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| Why Restore the Argyle II? |
(Note: Originally posted on this blog in August 2008)
That’s a really good question and the best part about it is that there’s a really good answer. The Argyle II is an indelible part of Kenora’s history, just about everyone who lived or visited Kenora between 1936 and 1985 rode on it – at least once! There were the shuttles to Coney Island Beach, the ride out to Scotty’s Island, and many who stood on her decks are now long gone but the imprint of their footsteps were and still are, on the deck of the Argyle II.
So it’s a little about nostalgia but it is also about the important historical significance of this vessel. The Argyle II is of traditional wooden construction, carvel planking and all the other examples of craftsmanship that went in to building boats in this era. The vessel is one of the last surviving examples from the big wooden boat era on Lake of the Woods. For Kenora, the Argyle II is a central part of its history.
Our commerce was once dependent on these boats and so was transportation – especially leisure transportation - and the opportunity the Argyle II presented for everyone to get out and see the lake. Many people who lived in Kenora had no boat and the Argyle II was their only way to experience the grandeur of Lake of the Woods.
The Argyle II is perhaps, extra special because for 50 years, it was Kenora’s “water bus” and this is the reason just about everybody who lived here or who came here on their vacation during her hey day has taken a ride on her. If you think about it, preserving the Argyle II is preserving the memory and spirit of all who have been aboard her and a great celebration of a shared bond between the local citizens and those who visited Kenora during those years. Many in other regions of Northwestern Ontario, from Winnipeg and points west remember this old boat in the same way that the citizens of Kenora remember her.
What’s your story about riding on the Argyle II?
Has something like this been done before?
That’s another good question and the answer is yes, many times in communities across Canada and the United States. These are great examples to study and learn from and they prove restoring the Argyle II is well within the realm of the possible. The successes in other communities and the fact we have already achieved the goal of bringing the boat back to Kenora gives credibility to the local effort. These success stories will convince you that we can successfully restore the Argyle II if we work together!
What is the scope of the restoration effort?
The goal is to restore the boat to its original circa 1936 operational condition, with modifications to meet current safety regulations. This is a complete restoration from the keel up, with as much attention to detail to the original vessel as possible. The collective efforts of craftspeople and interested citizens and individuals will be the vehicle that gets the job done.
Who pays for it all?
If everyone gives just a little (of their money and their time) raising the necessary funds will be a cinch. The thrust behind rebuilding this grand old boat is to use mostly donated labour and materials – a complete community-based effort from the ground – or should we say the keel – up. Plans are of course, to raise money locally and from the many summertime residents who live on the lake, but this will hopefully be enhanced and supported by in-kind labour, materials and by grants from all levels of government.
The intent is to approach the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund, the Trillium Foundation and existing Federal Government programs that, for the right reasons, support this type of project.
What has been accomplished to date?
The short answer here is a lot! One of the first challenges faced by the group spearheading this effort was to save the boat from an impending date with the wrecker. This was achieved over four days from July 29-30, 2008 when Dominion Divers Ltd. out of Winnipeg were successful in patching and pumping the boat out and towing it safely to Kenora. We secured a site at Kuby’s Aircraft Ltd. and a big thanks to Kuby’s for coming through on the restoration site!
Who’s behind all this?
The names of the individuals involved don’t matter. The facts are a few people saw an opportunity to preserve an important part of Kenora’s history and took action. This group has now incorporated a not-for-profit organization called the Argyle II Historic Trust and have applied to Revenue Canada for charitable status. We want people to join our group to help make a successful project.
The Trust will be the pillars upon which the effort to rebuild the Argyle II will rest on. The main Board of Directors – consisting of community volunteers – will steer the ship (no pun intended) but there will be a need for sub-committees dedicated to achieving key goals in the areas of fundraising, materials acquisition, labour coordination and more.
What will the restored Argyle II not be used for?
It will not be operated as a cruise ship. The Objects of Incorporation for the Argyle II Historic Trust prohibit the boat’s use for commercial or “for profit” purposes.
It’s a big lake, there’s room for a few big boats.
Let’s restore her!
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Posted by Argyle on 2009-04-13 10:47:04 | Rating: | Views: 86
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