Types of canoes on Puget Sound

by T. T. (Thomas Talbot) Waterman

"Types of Canoes on Puget Sound" by T.T. Waterman and Geraldine Coffin is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This work explores the variety and specialization of dugout canoes used by Indigenous peoples in the Puget Sound region, providing insights into their design, cultural significance, and functionality. The book primarily serves as an ethnographic study focused on the canoes that played a crucial role in the maritime culture of these communities. In this publication, Waterman and Coffin categorize six distinct models of canoes commonly found on Puget Sound—namely the war canoe, freight canoe, trolling canoe, shovel-nose canoe, one-man canoe, and children's canoe. Each type is described in terms of its specific characteristics, purposes, and the cultural practices associated with its use. The authors also detail the native terms for various parts of the canoe and discuss the distribution of these canoe types within and beyond the Puget Sound region. Through rich descriptions and illustrations, the book emphasizes the technological sophistication and cultural relevance of canoe construction, underscoring the deep connection between the Indigenous peoples and their maritime environment.