1950s Sears Runabout �� w motor/trailer $1299!
Remember??/ Hell yes I remember
The Boat pictured was an Arkansas traveler build with an Elgin outboard motor. Arkansas traveler was the Chevy of boats often equipped with Scot Atwater outboards. This Sears version was simply rebadged.
Sears Roebuck brought recreational boating to the general public as they sold 'em by the thousands
At one time Chrysler marine owned Elgin Motors and had boats badged Chrysler built by LoneStar. I still own a 55 HP and a 100HP Chrysler motor
I worked at a JCCA summer camp in the 60's teaching water skiing/sailing/canoeing. We had a fleet of four of those boats as pictured in the ad. I also was the mechanic who had to keep things running. The Elgin motors were crap.
I convinced the camp director to switch motors to 40 HP Johnsons in 1965. By 1967 we had tri-hull "bass boats" with pedestal steering. With a rear facing bow seat and low gunnels, they were ideal for teaching waterski sports. The rear facing observer made it safe for the skipper and skier. Plus they kept the bow down for faster "out of the hole"achievement of plane.
That said, the Arkansas travelers repowered with Johnson 28's were used as chase boats on our Lake of the Ozarks canoe'rs for years. Well built tough little boats.
Thanks for reminding me of the best summers of my youth.