Porthole to the Past

The wooden boat community in the Inland Northwest, which could be considered to include eastern Washington, northern Idaho, western Montana, and even southern British Columbia is a very strong one. There are over 400 wooden boats currently on Lake Coeur d’ Alene alone, not counting boats at the other three main lakes in the area.

The Inland Empire ACBS Chapter: Celebrating 24 Years of Classic Boat Enthusiasm

The Inland Empire Chapter of the Antique and Classic Boat Society (ACBS) was founded in 2000 by a dedicated group of boat enthusiasts who were already members of other ACBS chapters in the Pacific Northwest. Recognizing a growing community of classic boat lovers in northern Idaho and eastern Washington, they petitioned to form a new chapter, which was officially recognized in 2001. Today, the Inland Empire Chapter remains part of the Northwest ACBS network, alongside the Columbia Willamette, Pacific Northwest, Big Sky, and Okanagan Chapters.

As of summer 2024, the Inland Empire Chapter boasts 125 members. The chapter hosts three major boat shows each year, including the Sandpoint Boat Show, Coeur d’Alene Boat Festival, and the Dry Rot Boat Show at Priest Lake. These events celebrate the craftsmanship of classic wooden boats, their restoration, and the passionate individuals who care for them.

Honoring Excellence in Classic Boating

Since its inception, the Inland Empire Chapter has recognized exceptional boat restorations, new builds, and the individuals behind these remarkable vessels. The chapter’s awards program began in earnest in 2014 with the recognition of The Inland Scuttlebutt, the chapter's newsletter, edited by Wes Yandt. The chapter’s commitment to excellence has been further acknowledged with two “Chapter of the Year” awards in 2018 and 2021. Additionally, in 2023, the chapter’s website—developed by webmaster Alan Wardsworth—earned second place in the ACBS website competition.

Behind the success of these initiatives is a devoted group of chapter members who work tirelessly to organize and run the shows, ensuring they are a continued success year after year.

A Legacy of Wooden Boat Shows at Coeur d'Alene Resort

2024 marks the 40th anniversary of the wooden boat shows held at the Coeur d'Alene Resort Marina. While the event has become a hallmark of the region, its history has not been without challenges. The journey began in 1984 when Syd Young, owner of StanCraft Boats, saw the need for a boat show to highlight the region’s passion for wooden boats. This vision led to the first show at the Coeur d'Alene Resort, launching an annual tradition that would continue for decades.

However, in 2001, the chapter faced a decline in interest for a Coeur d’Alene show, prompting the main event to move to Sandpoint, Idaho, on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille. The Sandpoint Boat Show has flourished over the years, attracting both local businesses and the public. For 24 years, the event has been met with enthusiastic participation, with only one down year—due to the COVID-19 pandemic. One of the unique highlights of the Sandpoint Show is the kids' boat-building and decorating event, which was started by local character Captain Dan. Today, StanCraft Boats, one of the chapter’s key sponsors, continues this tradition, producing 300 boats annually for children to decorate and float.

Reviving the Coeur d'Alene Show

Interest in bringing the boat show back to Coeur d’Alene was reignited in 2015 thanks to Duane Hagadone, the owner of the CDA Resort, who shared a deep love for wooden boats. Hagadone tasked Craig Brosenne, president of Hagadone Marine Group, with the responsibility of making the show a permanent fixture at the resort. Craig, along with Murray Danzig, Ron Yandt, Daryl Reynolds, and Don Vogt, worked diligently to relaunch the show. The first event in 2016 featured just eight boats, with contributions from Murray (four boats), Daryl (two boats), and Ron and Don (one boat each). Since then, the show has grown exponentially, with 68 boats on display in the most recent edition.

The Dry Rot Show at Priest Lake

In addition to the Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint shows, the Inland Empire Chapter also hosts the Dry Rot Boat Show at Priest Lake, which began through the efforts of Steve and Linda Zwarg, along with past International ACBS President Dick Werner and his wife Louise. Held over Labor Day weekend, the Dry Rot Show has become a favorite for boat owners who appreciate its “use your boat” format. The event includes a poker run, parade, and trips to the upper Priest Lake, offering plenty of fun on the water for participants. Following the passing of Dick Werner, Brian and Kathy Fair have continued to carry on the traditions of the Dry Rot Show.

Regional and International Accomplishments

In addition to the regional boat shows, the Inland Empire Chapter has hosted the prestigious ACBS International Show in 2002, 2008, 2013, and 2021. Chapter members have also served on the ACBS international board, with notable contributions from figures like BK Powell, Dick Werner, and Dick Winn. Four Inland Empire members—Bob Henshaw, Steve Zwarg, Murray Danzig, and Daryl Reynolds—have been featured on the Mahogany & Chrome production, further solidifying the chapter's influence within the classic boating community.

In 2008, the chapter hosted the first (and so far only) ACBS regional show, where multiple chapters—Inland Empire, Okanogan, Payette, Montana, Seattle, and Portland—came together at the Coeur d’Alene Resort to display 80 boats. Outside of the main shows, the chapter also participates in other events, such as the Spokane Boat Show and the Show & Shine in March, as well as a boat trip along the St. Joe River in August.

Giving Back to the Community

The Inland Empire Chapter has long believed in giving back to the community and supporting future generations. This commitment is evident in the chapter's fundraising efforts, such as the 2023 Sandpoint Boat Show auction, which raised $10,000 for Creations for Kids, a local nonprofit. The chapter has also supported the Northwest School for Wooden Boat Building with an annual donation of $750 and raised over $8,000 for the kids' diabetes camp at Priest River. In addition, the chapter partners with local schools to promote STEM education, Career and Technical Education (CTE), and local businesses. Notable educational projects include the Sandpoint High School boat-building project, the Little Boat Builders initiative for elementary students, and the Central Valley High School restoration project.

Looking Ahead to the 2024 Coeur d'Alene Boat Festival

The Inland Empire Chapter is looking forward to celebrating the 40th anniversary of wooden boat shows at the Coeur d'Alene Resort Marina on August 3rd and 4th, 2024. The event will be held in conjunction with two major Coeur d'Alene events: "Art on the Green" and the Coeur d'Alene "Street Fair." Seventy-five of the finest classic and contemporary boats from across the West—and beyond—will be on display.

The Inland Empire Chapter’s boat shows continue to attract members and boats from other ACBS chapters in the Northwest, with past events featuring participation from as many as six different chapters. The chapter looks forward to welcoming both newcomers and seasoned boat enthusiasts to the boardwalk for this exciting 40th anniversary celebration.