HISTORY
The History of the Hanmer Guideboat & Canoe Race
Like his father Theodore Hanmer (1860 -1957) from whom he learned the trade, Willard was revered as a master Guideboat builder. His guideboats were in great demand; however, he refused to sacrifice quality in lieu of mass production. Willard carefully built the entire boat by hand so that it was entirely free of imperfections.
Willard continued to build this Adirondack treasures until his death in 1962, at the age of 61.
His shop is still in operation and is the last of the original working guideboat shops in the Adirondacks. Currently owned and run by Chris Woodward, a master guideboat builder himself, the art is continued through today. The style of boat is patterned closely after the canoes used by the American Indians. Guideboats weigh approximately 80 pounds; however, can safely carry a half -ton, including three people.
In 1963, The Hanmer was created in Willards honor and has been held annually on the Sunday closest to the Fourth of July. The race was such a success it quilckly expanded from just folboats and Guideboats to include canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards.
The race ran annually through its 50th anniversary in 2012. It was successfully revived in 2022.