history of yacht clubs

The Chicago Yacht Club was organized at the Sherman House in the City of Chicago on the evening of August 7, 1875 as an association with a membership of 37 men. The first officers were John Prindiville (pictured), Commodore; T.M. Bradley, Vice Commodore; William F. Higgie, Rear Commodore; C.E. Kremer, Secretary; and F.W.S. Brawley, Treasurer. The first year book for the season of 1875-76 lists the names of the fifty charter members. The initiation fee was $5 and the annual dues $4, payable semi-annually.

On January 9, 1882, the Club was issued its Certificate of Incorporation under the laws of Illinois. As the Certificate stated, the formation of Chicago Yacht Club was to encourage and promote the sport of yacht sailing and building.

The first Chicago-Mackinac Race is held. William Cameron’s 64’ fin-keel sloop Vanenna won the race among the five boats entered in 51 hours. After a vigorous drive for members, the membership grew from six members and two yachts in 1897 to 60 and 16 yachts.

In 1900 with membership numbering 125 and a fleet of 28 yachts, the club obtained the Argo Clubhouse, a 35 x 55 foot boathouse located at the end of the Illinois Central pier #3 at the foot of Randolph Street. It had been the former home of a group of yachtsmen called the Argonauts- a small group of socially oriented yachtsmen. Their yacht, the Argo, had been used in 1893 to carry their guests to the World’s Columbian Exposition held where Jackson Park harbor is today.

A new clubhouse, initiated by Commodore George Warrington, at the foot of Monroe Street, on pilings in the lake, was formally opened on June 28, 1902.

Clam Dinner

Chicago Yacht Club and the Lincoln Park Yacht Club combined.

In 1923, the barge and clubhouse at Belmont Harbor replaces the lumber schooner Carrier that had served as the Lincoln Park Yacht Club clubhouse since 1915. Carrier, a 177-ton canaler, was built in Michigan in 1865. In 1923, she sank off Evanston while being towed to Waukegan. Her large wheel has been preserved at the Belmont Station and a mural shows Carrier when she was our Club ship. Our race committee crafts have all been named Carrier in her honor.

Monroe St. Clubhouse moved to the present site to make room for the outer drive's construction.

The CYC Race Committee at Mackinac Island in 1928; Included in the photo are Kinsey, Catto, Benedict, Ritchie, Lippincott, Scott, Lockett, Willis, Radulic, Schmitt and F. Benedict.

The depression of the 1930’s put an end to the elaborate plans for the $3,000,000 eight story clubhouse at Chicago Harbor.

Construction of the first section of the present Monroe St. Clubhouse

Additions to the present clubhouse completed. Pictured here is the victorious bowling team with the Detroit Boat Club beating their opponents by 122 pins. Other teams include a CYC trapshooting team and hockey team.

1975 marked the celebration of the Club’s 100 year Anniversary and a new high in activity for the Club. Countless hours of effort by hundreds of loyal members went into the celebration. Recognition flowed from many sources including Illinois Governor Walker, Chicago Mayor Daley and President Gerald Ford. The latter two even enjoyed dinner at the Chicago Yacht Club.

Chicago Yacht Club participates in sponsorship of Heart of America of America’s Cup.

Dick Jennings’ Pied Piper, a Santa Cruz establishes new elapsed time record for Mackinac Race at 25 hours 50 minutes and 44 seconds.

Chicago Yacht Club Foundation was founded by then-Commodore Joseph Wright, Jr., Kurt Stocker, and Dick Wharton. A member can now give something back to the community while supporting the Club’s nautical educational activities.

CYC celebrates the 100th Anniversary of the first Race to Mackinac. The multihull record in the Race to Mackinac is established at 18 hours 50 minutes and 32 seconds by Steve Fossett on Stars and Stripes; the catamaran previously sailed by Dennis Conner in the Americas Cup.

The 125th Anniversary of the Chicago Yacht Club

Roy Disney’s Pyewacket breaks 14 year old race record held by Dick Jennings with elapsed time of 23 hours 30 minutes and 34 seconds.

Belmont Station barge is relocated to the south east end of the Belmont Harbor.

Chicago Yacht Club adds new Sailing Activities Center barge adjacent to Belmont Station.

2008 marked the 100th running of the "Mac Race," with a record entry of 460 boats and 100% of the fleet was tracked by GPS transponder.

