Waters Balch & Co Paper Boats

Introduction

The first patent for paper boats were made in Troy NY by George Waters and His Father Elisha. The idea came about in 1860s when George Waters was in search of a mask for a masquerade he was to attend. Not finding a mask at a price he could afford, he set out to make one. His father Elisha was a paper box manufacturer in troy. He used paper pulp from his fathers box factory to mold a mask. Following this, George had the idea to layer paper over a shell and make a boat hull. The Waters used a Cedar canoe shell as a mold, and layers of manila paper were laid and held together with shellac. Once many layers were build up. the hull was removed from the mold and a minimal spruce frame was built inside. the paper was waterproofed with varnish. The boat weighed in at just over 30 lbs., making it 10 lbs. lighter than the lighter of cedar boats of the time. The boat was not only lighter but stronger as well.

The Boats

Large scale Production of paper racing boats began in 1867. The boats were refined to be as even lighter, with a 28' long 12" wide boat with a seat and outriggers weighing less than 22 lbs. Paper in the 1800s was made primarily using linen or cotton fiber, making it different than the wood fiber paper used today. These boats were an early precursor to fiberglass boats. Rowing was a popular sport at the time, and after getting their boats in use by some top rowing crews they began winning races.