">
2013 Shannons Melbourne Winter Classic Auction
Lot
10

c1937 Shepherd 18ft Wooden Runabout 'Princess' with single axle Trailer

PASSED IN

Passed In

Specifications

Engine 221ci In-line 6 Cylinder Kermath
Body Work Wooden Runabout
Colour Polished Wood
Interior Cream
Trim Vinyl

Description

This lot is no longer available

A native of Beamsville, Ontario, Lloyd H. Shepherd was running the family business, Sheperd Body Works, in the early 1920s. Along with his son Howard he had a vision to expand the business into the boating industry. Thus, in 1928, Shepherd Boat Works was born. Quickly, Shepherd boats gained a reputation for exceedingly high quality and the business quickly grew, moving their premises to Niagra-on-the-Lake in 1939, their customer base extending to Europe. Upon Lloyd Shepherd's retirement, the business was sold to James Hahn in the 1950s. Now known as Shepherd Boats Limited, the company became Canada's largest inboard cruiser boat manufacturer with a vast dealer network. In 1966 the American Trojan Boat Company acquired Shepherd boats, the company soon dropping their runabout and cruiser lines-the boats that made them famous-in favour of larger models. They moved to still-larger premises in 1973, but soon after changing tastes in boating circles saw demand shrink. Finally, after 50 years in business, Shepherd ceased production in 1978.