Amelia Jean is a 1947 Chris-Craft 18' Deluxe Utility Boat (Hull Number U-18-267). She is powered by a 92 horsepower, 1947 Chrysler Ace Marine Engine (S-M26 - Engine #1243). There were 1186 boats of her hull type produced from 1947-1954. It is unknown exactly how many still exist today. She is currently undergoing restoration at the award-winning Lowell Boats in Greensboro, NC. Follow her progress HERE. Gary Lowell has recently been featured in O.Henry Magazine and Woody Boater. Take a look! 

While not everything is known about her past, here is what we do know... Amelia Jean was originally shipped to Marine Sports, Inc. in Syracuse, NY on July 31st, 1947. She Is believed to have spent nearly all her life on the freshwater rivers and lakes of New York State. She was most recently purchased at auction during the annual 2021 Antique Boat Museum Show & Auction in Clayton, NY. 

1947 Chris-Craft Deluxe Utility Boats represent a unique model year for a few distinct reasons. First of all, in 1947 that Chris-Craft was able to return to making the majority of their boats out of Mahogany. Wartime shortages and supply issues forced Chris-Craft to use cedar for boat building for several years during (and after) World War II. Originally, Amelia Jean was made out of both mahogany and cedar - Out of the factory her hull and decking were made of mahogany and her bottom (below the waterline) was made of cedar. After the restoration, her planking and decking (both in excellent condition) will remain the original Mahogany and her new bottom will be constructed out of Sapele, often referred to as African Mahogany. This particular wood is incredibly hard, durable, and highly resistant to rot. 

Additionally, Amelia Jean is powered by the legendary Chrysler Ace Marine Engine (M26), which can only be found in Chris-Crafts of this specific model year. The Deluxe Utility model was one of Chris-Craft's most popular boats and remains highly sought after today. After restoration, Amelia Jean will remain powered by her original, 1947 Chrysler Ace Marine Engine (S-M26 - Engine #1243).