Shaw & Tenney

– Maine Made Since 1858 –
At Shaw & Tenney we are committed to hand-crafting the world’s finest wooden oars and paddles. As the second oldest manufacturer of marine products in the United States we continue building our legacy through time-honored traditional craftsmanship. We make our products just as we did in 1858 – to last a lifetime.

The culmination of over 150 years of experience isn’t something that can be weighed or measured. Rather, it’s something that’s felt and experienced. Whether you are paddling with a cherry Penobscot paddle, rowing with a pair of ultra-light spoons, or admiring an engraved paddle on the wall at camp, nothing feels, performs or matches the beauty of handcrafted solid wood.

Our craftsmen are artists and everything we make reflects a passion for excellence. We are all proud to carry on the Shaw & Tenney tradition, handcrafted in Orono, Maine USA since 1858.

– The Early Years –
Shaw & Tenney has operated in the same small town in Maine for its entire history.

In 1858, the Orono Manufacturing Company began making oars and paddles using water-powered machinery in a shop on the banks of the Stillwater River. Shaw & Tenney was formed in the 1890’s when Frank Tenney merged Orono Manufacturing with the Boston-based George Shaw Company.

With the advent of electricity the company moved into a new facility on Main Street. In 1950 Shaw & Tenney relocated to its current location on Water Street and remained under the ownership of the Tenney family until the 1970’s.

In 1978, the company was purchased by Paul and Helen Reagan who broadened the product line and expanded Shaw & Tenney into the retail marketplace.

– Shaw & Tenney Today –
In 2003, Nancy and Steve Holt became the third family to own the company. They expanded the product line to include boat hooks, masts, spars, and flagpoles. They also brought the company into the world of digital commerce.

In July of 2024, we became just the fourth family to own Shaw and Tenney. We are stewards of the Shaw & Tenney brand – through an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, materials, and customer service that’s second to none.

Today we make our products using much of the same machinery we did in 1858. Our skilled craftsmen, the lumber, and our commitment to quality are what makes Shaw and Tenney so special. While perfection is the goal, if a product has any defect our craftspeople are empowered to call it a “second.”

Everyone here at Shaw & Tenney is passionate about our craft and being on the water. We love what we do.