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Phil Spencer founded his company, Lakes Region Restorations Inc in 1982, based on a love for wooden boats, and a keen interest in antique mahogany runabouts. Over the years, Phil has been devoted to thoughtful restoration of clients' boats by using traditional methods combined with the best and most current products available.
Phil grew up in Minnesota, on Lake Minnetonka, where his love of boats first developed. As a young boy, he sailed crew in many competitive “rag boat” races, but was especially inspired by a family friend’s antique runabout collection. He was constantly drawing boats and building models, and by the age of 16 had built an iceboat and a small pram.
The Lake Winnipesaukee region became home to Phil’s family in 1973. In 1978, Phil began attending The Landing School of Boatbuilding & Design in Kennebunkport, ME - a two year program - where he had the opportunity to cruise the Maine Coast in several boats that were built by the school. Among these was a Sparkman & Stevens-design sloop that served as a final school project for Phil and three of his fellow classmates.
Phil’s love for antique runabouts, however, remained deeply engrained during his time at the school. Upon graduation, he transferred his skills in boat woodworking and design to the antique & classic runabout realm.
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Lakes Region Restorations has restored nearly every model of Chris Craft runabout, as well as several 25’ & 27’ Gar Wood models and numerous other types of fine watercraft. The “Keen Kutter,” a 36’ 1913 Goodhue and Hawkins laker (1, left) was a quite noteworthy project as an extensive 3-year restoration. “ Care Naught,” a very rare 1930 26’ Aeolian Gentleman’s Race boat (2, left) is another example of Phil’s fine workmanship.
In addition to the full scope of restoration-related services that Lakes Region Restorations offers, Phil decided in 1996, that it was time to design and build his own mahogany speedboats. Out of his vision came the luxurious, fun and fast Gryphon R-19 & R-23. These beautiful contemporary classics possess the beauty of an impeccably restored vintage watercraft, with the convenience of a dependable, modern power-plant, the finest of instruments, and rich amenities.
Phil has been a dedicated member of the New England Chapter of the Antique & Classic Boat Society since 1982. He has served as a judge, as well as Chief Judge for many years, for the Annual Antique & Classic Boat Show held on Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire. He is honored to have previously served as chapter President for two years.
Since 2000, Phil has served on the Board of Trustees of The New Hampshire Boat Museum, where he has volunteered for many of the museum’s events. Currently, Phil serves on the Board of Acquisitions, where he helps to find interesting and appropriate additions to the museum’s collection. |
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