The Port of Buffalo grew at a fantastic rate after the opening of the Erie Canal in 1825. Warehouses appeared overnight; shipyards sprang up on all sides; Lake Erie traffic became tremendous. Buffalo business was transfused with new faces: Enterprising men who, sensing the future, appeared overnight. Many newcomers arrived from the eastern seaboard by way of New York. As they came, they brought new customs, modes of living, and the latest in sports and styles -- including the sport of yachting. It was natural that some active and intelligent yachtsmen in the area should follow the lead of the New York Yacht Club (founded in 1844) and their neighbors in Toronto who founded the Royal Canadian Yacht Club in 1852. Thus the Buffalo Yacht Club was started in 1860 at the western terminus of the Erie Canal. The Club’s first regatta was run August 22, 1860, and in the first class, Commodore John Newkirk’s sloop Uncle Sam won, followed by James Booth’s sloop Young Republic. Charles Beck’s Banner won first place in the second class ahead of Alfred Johns’ Young America. No mention is made of the number and sizes of the yachts owned by the members, but some of the members owned more than one yacht as is evident from the fact that on motion of Mr. Beck it was decided that no member could enter more than one yacht in the regatta.

AN ANCHORAGE

One of the problems of the newly organized Club was to select a permanent anchorage. Shelter was, of course, a prime factor. Buffalo’s Erie Basin was the obvious spot, but here they were confronted with the question of their neighbors. Buffalo’s waterfront was the haunt of tough canalers and lake sailors. Permission was secured to use the facilities of the Union Elevator property in the lee of the Erie Basin breakwall which enjoyed a fulltime watchman and furnished a reasonable amount of protection from vandalism. On this site in 1861, the members constructed their first small dock and raised the mast and gaff that flew the Club Burgee.There is a peculiar absence of data for the next several years—the Civil War consumed the members’ energy and attention—and the BYC must have functioned periodically at best.But a nucleus of members held together, and before long they were again making records of races, meetings and plans for a real clubhouse.  

CLUBHOUSE ONE

The first Clubhouse was built in 1864 on the Erie Basin breakwall—presently the site of the Erie Basin Marina. The building was on piles with the porch on what, at that time, was the outer breakwall—no doubt one of the breeziest locations on the waterfront. Boats were moored behind the breakwall which was flanked by piers running at right angles to the wall. Races were sailed on the lake and river in full view of observers sitting on the big front porch, fully protected from storm and rain. During daylight, the members got to the Clubhouse by walking through Canal Street. At night, this might have been a hazardous journey, so upon arriving at the waterfront the members would call out, “Hey Bill!” This would produce Bill Swisher who lived in a houseboat moored in the lee of the breakwall. He would scull over in a square ended punt and ferry the member to the Clubhouse—in the very early days for a fee of one cent, later five cents. Swisher reportedly lived to a very great age and during most of his life acted as ferryman for this trip.  

SUBSEQUENT CLUBHOUSES

The first Clubhouse was somehow destroyed during the fall. And because of the lawlessness of the area and the increase of harbor traffic at this time, it was decided to change the location of the Club. A new site was chosen adjacent to the car ferry landing on the Bird Island breakwall approximately at the foot of what would be Vermont Street if extended to the water—about where the navigational light tower is now, north of the present clubhouse. On August 7, 1878, fire destroyed the Clubhouse completely. With the fire went all records, gear and some spirit. Under the leadership of John S. Provoost in 1879, membership grew from about 24 to 75. Regattas were sailed among the members, and both the Cleveland and Toledo Yacht Clubs were invited to participate in a Grand Union Regatta. The Squadron consisted of fifteen yachts, each owned by or leased to a member or members. Most of the yachts had two or more members listed as “owners or lessees.” On April 4, 1880 it was decided to incorporate the Club and issue stock for a new clubhouse. In short order plans and specifications were drawn and contractors were on the job. The third clubhouse was constructed on the Erie Basin breakwall at the site of the original clubhouse. It opened in August 1880 with a rousing good party. With a brand new building, a fleet of 16 yachts, and a membership of 75, the Club seemed to be bowling along on the high tide of prosperity. Within the next few years, however, the Club underwent hard times and dissention, eventually seeing its clubhouse towed away by the sherrif for non-payment of debts.  

