An unknown suspect set fire to a handmade wooden boat between 1 and 1:30 a.m. Thursday at the corner of Spartan and Grand River avenues, according to East Lansing officials.

The boat, located next to the Delta Kappa Epsilon Fraternity house, was built by fraternity members in hopes to start a new Medieval and Nordic history club.

History senior Alan Wolfe, who spearheaded the boat’s building, said the fire nearly burned the fraternity house.

The fraternity’s intention was to sail the boat down the Red Cedar River. Wolfe said they plan to salvage the remains and rebuild the boat.

Fraternity members are offering a reward for tips regarding the fire.

East Lansing Fire Inspector Don Carter said officials will investigate the incident.