Launch, Gasoline
Name/Title
Launch, GasolineEntry/Object ID
2003.001Description
2003.001 Magnolia Boat Type: Open Motor Launch Builder: Grand Rapids Engine and Yacht Company (Michigan firm) Model: Unknown Original Power: G. R. E. & Y. Co. Monarch 1-cylinder s/n 1065 Current Power: Original Length: 17' Beam: 4' 6" Date Built: 1903 This small launch was built in 1903, by a firm which manufactured both boats and engines to go in them. Magnolia is a lapstrake boat, a method of construction which is not represented in any catalogs that we have from the Grand Rapids Engine and Yacht Company. It is difficult to determine the materials of the hull, but the decks and inside are oak. There are two bench seats, one on either side, supported by turned posts, with a helm at the bow. It does have rowlocks, but, at the moment, no seat to row from. The engine is original, and does appear in an early G.R.E.&Y.Co catalog. Monarch engines were marketed heavily in publications like Rudder and Motor Boat around the turn of the century. This is an "Erie" model; 3 ½ by 3 ½ with jump-spark ignition. This boat is also fitted with a reversing propeller from Monarch, which was part of the engine's original equipment. This system allows the operator to obtain forward, neutral, and reverse by adjusting the pitch of the propeller with lever. The Lozier launch Minnie, acc. no. 1990.008, is similarly outfitted. Bob Cox had Magnolia restored prior to donation, and she remains in very nice shape, though some of her hardware is not original or strictly appropriate. The wide, white seams in the decking are also most likely not original to the design. EVS 08Collection
BoatsAcquisition
Accession
2003.001Source or Donor
Cox, RobertMade/Created
Manufacturer
Grand Rapids Engine and Yacht CompanyDate made
1903Notes
Early Date: 1903 Propulsion: Inboard Cylinders: 1Dimensions
Length
17 ftDimension Notes
Width: 4.4166666667 ftLocation
Wall
EastRoom
Bay 2Building
*Don Doebler Collections Storage Facility*Don Doebler Collections Storage Facility
Bartlett Point Barn 1