Ep.94: Lowell's Boat Shop

Ep.94: Lowell's Boat Shop

From Around the Buoy by Around the Buoy

July 10, 2025 · 1h 32m

About this episode

The episode features an interview with Graham McKay discussing the historical significance and modern relevance of Lowell's Boat Shop.

Lowell's Boat shop has been located on the banks of the Merrimack River in Amesbury Ma. since 1793 and they are credited as the birthplace of the iconic fishing dory. With over 250,000 constructed over two centuries, the dory played a vital role in America's fishing industry because they were solidly built, inexpensive, could be stacked on deck and most importantly, they could be safely loaded down with a huge catch. Although, they no longer building dories commercially, the role that Lowell's Boat Shop plays in the modern world is no less important by teaching the techniques and skills to a new crop of boat builders. After seven generations of the shop being owned by a Lowell, Graham McKay has been entrusted in keeping the boat shop's legacy alive. In this episode, we sit down with Graham to discuss the historical significance of Lowell's Boat Shop and why it is relevant in today's world.

People in this episode

Guest: Graham McKay

Topics covered

  • boat building
  • fishing industry
  • historical significance
  • craftsmanship
  • legacy

Keywords

  • Lowell's Boat Shop
  • fishing dory
  • Merrimack River
  • boat builders
  • Graham McKay

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Lowell's Boat Shop

Places: Amesbury Ma, Merrimack River

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