designs.

Although this catalog seems to be just a description of the Spalding St. Lawrence boats in 1876, it portrays the Adirondack region through its rugged yet elegant designs. This catalog is more than just an old advertisement; it is a portal to older times and into the heart of Adirondack heritage and the exceptional legacy of the region. -Gabe Albertson

The Spalding St. Lawrence Boat Company Catalogue, 1876
North Country Boats and Boating Collection, Folders 1.1-1.12
Special Collections
Owen D. Young Library
St. Lawrence University
Canton, NY