Fundraiser honors Allagash legend: Dana Richard Shaw

Last year, Maine lost a true wilderness icon, Dana Richard Shaw (1934–2024). A veteran Maine Guide, master canoe builder, expert riverman and dedicated conservationist, Dana’s life was a testament to adventure and purpose. To honor his enduring spirit and deep connection to the Allagash, his grandson, Joshua Shaw, has created a fundraiser to raise $10,000 for Allagash Wilderness Waterway Foundation’s Youth on the Allagash program.

Dana passed away peacefully on November 21, 2024, at the age of 90, leaving a legacy of exploration and storytelling. He was a charismatic, Hemingway-like figure – a little rough around the edges, but with gentlemanly grace. His impact as an educator, guide, and friend was profound.

A life dedicated to the Allagash

For over 50 years, Dana guided canoeists on the Allagash Wilderness Waterway. Dana loved sharing his knowledge with others. In his own words, he described how he felt about the relationships he built with the people he guided; “It’s easy to get along with everyone. You always set up a bond of friendship in those five to seven days. You become very close to one another when you spend 18 hours a day together. It’s always hard leaving them; it’s like saying goodbye to old friends.”

Dana also advocated for regulations that prevented lumber companies from cutting within 400 feet of the waterway, preserving its natural beauty. Additionally, he played an important role in managing and maintaining the Jalbert Camps at Round Pond and Half Camp at Burntland Brook.

Dana’s adventurous spirit extended beyond the waterway. He was a licensed airplane pilot and flew to remote lakes in northern Quebec to fish uncharted waters in a time long before GPS. His love for travel, the outdoors, and the relationships he built left an indelible mark on the lives of those he touched.

Dana is survived by his children Michael Shaw, Stephen and Sheri Shaw, Anne Shaw and Thomas Caron, Marcia and Rich Ciorra, John and Minyi Shaw, 13 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren, who will carry his memory forward.