By Kate Bartlett
The Chautauqua Lake Twin Tier (CLTT) Annual Antique Boat Show is a summer celebration of classic and vintage boating held at the Bemus Point Village Park and Casino docks on Chautauqua Lake. This year the show will take place next Saturday, June 27, with a welcome event for attendees on Friday, June 26. It has become a beloved regional event that features beautifully restored wooden and fiberglass boats, displayed both in the water and on land, and a lively, community-focused festival atmosphere.
David Wesp, past President and current Vice President of CLTT, has been involved with the Boat Show since its inception 20 years ago. The event started to gather boat lovers and the community in celebration of the deep-rooted history of boating in this area. “Boating on Chautauqua Lake dates to the1800’s with approximately 12 boat builders around the lake,” explains David. “The Boat Show is a great opportunity to celebrate the history of boating and view beautifully restored antique boats.” both on the lake.”
Boat Shows around the country are sponsored by chapters formed under the direction of the Antique and Classic Boat Society, ACBS. After initially joining forces with the North Coast OH chapter to host boat shows on Chautauqua Lake, local boaters were inspired to form their own ACBS chapter (CLTT) in the fall of 2006. “We continue to show support to other regional chapters, including North Coast OH, Niagara Frontier (Buffalo), and Finger Lakes Wine Country, but now focus our resources and energy on growing and maintaining our local boating community.”
This year’s event will take place on Saturday, June 27 from 9am-4pm and will feature a variety of boats showcased both in water and on land, including Chris Craft, Century and Lone Star. Vendors and Local marinas will be on site including Holiday Harbor and Snug Harbor. The show includes a “Field of Dreams,” featuring boats for sale, a Ship Store and the popular Basket Raffle at the Casino Dock.
The CLTT Boat Show attracts visitors from across the state and across state boundaries. “We welcome visitors and boaters alike from across state lines from Ohio, Pennsylvania and all over New York State,” says David. “We are proud to showcase Chautauqua Lake and celebrate with the local community and visitors alike. It’s a great opportunity to connect with fellow boaters and celebrate our passion for the water.”
In David’s opinion, the CLTT celebrates bringing boaters brought together from all walks of life to celebrate the history and common love for recreation on the lake. “We all love to be on the water and celebrate the summer season on the lake. Whether fishing, sporting, watching the sunset or relaxing with family and friends, we all share the common love of boating.”
For more information visit cltt-acbs.org. or email David Wesp at wildwildwesp@gmail.com. and stop down to the boat show on Saturday, June 27 from 9am-4pm. See you at the show!