Statues paying tribute to Gar Wood and Chris Smith

Harrison Township, MI – U.S. Congresswoman Candice Miller (MI-10) on Sunday, June 27th, keynoted the dedication of statues of Gar Wood and Chris Smith, well-known inventors, entrepreneurs and industrial giants in the boating community.

“In Algonac, our community came together to pay tribute to two of its most famous residents, Gar Wood and Chris Smith. These two men contributed greatly to the industry in America and made Algonac the powerboat capital of the world,” said Miller. “Wood and Smith inspired and touched the lives of many people in the community, the state of Michigan and throughout the world. These statues honoring their legacy are now placed at one of their favorite spots overlooking the St. Clair River where they will remain in remembrance for all they have done for our community and for their enduring legacy for boatbuilding excellence. I offer my thanks to Pete Beauregard Sr. and Herb Pocklington for having the vision and dedication to organizing this tribute honoring these two great men.”

Gar Wood and Chris Craft, both were inventors, entrepreneurs and industrial giants. Together, they built and raced boats, breaking records and dramatically advanced boating design. Ukrainian-born artist Sergei Mitrofanov was commissioned to create the statues.

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