Info 1956 Berglund

[AndreasJordahlRhude]

Re: Info 1956 Berglund

There might be some Berglund information in the "Classic Library" section of www.fiberglassics.com. Yup, they have wooden boat information there in addition to fiberglass.

There may be a chapter of the Antique Outboard Motor Club (www.aomci.org) in Iowa/Illinois along the mighty Mississippi.

Andreas

[PamMonson]

Re: Info 1956 Berglund

My name is Al Black. My father was Bob Berglund's partner in the manufacturing company Berglund and Black Boat Co. I worked part time in the factory from about 1954 to about 1960 when the production of Berglunds ceased. I don't have any paperwork to answer questions re serial numbers, models, etc., but would be glad to answer any questions that I can.
Al

Al, I'm working on a story for the Wilmington paper about Berglund and Black boats and would love to talk to you. Please call Pam at The Free Press Advocate, 815-476-7966.

[alannie]

Re: Info 1956 Berglund

Ed, glad to know that there are still some Berglund beauties still afloat. My dad was Berglund's partner and I worked there during the entire span of their manufacturing business. Would be glad to chat with you or correspond by email if you so desire. Email is [email protected]

I too have just become the owner of a 1959 Berglund. Slightly different model ( more gauges bells and whistles) but same two-tone exterior wood. As far as value, my insurance agent contacted wood boat specialty insurer Haggerty. While they were not specifically familiar with Berglunds, they were comfortable insuring the boat only at $4000.
This boat has not been in the water for 37 years but luckily had good dry storage the whole time. The only thing I've done so far is remove the inside floor decking to inspect and clean the bottom from the inside. So far so good.
This is my first wooden boat but have always admired their classic beauty. Hopefully it will be cruising Pool 19 on the Mississippi River next summer. When the restoration gets under way, I'll start my own thread because I know I will have lots of questions and post lots of pictures.
To Al and Dan, I'm sure I'll be in contact because I'd like to know as much as possible about the history of the company. They sure made a beautiful boat.
Step 1 is getting the Mercury Mark 78A off the back and trying to bring it back to life. Don't know if I want the headaches with this motor but it is good looking and I'll try to keep everything as original as possible.

Ed Kircher Keokuk, Iowa

[ehenry]

Re: Info 1959/60 Berglund

Al & Dan,My Grandfather bought this boat new in Upstate New York around 1960. Always thought it was a 61' model until reading this thread. Was 1960 the last year of production? I would love to see more of these wonderful boats if you have any photos. Thanks, EarlWhitneyhttp://www.photoshop.com/users/eliwh...f0913381576a12

[elkdds]

Re: Info 1956 Berglund

Al, Glad to hear from you. Haven't started much restoration yet but the old Merc did fire up. I'm sure I'll have some questions for you about the history of the company. They sure made a beautiful boat. Thanks for replying. Ed

[Ethansmith46373]

Re: Info 1956 Berglund

Hey all...does anyone what the Golden colored wood on the Berglund/Black boats is?

[johngsandusky]

Re: Info 1956 Berglund

Hi Ethan, welcome aboard!
Some pictures might help identify the wood.

[Garret]

Re: Info 1956 Berglund

Hey all...does anyone what the Golden colored wood on the Berglund/Black boats is?

Chris Craft used bleached mahogany for their golden colored sections.