Apalachicola to Host Antique Boat Show

The seventh annual historic Apalachicola classic and antique boat show is set for Saturday, April 23 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in downtown Apalachicola.

Stroll along the streets of the historic downtown riverfront where antique boats and classic examples of traditional vessels will be on display.

This festival will emphasize the maritime history of the picture1sque coastal town about 25 miles east of Port St. Joe on Highway 98.

Special highlights will include authentic oyster boats, workboats and an array of small classic and antique boats. Enjoy a display of antique outboard engines and a model boat exhibit, nautical arts and crafts and nautical antiques.

People with an antique boat built prior to 1970, or a classic example of a traditional vessel, who are interested in showing, may contact Anita Grove at the Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce at (850) 653-9419 or by email to anita@apalachicolabay.org.

"It’s going well. We have a lot of different boats, from as far away as Bradenton," said Grove. "New this year are antique automobiles."

She said at least four Model T Fords will be on display, together with a 1950 Studebaker and a 1958 Ford Fairlane 500 Victoria.

Among the boats so far in the show are a 14-foot 1945 Thompson, a 17-foot 1971 Glasstron, a 24-foot Pete Culler fantail launch, a 32-foot American Marine Grand Banks, a 19-foot 1967 Seacraft, a 13-foot 1946 Thompson, a 16-foot 1961 Century Corsair, a 16-foot 1964 Lyman and several early canoes.

Included among these are a 15-foot 1873 cedar plank canoe and a 17-foot 1916 Old Town canoe.

The boat show will also feature a judged art show, showcasing a variety of artwork with a maritime theme.

For more information on the art show, or to enter it, call Ed Tiley at 653-3332.