About Us
Our Amazing Volunteer Leadership
Deb Schoman, Executive Director
Northeast
Phil Dress
Great Lakes
Bob Galeota, Jr.
Lake St. Clair & St. Clair River
Randy Hart, Treasurer
Great Lakes
Fred Lemerand
Great Lakes
Randy Mueller
Pacific NW
Cliff Wolfe
Great Lakes
Our history
In 1890, during a time of experimentation with gasoline engines and sail-powered boats, Scott J. Matthews founded THE MATTHEWS BOAT COMPANY in his Bascom, Ohio basement. By 1906, the company had moved to Port Clinton, Ohio, to access deep-water facilities for larger boat production. Renamed THE MATTHEWS COMPANY, it gained fame for its high-quality boats.
During World War I, the company was notable for timely delivery of 110' sub chasers. In 1924, they introduced the MATTHEWS “38,” a stock-built boat designed to ensure year-round employment for workers. World War II saw the production of various landing craft, and during Prohibition, the company built fast boats for both rum runners and the U.S. Coast Guard.
After over 70 years of building custom boats until 1924 and stock boats thereafter, the Matthews family sold the company in 1965. The new owner maintained the company's high standards but faced declining demand due to economic factors. THE MATTHEWS COMPANY ceased operations in January 1975, after producing its last boat in 1974.
In October 1977, Long Island Matthews boat owners formed THE MATTHEWS BOAT OWNERS ASSOCIATION to preserve the legacy of these classic boats. Incorporated in 1978 as a non-profit under New York State laws, the association connects former and current Matthews' owners through research and outreach. Today, it boasts members from over 21 states and Canada, covering boats from 1904 to 1974. The association provides updates through a LOG newsletter. Members of the association receive bi-annual LOG newsletters, a roster of members, Matthews' merchandise, and the opportunity to list boats/parts for sale. Our extensive archival collection is maintained by the Antique Boat Museum, Clayton, NY. Anyone interested in an interactive discussion format regarding Matthews boats can join the Matthews' Facebook page and view postings on Instagram.
The Matthews Boat Owners Association seeks to continue to grow and foster a community dedicated to this "endangered species", the Matthews boat.
Our mission
The Matthews Boat Owners Association (MBOA, a non-profit corporation) is for past and present MATTHEWS owners and for those who simply love and appreciate the Matthews marque. The Association is devoted to perpetuating MATTHEWS history, respect for a classic boat, and to serve as a clearing house for MATTHEWS BOATS, and club news devoted to the history of the MATTHEWS COMPANY.