Antique Outboard Motor Club to gather on Belle Isle this summer

Outboard motors are an important part of the recreational boating heritage of the Great Lakes. The Dossin Great Lakes Museum will highlight the history by hosting a gathering of the Antique Outboard Motor Club. Dozens of antique and classic outboard motors will be on display, with a focus on those manufactured by Waterman Marine Motor Co. and Caille Perfection Motor Co.- our hometown teams.

The world's first commercially viable outboard motor was invented and marketed by Grosse Ile resident Cameron B. Waterman in 1904. Until the advent of inexpensive outboard motors, power boating was a rich man's sport. Mr. Waterman's portable "Row Boat Motor," initially manufactured by Caille Brothers Co., put recreational boating within the reach of the common man. 

During the early decades of the 20th century, the "outboarding" craze sparked a boom in manufacturing; Michigan was once home to 33 outboard motor companies. One of the most successful was run by Detroiters Arthur and Adolph Caille from headquarters on Second Avenue. They produced their own brand of motors-notably the Red Head- as well as units for Sears and Montgomery Ward.

This event is being organized by the Great Lakes Chapter of the Antique Outboard Motor Club, Inc. Members from across North American will exhibit rare pieces, offer demonstrations and be available to answer visitor questions.