A FOURTH CLUBHOUSE

The upturn was marked in 1886 with the election of Harry D. Williams as Commodore. Many races were reported held during the summer, the most successful of these on the Fourth of July. Yachtsmen from various clubs on Lake Erie participated, and a large banquet celebrated the event in the Tifft House that evening. A building committee was appointed in 1887, and plans for Clubhouse Four were drawn up for construction. A site had been obtained from the State of New York at the foot of Porter Avenue, and consisted of the lands under water from the north line of Porter Avenue to the south line of Connecticut Street extended. The foundation for the clubhouse would consist of wooden piles driven some distance from the shoreline and connected by a long dock. The new Clubhouse was opened in the spring of 1888, with Harry D. Williams again leading the Club. The Club now boasted 127 members, its fleet consisting of two cabin sloops, one open schooner, three open sloops, three cabin cutters, one cabin schooner, one open yawl, two naphtha launches, one steam launch and some unclassified types which made a total of 20 boats in all. On the night of January 9, 1889, Buffalo experienced one of the worst gales which ever swept over Lake Erie. The water rose ten feet above normal and the waves were mountainous.The morning of January 10th presented a bleak picture to those who struggled down to the beach against the still howling gale. The first floor of the new clubhouse and all four walls of the second floor had been entirely swept away, leaving nothing but a skeleton standing on the piles. Nothing was saved from the wreck; most of it went down the river and over Niagara Falls—furniture, the contents of lockers, spars, sails, gear. The members tried vainly to obtain a site on shore, but upon failing decided to rebuild the clubhouse on its old foundations. This decision was based on the word of the “oldest inhabitant” that such a storm could not possibly happen again. But it did, just a year and four days later. On January 13th, 1890, another blow exceeding in violence, if possible, that of the year before tore out the entire lower structure of the clubhouse a second time! In 1891 Frank B. Hower was elected Commodore. Hower went to work restoring the Club’s finances to a firm footing. The elements treated the BYC kindly in 1891 and inflicted no damage whatever on the clubhouse that winter. Optimism returned, and a janitor was installed in charge of the house—a luxury heretofore not indulged in. Following a successful season with many regattas sailed, Commodore Hower was reelected for 1892.  

A FINAL CLUBHOUSE

In 1892 there was a noticeable shift away from participation in regattas in favor of a growing feminine influence within the Club. Accent was on short cruises and spins around the harbor and down the river with the ladies usually present. “Ladies Day” became a regular feature instead of an occasional special one. And the old, patched clubhouse began to appear inadequate for the gala social events coming into vogue. At the annual meeting of 1893 a committee was established to formulate plans for a new clubhouse. Architect H. L. Campbell proceeded to draw plans for a clubhouse which would feature shower baths, ladies’ rooms, lounges, billiard room, manager’s office, cafe, a large dance floor, locker room and sail loft with an estimated cost of $10,000. The building which emerged—Clubhouse Five—is the same building we now occupy, albeit modified following the 1951 fire. The site of the new clubhouse was east of the old clubhouse and in what is now the southeast corner of the basin. The clubhouse was set on piles in the same manner as the earlier clubhouses. The City of Buffalo agreed to build a new pier at the foot of Porter Avenue to which the Club would have access, and thus save them the expense of building one. Buffalo Yacht Club’s new clubhouse made an impressive addition to the waterfront, and the Council and Parks Commissioners were delighted with such a magnificent structure. So pleased were they that they promised a great deal of assistance and assured the Club that no other buildings would be erected near the Club to spoil its location. The “Gay Nineties” were in full swing and interest in yachting had developed to an extent hitherto unknown in the world. There were 24 yachts in the fleet, together with two naphtha launches and two steam yachts.

THE “Z” CRUISE OF THE CLUBHOUSE

Members were greatly surprised when the clubhouse was moved, because instead of being moved along the shore it was set due east, almost to the railroad tracks. This had a very depressing effect on the membership, since yachtsmen felt their clubhouse must be at the water’s edge at least. After much negotiation, the City finally drove pilings in front of the wall at about the location of the present bridge to the outer wall of the basin. The clubhouse then set its course northwest and moved to this location. Meanwhile, the City Council in going over its records had found that it was obligated to the BYC for the relinquishment of the State grant to the City, in addition to the several verbal agreements previously made. In 1923, the Club secured a 30-year lease from the City for the present grounds. The lease further provided for the construction by the City of the docks, bridge, and marine railway. Our present facilities are thus the result of the Club’s having released to the City its New York State grant. It was at this time that the Club, in completion of its last leg of its “Z” course, came to rest in its present location. The final move came, quite obviously, as the result of the building of the present docks.

