A Model Towboat Exhibit, curated and made possible by King’s Landing, is on display at Connell House, 128 Connell Street, Woodstock from June —September, 2023
Hours: 9-5 pm Monday to Friday Weekends by appointment by calling (506) 328-9706
This summer, Connell House is hosting a unique exhibit of 10 beautifully crafted towboat models that would have serviced the Wolastoq/Saint John River throughout the 19th century. These vessels were used to transport supplies and passengers to Woodstock and beyond. The models were crafted by John Geldart, a retired architect from Fredericton and were previously on display at King’s Landing. Please find below a brief description by John of the significance of the exhibit.
“The history of inland watercraft of the Wolastoq/Saint John River is a rich and diverse subject. Previous researchers in the field include Tappan Adney/Howard Chapelle ( The Bark and Skin Boats of North America, unpublished reference work, 1947-51), Ray MacKean & Robert Perceval ( Inshore Fishing Craft of Atlantic Canada, 1979), and George MacBeath’s ” Johnny Woodboat, (1969). More recently, Jane Cook’s “Coalescence of Styles 1763–1851 (2001)” adds valuable insights to the origins of settler skillsets during early development of these watercraft.
These works, and anecdotal evidence reveal design and operational characteristics that describe a unique contribution to Canadian maritime and regional waterways history. In the narrower context of our local cultural/industrial history of the Wolastoq/Saint John River, it would seem appropriate to title his exhibition of towboats simply The Woodstock Fleet”.
John Geldart mraic
Museums
Connell House Museum
Winter Hours of Operations: Please call for an appointment to view the museum. Please call in advance (506) 328-9706.
The Old Carleton County Court House
Winter Hours of Operations: Please call for an appointment to view the museum. Please call in advance (506) 328-9706.
