Classic Wooden Rowboat to Benefit Mount Union Cemetery
CORVALLIS, Ore. – A pristine, handcrafted Catspaw Dinghy, lovingly built in the classic Whitehall style, is offered for sale to benefit one of Benton County’s most cherished historic sites: Mount Union Cemetery.
“This isn’t just a boat—it’s a piece of heirloom-quality craftsmanship,” said Bill Caffey, Sexton for the cemetery and member of the Mount Union Cemetery board. “Every plank tells a story of traditional boatbuilding. Now it can help write the next chapter for our pioneer cemetery.”
The 12-foot-2-inch wooden rowboat, named “Beau,” has spent nearly all its life garaged and has seen minimal time on the water, leaving it in flawless, like-new condition. Donated by a generous local enthusiast, the vessel features premium materials including mahogany marine plywood planks, Oregon white oak framing, copper rivets, bronze screws, and elegant Honduran mahogany brightwork finished in spar varnish. Its exterior gleams in traditional white marine paint, while cedar floor planks and a set of Shaw and Tenney 8-foot spruce oars with leather wraps complete the package. A purpose-built trailer is also included.
Mount Union Cemetery, a landmark near Corvallis honoring early Oregon settlers, requires ongoing maintenance, headstone preservation, and grounds upkeep. Proceeds from the sale will directly fund essential work on the grounds, including landscaping and maintenance for aging monuments. The cemetery association is an all-volunteer 501c-13 corporation. All work is done by volunteers. There are no paid staff.
Prospective buyers can obtain additional details and arrange viewing opportunities by calling or texting 541-974-2345, or by emailing mtunioncemetery@peak.org.
In a town that values its pioneer roots, “Beau” offers a rare chance to own a timeless classic while giving back to a cause that preserves Oregon’s past.
(Photos: The classic Catspaw Dinghy “Beau,” a handcrafted wooden rowboat in pristine condition, ready to find a new steward while supporting Mount Union Cemetery.)
Mount Union Historic Cemetery 