THE STORY OF THE FOOT OF PORTER AVENUE

The Club enjoyed a perpetual grant from the State of New York for “riparian rights” to occupy the offshore lands from Porter Avenue on the south to an extension of Connecticut Street on the north. Perpetuity is a long time and to the members this meant that as long as they could withstand the storms of Lake Erie they would have a satisfactory location for the clubhouse. There came a time, however, when a typhoid epidemic broke loose in Buffalo with destructive force. To decrease the typhoid danger, the City decided to move its water intake from the Niagara River at the foot of Massachusetts Street to a site nearer the mouth of the Niagara River. They decided to locate the new pumping station just south of Porter Avenue in the area that is now LaSalle Park but at that time was a low, sandy bathing beach. In order to build the pumping station, Porter Avenue would be extended to the channel line, a wall built south along the channel line, and the area behind the wall filled in. In the course of construction the location of the BYC was found to be at a “decided disadvantage to the City.” The Club was asked to move. Standing on its rights, it refused to move since it had undergone considerable expense in constructing its foundations and had the assurances from the City that it would not be molested. In attempting to force the issue the City found that it was occupying New York State lands and that the Naval Militia had a riparian grant extending northward to the line of Jersey Street. The State of New York upheld the Club in its stand. At a 1909 meeting in Albany attended by the Lieutenant Governor, the Mayor of Buffalo, the Attorney General and the State Comptroller, it was decided that the State would not give a clear title to the City unless the City itself would move the Yacht Club to another site and provide equal foundations and facilities. The Yacht Club, in a generous and cooperative spirit, agreed to these conditions and, in addition, agreed to give the greater portion of its riparian rights on the north end toward Connecticut Street to the Naval Militia. The City, in turn, agreed to lease a portion of the land on shore to the Yacht Club at a nominal rent and to provide access to the clubhouse. Everybody came home from Albany satisfied with the agreement. The City for its part proceeded to appropriate funds to carry out its part of the bargain. A resolution for the appropriation was duly passed by the lower house of the Common Council, but the upper house repudiated the verbal agreement, declaring it illegal, and refused to appropriate the necessary money to accomplish the task. The work on the Colonel Ward Pumping Station was well under way and dredges were moved to such close proximity of the clubhouse as to endanger its foundations. The members became so agitated and concerned that several of them took it upon themselves to stand guard over the BYC property and even warned the captains of the dredges against damaging the clubhouse.  

PURCHASE OF BUFFALO PROPERTY

For fifty years the existence of the lease at the Foot of Porter Avenue was a perennial source of concern. Although the Club acquired a fine facility it had no collateral value when it tried to mortgage the clubhouse to make capital improvements. Since the clubhouse was on City land the clubhouse was deemed unmortgageable, and the Club had to face the reality that all improvements would have to come from membership dues, assessments and private loans.   In 1950, with three years remaining on the original lease, Commodore George Miller renegotiated the lease for another thirty years—running up to 1983. The ideal solution would, of course, be to purchase the property, but the land had been dedicated for park purposes and could not be conveyed without specific legislation from the State of New York. Finally in 1973 the Legislature in Albany authorized “the City of Buffalo, Erie County, to discontinue the use of certain lands therein acquired, reserved or designated by the city for municipal and park purposes and to sell and convey such lands to the Buffalo Yacht Club” and Commodore A.D. Palmer proceeded to complete the details with the City of Buffalo for purchase of the property. Considerable maneuvering with the City occupied the next five years, and in 1978 under Commodore William Roche, the general membership agreed to changes in our Constitution that had previously precluded women from membership. They also approved at that time a memorandum of understanding with the City of Buffalo pertaining to the constitutionality of the Club’s membership policies. Passage of these two items paved the way for the City of Buffalo to finally sell the previously dedicated park land to the BYC. On April 26, 1978, Mayor James D. Griffin signed the documents selling the property to the Buffalo Yacht Club for $49,500. The 118-year old Club at last owned the land beneath its clubhouse!

