Converting a historic building into an educational resource.

From its construction in 1945, the Eddon Boat Building in Gig Harbor has served as a working boat shop for the waterfront community. It was here that the first Thunderbird class sailboat was constructed, revolutionizing small boat building. The City of Gig Harbor acquired a State Heritage Grant to help restore and maintain the existing structures on site. Improvements include structural, electrical, plumbing, and sewer upgrades, as well as the addition of sprinklers and accessible restrooms. Operated by the non-profit organization, Gig Harbor BoatShop, the building is also an educational site: visitors can watch boat building from an observation platform in the shape and dimension of the Thunderbird sailboat invented there. An exhibit space, gift shop, and administrative office occupy the original lofting floor.