Tracing their roots directly to Native American dugout canoes, log sailing canoes are unique to the Chesapeake Bay. Since 2018, the Silver Heel Foundation has helped to preserve this special heritage.
Our Mission
The Silver Heel Foundation maintains the Chesapeake Bay log sailing canoe Silver Heel. Built in 1902 as a working craft, she now races each summer in the log canoe summer sailing series up and down the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Our crew of volunteers are active participants in a living history that we aim to preserve, promote, and share.
How we make our impact
SHF races Silver Heel in the annual log canoe summer sailing series.
SHF preserves Silver Heel, one of approximately 15 traditional log canoes that remain in sailing shape to present day.
SHF educates K-12 students on the rich history of log canoes and how they have helped to shape the unique culture of the Chesapeake for centuries.
SHF participates in events throughout the Eastern Shore to spread awareness of Silver Heel and log canoe preservation.
SHF promotes best practices for safety at sea and leads efforts to improve safety practices on log canoes.