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In his element, shaping ours. PHOTO: FROM THE COLLECTION OF KIRK WIPPER
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Kirk Wipper BROUGHT CANOEING TO LIFE
Kirk Wipper’s contribution to paddling goes much deeper than most will ever recognize. He is forever embedded in canoe culture—a figure instrumental in establishing the canoe as a symbol of heritage and significance in the eyes of people everywhere. An educator at heart, Wipper founded the
Kanawa International Museum of Canoes, Kayaks and Rowing Craft in the mid ‘50s after a friend presented him with a dugout canoe made in the late 1800s. It didn’t take long for the museum to become the world’s largest col- lection of watercraft. In 1957 the fleet became known as the Canadian Canoe Museum, which today boasts nearly 600 canoes and kayaks that reflect the history of paddlesports worldwide. “Heritage is the handmaiden of conserva-
tion,” Wipper once said. “That’s what I believe.” For him, “An interest in the wilderness means getting there. And getting there means ca-
noes.” On his tireless mission to bring the ca- noe alive for paddlers everywhere, Wipper worked closely with late icons Bill Mason and former Prime Minster Pierre Trudeau. His passion for the history of canoeing was
matched by his determination to shape its fu- ture. In 1971, Wipper co-founded the Canadian Recreational Canoeing Association, known to- day as Paddle Canada. His emphasis on collab- oration to develop a strong, capable paddling community remains the vision of the organi- zation to this day. “Many have been knowingly inspired by Kirk,” says current Paddle Canada President Blair Doyle. “Many more are still un- wittingly reaping the benefits of his impact on environmental conservation, canoeing heri- tage and paddlesports.” Wipper was named a Fellow of Explorers In-
ternational and was recognized with The Order of Canada in 2002. He died in March, leaving an unparalleled legacy, laying the foundation for a generation of canoeists who now share his affinity for the sport. “You have to do what you can,” Wipper said, “do your best with what you are. And you have to believe in wilderness. If you do that you can’t go wrong.” —Michael Mechan
[ STAFF TIP ] DON’T FORGET THE FLOSS
Tree branches, knives and other sharp objects can be catastrophic for a tent fly, tarp or canoe pack. I keep a container of dental floss in my repair kit for such unfortunate occasions. Floss works perfectly as a tough thread substitute for stitching up nylon or canvas. It’s easy to tie off and holds until you get back to civilization for a permanent repair. Pre-thread a needle and tape it to the inside of the lid so you don’t have to mess around in an already high-strung situation. —Tanya MacGregor, Special Projects
10 EARLY SUMMER 2011
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