Jon boat history question

[Charlie J]

My wife asked "where did that name come from?"

I know what the original jonboats looked like, and I know where they originated, but I found I didn't know how they got the name.

Anyone know?

[pjwalsh]

This is really just idle speculation but...
Seem to remember that jon boats come from areas populated by those of french culture, probably it stems from the name Jean, same way that blue jeans came to be.

[Charlie J]

Thanks PJ. I posted the same question on the Trailer/Sailor board and got this link- in 6 minutes!!! If you are interested, it's an extensive treatise on the subject.

http://thelibrary.springfield.missouri.org/lochist/periodicals/wrv/V37/N3/w98d.htm