What is on my planks? Mysterious 'paint' on planking.

Brian J Knudsen

Enthusiastic about Wooden Canoes
Hello,

I have an old Otca. I removed a section of canvas two days ago and discovered that there is a white outline about 3" wide along the cedar planks around the canoe, along the gunwales & stem. I'll post a picture. I don't know why it is there or even really what it is. Any ideas? Good health to all.

IMG_0582.jpeg

Brian Knudsen
 
I don't have any evidence for this but I always assumed this was white lead, applied to protect against rot. Happy to hear if someone knows for sure. It's not on all canoes, not even all Old Towns.
 
Is it worth a trip to the hardware store, to buy a lead testing kit? That might provide an easy answer...
 
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