Rooster Class #750, YANKEE DOODLE, completed July 2021, in Conroe, TX. Launched July 10, 2021 at East Ferry Landing (Narragannsett Bay), Jamestown, R.I.

The Covid summer of 2020 was a time of distress and dislocation for many. For New Yorker Lorne Swarthout it was also an opportunity to build a boat in his friend’s garage/workshop in Southwest Harbor, Maine. The project was a Great Auk 14 from Chesapeake Light Craft.

Built during lockdown for my 3-year-old daughter, who helped choose the fabric for skinning. The boat is a Wee Lassie from Dave Gentry, built from plans. Very happy with the outcome!

Built of 4mm okume ply with ash thwarts breasthooks and trim. Lightly Glassed inside and out, Heavily glassed on the bottom. Adapted from the freedom 15 design from Bear Mountain Boats.
Built using west system epoxy and Epifanes finish. A really fun boat to paddle for sure.

4 different cedars with a mahogany trim, she’s a joy to row.Newfound Woodworks designed kit.

Launching Scrappy, Rooster # 744, at the first annual Rooster Week, in 2014.

Launching Dancer, Rooster # 745, at the first annual Rooster Week, in 2014.