Woodwright Brewing Company

CLARKIE MILLS & THE DUNEDIN WOODWRIGHT SHOP:

The plaque placed on the front of our Dunedin Woodwright Shop by the City Of Dunedin reads:

In 1947, the first Optimist Pram Boat was built by Clark “Clarkie” Mills (1915-2001) in this building. Inspired by the soap box derby races, Clarkie came up with the design of an inexpensive boat for children to build at home and be able to operate and sail in races. The original 8 foot long and 4 foot wide wooden pram had on sail, was stable in the water, and simple to navigate.

Clarkie donated the pram design and patent rights to the Optimist Club, and this same design is still in use today throughout the world. The original 12 wooden prams delivered to the Dunedin Boat Club were built in this shop.