The Fire of 1951

On Tuesday evening, November 13, 1951 the clubhouse was devastated by a major fire. Two dinner meetings were going on with about 200 guests when the fire broke out, assumed to have been started by careless smoking. All of the guests and employees were able to evacuate to safety, but over forty fire fighters and reservists from next door were injured fighting the blaze. When the fire was extinguished the top floor was gone. Club members, led by Mike Belinson, rebuilt the clubhouse the following spring to its present general appearance. The third deck ballroom was now the attic and the wide second deck veranda had been incorporated into the dining room which now occupied most of the second deck. The title of “Ship’s Husband” was created for Mike Belinson, and a tradition of Fire Nite Stag parties was started to comemmorate the recovery and the cameraderie it inspired.

Mary Openbottom

The idea of a Club bar in the shape of a boat originated with P/C Dan Kraft in early 1953 when he purchased a popular plywood cruiser hull made by Richardson Boat Company. The bottom half of the hull was cut away and the sides braced into the semblance of a boat in the bar room. Harry Smith, a regular bar and Club patron, personally engaged the services of an expert cabinetmaker and boat builder who worked on the bar for several months, crafting the teak decks, rails, under-bar cabinets and the Pilot House back bar. This work was all donated by Harry Smith, and several other parts were likewise donated by interested members. The bar was christened on October 10, 1953 by Vice-Commodore "Shorty" Holzworth and given the informal name of "Mary Openbottom".

The Sailor's Tables

According to P/C Charlie Obersheimer, his first recollections of the “Sailors’ Table” go back to when the House Committee reestablished dining room facilities in 1939. The stout 4’ x 12’ planked pine table had been discovered in the loft and carried down to the dining room. There had been no regular dining room service at least as far back as 1926 when P/C Obersheimer had become a member, although there had been several parties each year with food provided by outside caterers.   The original purpose for having the Sailors’ Table in the dining room was to provide a place for sailors and boatmen in sailing clothes to have dinner or luncheon without mingling with members who preferred dinner in a more formal manner. There were many initials and dates carved into this table when it was restored to service, and a few of the initials could be recognized by the oldest members at that time.   The Sailors’ Table purpose has remained essential the same over the years, with the added function of being a place where a member or members could dine without reservations or preplanned parties. In a 1953 Binnacle one member was reported to have said, “If you want to get insulted . . . and by you best friends . . . sit at the sailors’ table.”   By 1974 the Sailors’ Table was enjoying such popularity – from increased luncheon activity and Friday night fish fries in particular – that is was always being “extended’ with several smaller tables. Why not, a member suggested, add a second Sailor’s Table to the original? It was decided that a new table should be build and paid for by member contributions, the contributors each receiving a square foot of surface in which they could carve their own initials. The table was quickly subscribed.   The new 4’ x 12’ table, constructed by Connie Galus, made its appearance in 1974. Its hard birch surface, however, made it necessary to change the plan for adornment. After a prolonged delay in which other projects got priority, the table contributors were asked to present their inscriptions on paper instead of being allowed to “do their own thing” with a pocket knife. And finally in January and February 1976, John Hill and Jerry Stange layed out and routed the table.   When the engraved table appeared that spring, the immediate response for the “regulars” who hadn’t got in on the first table was that something had to be done now to the old Sailors’ Table to give them a square foot of identity. Always anxious for more contributions, a plan was developed by Jim Rhoads to resurface he old table and sell foot squares for engraving. This was subscribed as quickly as was the other table, but this time the press of other projects delayed the actual completion and engraving to the spring of 1979, when the routing of names was done by Jerry Stange. It is interesting to look at the underside of the old table, where the old initials of bygone members still reside. During the tables, restoration, the least-historical side was bared to make room for the new engravings.

