Lake Effect

The History of Matthews Boats

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In this episode, James checks in with 92-year-old Bob Reynolds, whose grandfather founded the Matthews Boat Company on a little creek in Seneca County but whose boats and yachts became treasured possessions for people around the world. The company also launched wooden boats for the Allies in both world wars. Unfortunately, the advent of fiberglass boats in the 1960s spelled the end for Matthews.

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Photo

Photo by James Proffitt

Meet Your Host James Proffitt

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James Proffitt moved north from Cincinnati to Marblehead in 2007 and says he’d never leave the lake. After nearly a decade as a Gannett reporter/photographer he’s now a freelance writer and the Lake Erie contributor for Detroit Public Television’s website, greatlakesnow.org. He writes about all things Lake Erie including conservation, recreation, wildlife, art and current events. His verse and fiction have appeared in numerous university and literary journals over the years. He looks forward to meeting new people and exploring their affinity for the lake through proximity, labor or simple love.   

Thank You

Voices Around Us® is supported in part by American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds allocated by the City of Toledo and the Lucas County Commissioners and administered by The Arts Commission.

Voices Around Us Podcast