In both cases, the course was offered through a unique collaboration with master boat builder David Melvin, owner of Black Mountain Canoes. Most of the work was completed at Mr. Melvin’s shop downtown. In addition to building the canoe, students also constructed their own paddles during the course of the spring semester.
Dr. Dottie Shuman, Chair of the Outdoor Education Department, says, “The canoe building class is a wonderful opportunity for our students to gain unique hands-on experience in canoe craft. Not only do students learn skills of using hand tools, working with wood and building a canoe but they also have the opportunity to be a part of a team of 19 people working toward a final goal, although all 19 people never work together at the same time. There are so many lessons learned along the way…wonderful connections between their own growth in Christ and the ‘growth’ of the canoe.”
Since the costs of the canoe have already been covered by Montreat College trustee Dick Query, the proceeds of the sale of this canoe will go towards final building costs of the challenge course and to support the Outdoor Education department. The canoe is being sold for $6000; if a buyer purchases it for more than that amount, it will count as a donation.