About Our Chapter

The Adirondack Chapter of the Antique & Classic Boat Society (ACBS) is a 501c3 tax exempt organization. We are not only one of the oldest chapters, but rich with history dating back to the origins of ACBS.

The Adirondack Chapter is based in upstate New York, with coverage from the Lake George and Capital District regions west through the Adirondack Park.  The chapter comprises about 250 members.  We host two rendezvous style boat shows each season; the Fulton Chain Rendezvous in Old Forge in early July and the Lake George Rendezvous naturally at Lake George in late August.

There are typically two workshops, spring and fall, which are often hosted at local boat restoration shops or boat builders.  In addition to workshops, we also have fun events like Keels or Wheels dinner gatherings, Poker Runs and outings to different locations in the area. Please check our season calendar for a full list of events.

Chapter board meetings are held via Zoom teleconferencing 3 times a year and all members are welcome to attend and participate.

An annual board meeting and dinner is in the Fall and multiple awards are given out.  The chapter subsidizes the cost of meals at shows and the annual dinner.

The Fourth Watch is our newsletter that is published approximately four times a year. Additionally, our First Watch email is sent monthly to keep you current on upcoming events.

A listing and contact information for the current officers and directors is also available.

—–  Brief Chapter History  —–

Many would assume that the Adirondack Chapter was the first chapter of ACBS, since ACBS was formed at Lake George in 1975, but that is incorrect.

The first two chapters of ACBS – Lake Hopatcong and New England – were formed by March of 1976.  The goal of ACBS National, as it was known then, was to spread the word about antique & classic boating by continuing to create chapters.  While ACBS was technically based in Lake George, the Adirondack Chapter was created in January 1977 making it the third ACBS chapter.  Bill Willig was appointed acting President until the first official chapter meeting in March 1977 at which point Larry Reynolds was voted in as first elected President. ACBS has since grown into the largest society in the world dedicated to the preservation and enjoyment of historic, antique and classic boats. We embrace all styles of classic boats whether they are wood, fiberglass or metal with over 13,000 members and 54 Chapters.

As ACBS National took a more centralized management role over the chapters, the Lake George Rendezvous became an Adirondack Chapter event.  The first LG Rendezvous was held in the summer of 1974 and now 49 years later, is one of the most popular chapter events.

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