Point Abino

In 1902, Allan Holloway offered the Buffalo Yacht Club a beautiful piece of property at Point Abino, Ontario, Canada for the sum of $400 to pay off a mortgage on the property. For his generous gift, Mr. Holloway was elected to Life Membership in the Club. The Point was void of houses except for the old Holloway house buried among the trees and a pier which extended out into the Bay from which Holloway shipped sand to Buffalo under the name of The Point Abino Sand Company. Another pier existed on the West Shore and was more often used for shipping as the sand there was more pure and more readily accessible.   The property offered the Buffalo Yacht Club was located on the side of a hill overgrown with trees and shrubs, and had a mule cart path running through it parallel to the water. South of the property on this road was the Holloway Chapel built in 1894. The pier on the south side of this property had a dummy railroad which was used to carry sand to be transferred to barges. A detached crib located south of the range light beyond the channel entrance was used to moor empty and loaded barges. When enough barges were filled they were hauled to Buffalo. The only access to the Canadian shore from Buffalo in those days was by water. There was no Peace Bridge, no need for roads. Upon receiving the property a 50 x 40 foot frame clubhouse was constructed. The first floor consisted of a lounge, dining room, and kitchen, together with a caretaker’s quarters. The second floor was laid out for a dormitory. A veranda ran completely across one side. A windmill erected beside the house solved the problem of a water supply. For the 1903 season a steward was engaged to take care of the sailors’ needs at the Point. The 1904 season opened with caretakers in charge, and by August the facilities could not accommodate the throngs of people wanting to stay overnight. With twenty to thirty people sleeping over, many had to sleep on the floor. The need for a means to transport non-boat-owning members to the Point was addressed in the spring of 1905 by having a 54 foot long power yacht built at a cost $4000.00.   The Vayu, powered by a 60 horsepower engine was capable of driving 12 miles per hour. She could seat thirty people and was covered with a sun awning suspended on a pipe framework.   A 180-foot barge was sunk in front of the house for use as a landing spot for the Vayu. Engine problems plagued the Vayu from the time it arrived in Buffalo in 1905 and within a year the Board of Directors suggested looking for a buyer for this power craft. The boat was sold in 1907 at a loss.   In August 1906 King Edward VII issued a special grant permitting the BYC to hold this property and gave the club riparian rights to a depth of six feet.    

