The 62nd annual Boothbay Harbor Windjammer Days will take place on Sunday, June 23 through Saturday, June 29. This year we will celebrate our local boatbuilders and shipwrights. Please visit boothbayharborwindjammerdays.org for the full schedule of events.

Hi, I'm Fred Bowers. I live here in Alna with my lovely wife Mary and assorted pets and livestock.

First off, I should explain that I feel somewhat like an imposter when compared to the many professional boat builders in the region. Professional I'm not, (though we often jest about our "Alna Iron Works," AIW, not to be confused with the little outfit in Bath, BIW) but totally amateur, relying a lot on advice from the many "pros" who have coached me through the process. I hope that by writing this, I'm saluting the many
fellow backyard boat builders hereabouts.

I've built several small boats over the years, but nothing as massive as my little steel schooner, Sycamore, which was built in my backyard over a period of 16 years on Sunday afternoons, with Mary's help and
forbearance.

Just a note to anybody contemplating such a building project: If you merely "want a boat," don't do it! Simply spend the same time saving-up money and buy one. Building a boat is a hobby in itself, requiring a crazy passion, and very satisfying!

We hope to see everyone at Windjammer Days!