Identify an Old Houseboat - is there identification numbers on older house boats?

by Vince Holmes
(Deerfield, Wisconsin)

Looking at an older houseboat, and I can't find any identification numbers to help me identify the manufacturer or builder.

I recently saw a derelict houseboat at a local marina. I find it's lines to be very pleasing to my eyes. Not your typical box on platform style.

I am hoping that someone can help identify the manufacture or any other data on it. I see no markings of any sort on the hull or superstructure.

Thanks for any help, Vince.

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Reply - Answer
Well Vince, you have definitely found an older looking houseboat, and from the picture, I am going to venture and say that it is a steel Kelly model from the late 60's or early 70's.

When it comes to serial numbers, or HIN (hull identification numbers) I believe that identification system came into play in the 70's.

You can generally find the numbers on the transom, yet I have had some houseboats where the numbers were stamped or affixed on various areas of the hull.

On newer or new houseboats, you'll find the HIN, MIC numbers on the starboard side of the transom. With those numbers you can find and track a houseboats history and manufacturer.

You will find the following article of interest in deciphering houseboat hull numbers and history.



Lastly, hopefully some of our readers will share and post comments about their identifying houseboats, and their HIN number experiences. Feel free to use the "Click here to post comments." link found near the bottom of this page.


Thanks again for sharing, IAN from all-about-houseboats

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