The New Hampshire Boat Museum (NHBM) will host the second Hulls and Hops Speaker Series event of the season on Thursday, August 21, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The featured speaker is Geoffrey Jones, a professional forester and U.S. Coast Guard veteran, who will share his firsthand account of a 1,200-mile kayak expedition along Canada’s Churchill River in 1968.
Jones, who grew up in southwestern New Hampshire, was 19 when he and two fellow University of New Hampshire students built homemade fiberglass kayaks and set out to retrace a historic fur trade route from Alberta to Hudson Bay. The group navigated remote rivers and lakes with only basic maps and a compass, facing both physical and emotional challenges along the way. The journey, which took more than two months, included a tragic accident in the Mountain Rapids section of the Churchill River.
During his presentation, Jones will discuss the planning and execution of the trip, the equipment used, and the broader historical context of the late 1960s. Attendees will have the opportunity to view a prototype kayak, original maps, and other expedition gear. Jones will also present a visual chronology of the journey and reflect on how the experience shaped his life and career.
“This event highlights the spirit of adventure and the connection to water that is central to our mission at NHBM,” said Programs Manager Anne Lennon. “Geoff’s story offers a unique perspective on exploration, resilience, and the ways in which our waterways have inspired generations.”
Notch will be the featured brewery for the evening, serving craft beer and light snacks. Amoskeag Beverages is the season sponsor for the Hulls and Hops Speaker Series.
Tickets for the event are $10 for NHBM members and $15 for nonmembers. Click here for more information about the event or to purchase tickets.
“This will be Geoff’s first time presenting on this experience in New Hampshire,” Lennon added. “We’re honored to have him share his powerful story at NHBM.”
About NHBM
Founded in 1992 by antique and classic boating enthusiasts, NHBM offers dynamic exhibits and engaging events and programs tailored to the diverse boating lifestyles and values of people of all ages. NHBM exhibits, events and programming covers everything from boat charters, boat trips and race boats to canoes, wooden boats, outboard motors, sculling, sailing sunfish, and Lyman and Johnson motors. Some of our hands-on programs take place on Lake Winnipesaukee. NHBM is sponsored in part by Home Comfort, North Water Marine, Goodhue Boat Company, Belletetes, Eastern Propane and Oil, Kingswood Press and Design Studios, and Watermark Marine.