I have an old 12’ magnesium boat built around 1949 or 1950 by Starcraft.
Dow Chemical's boat division was purchased by Star Tank & Boat Company which ultimately became Starcraft Boats of Goshen, IN. According to an article in the January 1949 issue of "The Boating Industry" Star said it would eliminate the Dowcraft name.
Dow Chemical began searching for everyday uses for magnesium that was being produced for the war effort. Magnesium boats were 1/3rd less weight than aluminum boats. A 12 1/2 ft. row/motor boat weighed 75 pounds.
I'm thinking this boat could be one of the earliest after Starcraft bought the Dowcraft line. I’m guessing 1949 or 50. They only made magnesium boats for a little over a year before going aluminum, from what I’ve read.
If it wasn’t for people taking the time to post their findings I would be completely lost. I thank you all for your hard work. This has been a very difficult boat to research. I’m thinking there’s not many of these around.
Here's some more pics. You can still see the faded logo "Magnesium Starcraft" if you look close. Original ores too!
Dow Chemical's boat division was purchased by Star Tank & Boat Company which ultimately became Starcraft Boats of Goshen, IN. According to an article in the January 1949 issue of "The Boating Industry" Star said it would eliminate the Dowcraft name.
Dow Chemical began searching for everyday uses for magnesium that was being produced for the war effort. Magnesium boats were 1/3rd less weight than aluminum boats. A 12 1/2 ft. row/motor boat weighed 75 pounds.
I'm thinking this boat could be one of the earliest after Starcraft bought the Dowcraft line. I’m guessing 1949 or 50. They only made magnesium boats for a little over a year before going aluminum, from what I’ve read.
If it wasn’t for people taking the time to post their findings I would be completely lost. I thank you all for your hard work. This has been a very difficult boat to research. I’m thinking there’s not many of these around.
Here's some more pics. You can still see the faded logo "Magnesium Starcraft" if you look close. Original ores too!
