Who made these paddles

[Paul Miller]

Hi,

Attached are pictures of some older paddles that appear to be made by someone other than a home builder.

There are remnants of decals on both paddles. One shows the best outline of the complete decal, the other shows the last word in the lower right corner as "Bros."

The paddles are multiple pieces laminated but on the long axis as seen the the picture of the edge of the blade with the black line in the middle.

The paddles were aquired with a Willits Bros. canoe but I've never seen paddles like these or the logo.

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Paul

 

[pklonowski]

Is that a dowel inserted into the thick part of the grip? I saw that once, many years ago... can't remember when or right now. Scout camp?

 

[Paul Miller]

Yes, there is a dowel going through the grip to secure the 3 piece lamination.

 

[CParker]

For what it's worth I've got a pair of paddles with the same method of construction, although the blades may be shaped a bit differently. There are no decals or other markings. I was given them with a 1939 OT Yankee 3 or so years ago. They are quite heavy so I don't use them much, but like you have wondered about their origins.

 

[Grand Rapids paddle]

Hi,I saw one one these paddles in a Tommy Hillfiger spread ad some time ago. A group of people hanging out
in up state New York. http://customcanoepaddle.com/

 

[Dave Osborn]

...for whatever it's worth,... I once saw this type of paddle on e-bay advertised as a military surplus/life raft paddle.

 

[Dinty Moore]

I can't identify them but I have 2 Old Town spruce paddles that I purchased new in 1974 and they're still like new..they even have the original decals. Know anybody who'd like to buy them. I think back then I paid around $50 - $60 apiece for them and you can't get anything like them today. my email is madmanboston@gmail.com