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The origin of Nor-Son's remarkable artisanry unfolded on the waterfront

Explore how the Anderson family's affection for vintage and historical watercraft laid the foundation for Nor-Son Custom Builder's reputable history of artisanship.

The extraordinary crafting heritage of Nor-Sontrace its roots back to maritime origins
The extraordinary crafting heritage of Nor-Sontrace its roots back to maritime origins

The origin of Nor-Son's remarkable artisanry unfolded on the waterfront

In the heart of the Brainerd Lakes community, Nor-Son Custom Builders, owned by the Anderson family, is renowned for its commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and stewardship. This ethos is not only reflected in their luxurious legacy homes but also in their collection of antique and classic boats.

Recently, the Antique & Classic Boat Society (ACBS) held an International Show on Gull Lake, and the Anderson family was at the forefront of the event. The week-long show attracted hundreds of enthusiasts and their prized boats from various lakes across the U.S. and Canada.

The highlight of the show was the Woods & Water II event, where the Anderson family hosted an exclusive fundraising gala for the ACBS. The evening was a testament to the family's passion for preserving these historical watercrafts.

The Anderson family's love for wooden boats dates back to 1943, when they bought their first cabin on Nisswa Lake. Over the years, they have rescued and restored many wooden boats that are over a century old. One of their most notable acquisitions is Tolka, a 1928 limousine boat built in Alexander Graham Bell's lab.

Lee Anderson, a familiar figure on Gull Lake, often seen operating one of their watercrafts, inherited his love for wooden boats from his father. In 1985, his father bought a 19-foot Chris-Craft Sportsman boat and named it Katharine. Another significant addition to their collection is Baby Bootlegger, a two-time winner of the American Power Boat Association (APBA) Gold Cup Races.

The collection at the Anderson compound is unique, with each boat being the only one of its kind in existence. The family takes their boats out on the lake and uses them as intended, requiring a higher level of commitment and craftsmanship than preserving them for display only.

The evening hosted by the Anderson family during the show was one of its highlights. Guests were treated to Champagne, a special cocktail, and a celebration of the 100th birthday of Baby Bootlegger, a 1924 mahogany runabout. The event also showcased classic cars, rare Native American artifacts, and other treasures, making it a night to remember.

Nor-Son Custom Builders, with its commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and stewardship, shares the Andersons' passion for preservation. The company combines science with artistry to create homes that will last for generations, much like the family's dedication to preserving these historical watercrafts.

The ACBS fundraising dinner reflected the Andersons' commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and stewardship, similar to Nor-Son's approach. The event was a testament to the family's dedication to preserving the past while looking towards the future, ensuring these historical watercrafts continue to sail on Gull Lake for generations to come.

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