'Chris-Craft Jamboree' set to visit Buffalo Launch Club

45^th annual Antique and Classic Boat Show is Sept. 7

√ BLC to celebrate 150^th anniversary of Chris-Crafts

By Terry Duffy

Editor-in-Chief

The Buffalo Launch Club invites you to experience a celebration of yesteryear as the 45^th annual Antique and Classic Boat Show returns to Grand Island on Saturday, Sept. 7.

Presented by Niagara Frontier Antique & Classic Boats, together with the Chris-Craft Antique Boat Club, dozens of visiting members – along with some classic vessels – are expected, as the BLC joins in the 150^th anniversary celebration of this legendary boat maker.

Founded in 1874 by Christopher Columbus Smith, “Chris-Craft boats are defined by their handcrafted beauty, elegant design, stylish comfort and peak performance,” according to company testimonials.

“Very few companies have the privilege of prospering long enough to celebrate a 150^th anniversary,” said Stephen Heese, president of Chris-Craft. “It’s a testament to the vision of the founder of our company, Christopher Columbus Smith, and to the craftsmen before us who delivered unparalleled design and handcrafted beauty of Chris Craft boats. Since 1874, our boats have been beloved and passed down to generations of owners worldwide.”

Leading off with a 9:45 a.m. cannon salute, boating enthusiasts will be able to experience the old-world beauty of Chris-Crafts, both on land and in the water throughout the day at the Launch Club. Beyond the sightseeing, visitors can check out some remote-controlled model boats on the water, a nautical flea market on the grounds, and some neat historical items in the BLC Heritage Room.

The BLC said the newly completed replica longboat “Seneca Chief,” created by volunteer craftsmen from the Buffalo Maritime Center to mark the upcoming bicentennial of the Erie Barge Canal, would be yet another feature to check out. Public viewing and tours of this 73-foot long, 40-ton wooden replica open at 11 a.m. and continue to the show’s conclusion at 4 p.m.

Visitors will also be able to check out a number of visiting Chris-Crafts – the classics and newer models – both on land and in the water throughout the day at the BLC. A special program highlighting the 150-year history of this company, now known as the Chris-Craft Corp., will take place at 1 p.m.

Still more happenings to check out are a classic car show with prizes awarded; activities for the youngsters at the kids camp/field of dreams; and nautical goodies found in the BLC Ship’s Store. A basket raffle will take place with drawings starting at 3 p.m., and foods and beverages will be available for purchase throughout the day. The show concludes with an awards banquet for boat show participants.

The Buffalo Launch Club is located at 503 E. River Road. For more information on the 45^th annual Antique and Classic Boat Show, visit oldboatsbuffalo.org or the BLC at https://buffalolaunchclub.com.