You can see the way boats were made in early America. Old tools and techniques are on display in... read more
You can see the way boats were made in early America. Old tools and techniques are on display in... read more
What an amazing place! Oldest boat builder in America. There is some management here but the place... read more
An amazing place to visit with teenagers., which we did with two of our grandchildren. They were as amazed at the items in the museum as we were. What craftsmanship. It is right on the Merrimack river and is also an active workshop where boats are in various stages of creation. A historical building just filled with boat making history.
A wonderful place to see boat building at it's best. Learn some Amesbury history,and take a row boat on the Merrimack River.Excellent Experience.
We participate in an antique show here in December. The building, the staff, their mission are all top notch. A wonderful part of Amesbury and its tradition.
Lowell's is the oldest continually operating boat shop in America...and it is a true sensory experience to visit. The sights, smells and feel of the ancient building are amazing...hints of centuries of craftsmen's efforts surround you when you explore the well-worn floors, hand-hewn beams and wonderfully warped ancient windows that look out over the Merrimack River. Since it is very much an active workshop, the aroma of freshly shaved wood is in the air in the summer, as is the woodsmoke from the old potbellied stove in winter. Take a trip back in time and visit Lowell's. You'll be glad you did.
When my British Mum, I was an exchange student in 1970, came to visit, her requests was to see local places of interest . I knew she would love Lowell's. My friend Dennis, who volunteers at the shop was our guide. Being a working museum it was great seeing young people working on these dory's and skiffs. However, the short video explained how the dory set off from the mother ship with two men and hundreds of feet of lines with hooks to catch cod. Being close to 100 miles out in George's Banks and then up to 15 miles from the mother ship was certainly a dangerous way to make a living. Mum was thrilled, and was so impressed with the craftsmanship. Lowell's has been there for over 200 years, I hope it is there for another 200.
When I moved to area 5 months ago I already knew I would be visiting Lowell's Boat Shop. After watching the piece on PBS featuring Graham McKay, and the efforts of the boat shop to pass down the art of boat-making, this is a worthy stop on any journey. We rowed one of the dories for an hour last week and if you hit the river just right, it's pretty smooth sailing. The staff is friendly and willing to answer your questions. Believe me, if you have an interest you will have many to ask.
So, get off your duff, go to Lowell's, take a row, and do this. :)