Matinicus Double-ender

Jim (Jimbo) Luton is a meticulous cabinetmaker from Brooklyn, New York. Watching him build his double-ended peapod is a marvel. Not only does he pay particular attention to detail, but he shares it with us in a thorough, concise manner.

Last time we checked in with Jim was a couple years ago, so if you haven't stopped by Small Craft Warning recently, you will find he's putting the finishing touches on what might be the prettiest peapod I've ever seen.

Historically, the clinker or lapstrake planked double-enders were a vessel that adapted well to various interpretations in design. They were flexible enough to accommodate the materials at hand. Each region produced it’s own particular boat and the builder’s molds would be passed down through generations.

The original design for the Matinicus Double-ender was built by the Young family on Matinicus Island for generations. Walter Simmons, a Lincolnville, Maine boatbuilder adapted the Young's peapod for modern construction.

A Maine traditional fishing vessel, the peapod was once found all over the state’s rugged sea coast. Dating back to the late nineteenth century, the peapod was used in the lobster fishery to haul traps while others served as lighthouse keeper's boats, as well as many other working tasks on the waterfront.

Jim recently put together an account of his winter shop activities:

"My latest chores on this boat project have been to complete the rudder assembly, including tiller, tiller extension, and rudder blade, plus the daggerboard."

Sounds simple enough, but wait 'till you see what he's done.

Thanks to Jim for the photos and access to his shop for a virtual tour.

Well done, my friend!