Chris-Craft has long been synonymous worldwide with stylish, well-constructed wooden (and now fiberglass) boats, the first one built by company founder Christopher C. Smith when he was only 13 years old.

The year was 1874, and seven years later Smith partnered with his brother Hank to form Smith and Sons Boat Company. Some of the first craft they built were duck boats.

In 1930, the company changed its named to Chris-Craft, and over the years its fortunes rose and fell with the economy. But always its sleek mahogany boats were popular -- Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra were among owners -- and still today are valued by collectors and practical yachtsmen alike.

Now Christopher Columbus Smith, 82, left, grandson of Chris-Craft's founder, will appear at the Minneapolis Boat Show, which opens Thursday at the Minneapolis Convention Center.

Smith will speak at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday on the history of Chris-Craft, and he will sign his three books at the Mahogany Bay booth and exhibit, "History of Wooden Boating in America."

Mahogany Bay, of Mound, owned by F. Todd Warner, sells, services and consults about vintage boats. At the Boat Show, Mahogany Bay will feature a 1936 44-foot commuter yacht once owned by band leader Guy Lombardo.

The show opens at noon Thursday. Admission for adults age 16 and older is $10. Under 16 are free. More is at www.minneapolisboatshow.com.

DENNIS ANDERSON