Overview

In Building Kathy Ann, Robert Johnson shares the deeply personal and technically detailed story of building his custom steel-hulled boat from scratch in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Drawing on his lifetime of construction experience, family heritage in craftsmanship, and a love of Lake Superior, Johnson walks readers through every stage-from childhood inspiration, selecting materials, and designing the layout, to welding the hull and installing systems. The project took several years and was guided by a commitment to quality, safety, and sharing adventure with family. The Kathy Ann was more than a boat; it was a legacy built with help from friends and lessons passed down from his father and grandfather. Blending memoir and technical manual, the book celebrates perseverance, problem-solving, and the rewards of doing something by hand and heart. It is both a tribute to Northern heritage and a practical guide for any aspiring boat builder. ""Building Kathy Ann is a remarkable tribute to hands-on craftsmanship and perseverance. Robert Johnson takes readers on a heartfelt, detailed journey from blueprint to launch, transforming raw steel into a seaworthy vessel. His deep-rooted knowledge, patience, and problem-solving shine through every step. Blending memoir and manual, this book is both inspiring and informative-a true celebration of skill, legacy, and love for the Great Lakes. A must-read for makers, mariners, and dreamers alike."" Victor R. Volkman, Superior Reads From Modern History Press www.ModernHistoryPress.com

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Reviews

""Building Kathy Ann is a remarkable tribute to hands-on craftsmanship and perseverance. Robert Johnson takes readers on a heartfelt, detailed journey from blueprint to launch, transforming raw steel into a seaworthy vessel. His deep-rooted knowledge, patience, and problem-solving shine through every step. Blending memoir and manual, this book is both inspiring and informative-a true celebration of skill, legacy, and love for the Great Lakes. A must-read for makers, mariners, and dreamers alike."" Victor R. Volkman, Superior Reads

Author Information

Robert Johnson is a lifelong craftsman, builder, and resident of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. With decades of experience in residential and commercial construction, he combined his skills and passion for the Great Lakes to undertake the ambitious project of building Kathy Ann, a steel-hulled trawler designed for Lake Superior's demanding conditions. Drawing inspiration from his Finnish and Swedish heritage, Robert's work reflects a deep respect for tradition, utility, and craftsmanship. When he's not on the water, he enjoys restoring historic structures, spending time with his family, and sharing his knowledge of building and boating with future generations.

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