We're in a jam! We need white oak.

[MyKneesHurt]

Hello folks,
Please don't judge me but I'm participating in a traditional kayak build the few days prior to Delmarva Paddler's Retreat, near Rehoboth, Delaware. We've gotten a bunch of green white oak for rib stock, but unfortunately it was of such poor quality that we're a bit worried that we'll be able to rib everyone's boat. If anyone in the southeastern Delaware area knows a sawyer, or by some miracle has green or air-dried white oak, could you drop me a line? Happy to pay market for it, but time is of the essence. I would bet they'd be willing to drive anywhere within an hour or two.
Thank you all.

 

[Boatman53]

Any big boatshops near you? I’ll look around and see what I can find.
Jim
I don’t know the distance but how far away is Philadelphia? If nothing else give them a call and maybe the have a supplier that will help.

The Seaport Boat Shop – Independence Seaport Museum

www.phillyseaport.org

Jim

 

[JohnSand]

Check with the Marine Museum in St Michael's. They do a lot of building. There's a small boat shop in Lewes too, run by volunteers.
My wife's grandfather had a sawmill down there, but he and it are long gone.

 

[Boatman53]

Yes of course John I forgot about St. Michaels. Good call.
Jim

 

[Benson Gray]

The links below have several canoe restorers and local chapters in that area who might be able to help. They may not have white oak but can probably supply white cedar rib stock that will bend well. Good luck,

Benson

BuildersSuppliers

www.woodencanoe.org

Chapters | Wooden Canoe Heritage Association

www.woodencanoe.org

 

[MyKneesHurt]

Thank you all!
This is a great community, where I can get so many great responses in such a short time. We got things figured out (I think) when someone relatively local phoned a friend with a sawmill. -MKH