Welcome to the Maritime Museum of Sandusky’s restoration project: Reviving Oscar Lay’s Gull – A Lyman Boat Works & Lay Brothers Story.
In the heart of Erie County, a historic gem is being meticulously restored to its former glory. Built by the renowned Lyman Boat Works, this pre-war 24-foot Lyman Custom Runabout with an all-weather hardtop holds a special place in maritime history. Constructed between 1937-1940, only three of these hand-built beauties remain in existence today. One of them was originally owned by Oscar Lay, Vice President of Lay Brothers Fisheries, a pioneer in the world of freshwater fisheries in the era. With a lap-strake hull, clinker-built with solid mahogany planks and powered by twin six-cylinder 103 horsepower Gray Marine Phantom engines, this vessel embodies craftsmanship and elegance. It’s a vessel that not only provided leisure boating for beautiful days on Lake Erie but was also uniquely fitted with triple iron skags, likely to navigate through the intricate waters of fishing nets.
Now under the stewardship of the Maritime Museum of Sandusky, this historic boat is undergoing a period-correct restoration by Classic Marine of Vickery, Ohio. Follow this remarkable project through our video series that will delve into the complexities and challenges of restoring a pre-war wooden Lyman boat, as well as the histories of Lyman and Lay Brothers. The restored boat will not only serve as an ambassador to the City of Sandusky but also represent the rich legacy of Great Lakes historic boat-building. Scheduled for completion in early to mid-summer 2025, this project is made possible through the generous support of private donations.
Join us on this journey of preservation and discovery. Watch the restoration unfold and consider supporting this endeavor through donations or volunteering. Together, let’s bring Oscar Lay’s Gull back to life and ensure that its story continues to inspire generations to come.