Stumpjumper: A One-Of-A-Kind Boat

Did you know?

April 6, 2020 – Reelfoot Lake is a local treasure, and it hosts many cultural, historical and scientific details unique to the region. One such unique point of interest is found in the stumpjumper.

This oddly named boat helps fishermen navigate the shallow waters of the lake and the cypress trees dotting its landscape. Immediately identifiable by its slim design, flat underside, and bow-facing oars, these boats jump from cypress to cypress, ferrying its passengers across.

Though there is an aura of mystery surrounding the boat’s original design, which first appeared around 150 years ago, we do know with some certainty who designed one of its most famous features. In the early days of navigating Reelfoot Lake, it was imperative that boaters knew exactly where they were going, making the usual oar design found in other boats rather useless.

However, in 1884, an Illinois native named Fred Allen patented an oar design that allowed the oarsman to face the direction they were moving. This allowed for easier navigation of the cypress trees which otherwise would have made Reelfoot Lake impassable. Since the late 1800s, many boat makers have added to the rich history of the stumpjumper, and to this day, one can still find them for sale to use in navigating the waters of Reelfoot Lake.

Learn more about stump jumpers when you visit the Regional Gallery at Discovery Park of America.

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