Ep 16. The Boat Builders

In "The Boat Builders," the sixteenth episode of Leave It to Beaver's second season, the Cleaver boys, Wally and Beaver, decide to build their own boat to enter into a father-son boat race. The episode starts with the boys in the backyard, sawing and hammering away, as their dad, Ward, watches from the porch with skepticism.

While the boys are working on their boat, their neighbor, Fred Rutherford, stops by to show off his own impressive boat, which he's planning to enter into the race. He makes fun of the boys' small, homemade boat and insists they'll never win with it.

The boys don't let Fred's mockery get to them and keep working on their boat, enlisting the help of their friends Whitey and Clarence. Though they hit some roadblocks along the way, like Beaver accidentally sawing through the bedroom floor, they ultimately succeed in finishing the boat in time for the race.

On the day of the race, Ward reluctantly agrees to captain the boys' boat. They're up against some fierce competition, including Fred Rutherford's boat, which looks like it was built by professionals. But as they start the race, the boys' homemade boat starts to gain speed and passes all the other boats.

Just when it seems like they're going to win, disaster strikes. The boat starts taking on water and eventually sinks, leaving the Cleaver boys soaking wet and disappointed. However, as they walk back home, they're surprised to find that their neighbors have gathered to congratulate them on their impressive effort.

Overall, "The Boat Builders" is a sweet and simple episode that showcases the resourcefulness and determination of young boys. It also touches on the theme of father-son relationships, as Ward initially doubts his sons' abilities but ultimately supports them in their endeavors.