I would suggest that you don't start sailing because you found an inexpensive old boat. You would be better off getting rides as a crew on Hobies (or others) and learning more about it. I have an H-16 and wouldn't want anything else. It can be single handed or carry up to 4 people. There must be people sailing on your lakes that would gladly let you crew. Once you decide what boat you want, go look for one.

Buying an old boat can end up being a lot of work and you end up working when you want to be sailing. If you have any interest in sailing at all you will become addicted to it once you experience it.

Howard