Ralph, a 4th generation blacksmith began building canoes for his scouts in his father's blacksmith shop. His passion for canoes, the natural workld and history led to the creation of "the most unusual canoe shop in the US". He creatyed a line of legendary cruising canoes called the Canadienne and builds replicas of historic birchbark canoes up to 34 feet in length. He sells and installs sailing rigs on canoes and kayaks. He does custom installations of carriers on cars. He has done numerous historical reenactments with his canoes and has built them for films such as Centennial, Prairie Tides and Dennis, the Menace. Google his name to see the scope of his activity. He is now looking for someone to take over and continue the service he has provided the paddling community over the years.