“Frozen in Time: A Wooden and Antique Boat Showcase” is a new temporary exhibit now open at the National Museum of the Great Lakes in Toledo, Ohio. The exhibit focuses on wooden and antique boats, offering visitors a glimpse into the craftsmanship and beauty of both, with a selection of both historic and newly hand-built watercraft ranging from Indigenous canoe design to wooden cruisers that reveal how design, leisure and regional identity have shaped vessels over time.
“Wooden boats are timeless works of art,” says NMGL Director Emeritus Chris Gillcrist. “They reflect the creativity of their builders, the spirit of adventure of their owners, and the enduring connection people have with the Great Lakes. The exhibition is an opportunity to step back in time while celebrating craftsmanship that continues to inspire today.”
The temporary exhibit opened on December 5, 2025, and will remain open to the public through February 15, 2025. To learn more, visit nmgl.org.