CREATION OF A BASIN

Harvey Holzworth, whose family summer home is two houses north of the BYC property, remembers Bob Heussler building the first docking facilities he saw at Point Abino in about 1935, about 60 - 100 feet of wooden section walkway dock over the cribs and the big cement blocks which remained from the old Point Abino Sand Company pier. According to the records, previous docks were built in 1924 and 1927. The first channel was dredged by the short-lived Point Abino Yacht Club which pointed the way to future developments. It was dredged out into the lake from the drainage ditch alongside the Abino Hills Road. The Township had kept this dug out into the lake about 150 feet to keep the water draining, and the drag line would always throw the sand and muck to the south side, creating a filled in area to the eventual advantage of the BYC. In 1938, Rear Commodore Charlie Obersheimer extended this channel out into the lake approximately another 500 to 700 feet, throwing all the sand and muck to the north side of the channel, and creating the semblance of a 30 foot by 80 foot basin. The original channel extended along the north bank of what is today "Monkey Island", and the channel was re-dug approximately every three years by "Old Man" Storm, who dug all the original channels in front of the summer homes along Point Abino Road. Mike, his son, was his helper and later took over the business his dad started. In 1948 a wooden dock was added, but otherwise there was little change to the Club's Point Abino waterfront. About 1960 it became apparent that more mooring space and docks would be needed, and talk centered on how nice it would be it we had a nice long, deep, permanent channel, one deep enough so that the keel sailboats could come in to moor ashore. A channel would have to be dredged to the north of the dock line, with the cribs protecting the channel from the seas coming in from the south. The ice and storms over the years had moved many of the big cement blocks, which used to sit on top of the Sand Company cribs into the line of the proposed channel. In 1961 Harvey Holzworth commandeered a bulldozer, a large railroad winch and his amphibious DUKW (World War II surplus) to drag these blocks out of the channel and in between the cribs. At the same time Commodore Fred Obersheimer located a quarry where the Club could trade sand for stone, and six hundred feet of stone pier were completed, the beginning of the berm as we know it today. The dock for the 1961 summer season was constructed on pilings and formed a slip with the new berm to the south. Boats had to enter through the regular Abino channel (north) and then proceed into the new basin which dead-ended to the east. Since the berm offered the only walkway to the shore facilities, the first boat in was in the best position, and although the last boat to tie up was much closer to shore (which to him was made inaccessible by a stretch of water 12 feet wide), "the long,long walk" became part of Abino parlance of those late arriving skippers and their crews who had to make the trek to the shore facilities. However, water was piped to the docks and plug-in shore current was installed for use on the near docks. Then, late in the fall of 1962, there was a good three days blow of strong northeast winds which held the water up the lake, and with the seasonal water level already low it resulted in the waterline receding out approximately to the end of our present berm, leaving mostly bare land out that far. When Harvey saw these rare conditions, he recognized a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity had presented itself for digging the new channel out into the lake. He quickly line up Mike Storm to get his dragline ready, and called Vice Commodore John Dooley to tell him that it was now or never. John gave him the go-ahead before the end of the day, and Mike Storm arrived with his dragline at the crack of dawn with the winds still holding strong northeast. Since Mike had dredged all the other channels, he knew where the soft spots were, and could feel the bottom as he moved the dragline far out into the lake. When he was several hundred feet beyond the present end of the berm in approximately four feet of water and with the water about an inch over the floor of the dragline's cab, he started digging. Mike had to dredge and throw enough dirt back to build an island that he could climb up onto and out of the water before the wind let up and the lake started to rise. He swung the dragline bucket every 30 seconds all day long, non-stop, until dusk. The wind was letting up and the water starting to rise. He turned on the flood lights of his machine and said, "I better get up on top of that island." He just made it in time. It was like an act of God, mother nature, and the fast moving of all concerned that enabled the critical phase of digging a new and permanent channel for the Point Abino Station -- and at such a low cost (Approximately $7000) and so far out into the lake! The island with the dragline on top was far out beyond the end of the present berm, and as Mike kept digging, the island grew larger and higher, eventually reaching about 12 feet above the water. After several weeks of dredging, there was a good freeze and the tall island of dirt froze to concrete hardness, requiring the use of dynamite to loosen it up. At this stage the island of dirt was about opposite the berm. It was at this stage that a second dragline started dredging along the berm, and three huge dump trucks, normally used in a rock quarry, were brought in to move the dirt ashore. It was late December going into January, and the final phases of digging the new channel were moving full blast. Mother nature again lent a big helping hand by keeping the ground frozen hard. All the land from close to the road out to as far as the sand beach and north to the built-up land from the dredgings along the drainage ditch, was all muck, quicksand and cattails. With the three big dump trucks, two draglines, bulldozer and DUKW in operation, the swamp and cattail area was completely filled in. It was a sight to see -- all seven machines working at once -- but there was nobody there to see it. Among the first boats to use the new facilities were a dozen deep draft cruising sailboats — the "Deeper than Five" group — whose owners paid for additional dredging and construction of docks along the berm for deep-draft sailboats in exchange for slip rental fees for for several years. By 1965 there were 32 requests for permanent berths in the Abino basin, and by 1966 the number was up to 47. The channel was widened and fifteen finger slips were built to accommodate cruisers. The docking area along the berm was lengthened to accommodate 18 auxiliaries. Removable dock sections were constructed and used as stand-offs along the berm to keep the auxiliaries afloat in their slips. More rock was added to the berm. The wooden dock on the north was extended and a 'T' was added that could be used by small sailboats. In the later 1960s about two feets of stone was added to the berm for elevation, and the one-design sailing area was completely redesigned with the development of a turnaround and a dry sailing trailer park for the forty one-design boats. A new hoist was obtained and installed. Dredging continued annually through the late 60s and early 70s, and instead of hauling the dredged material away it was used to elevate the strip of land east of the road. The hope was to protect the property during flood conditions. The south shore end of the basin was dredged and squared off to facilitate the installation of more finger slips. The need for a permanent solid berm was dramatized by another sudden storm. A bond drive for this purpose was started in 1970 and soon was pledged to $51,000. Phase I of the Master Plan for development of the basin was started in 1972. Two hundred sixty feet of sheet piling were purchased and installed at a cost of $30,000, with a turnaround added at the end of the berm. The contractor was Buck Wamsley from Port Dover, builder of much of Port Dover's riverfront and known by many Club members. The bonds sold in 1970 to install sheet piling on the berm were retired in 1975. Large stones were applied in an effort to minimize the annual winter erosion of the berm. The north dock and hoist area received some sprucing up and a crushed stone ramp was run to the hoist. Some dredging was done along the north dock to facilitate shallow draft cruisers. The north channel was cleared of reeds to allow easier access to the hoist by one-design boats, especially the Highlanders, which fleet was peaking out. In January of 1977 the membership approved a $68,000 bond issue to continue the sheetpiling of the berm. By May, $61,500 in bonds had been sold and a St. Catherines firm started trenching and driving new sheetpiling from the 1972 cut-off to just short of the shore head, a distance of 500 feet. After capping the piling, it was tied back by steel rods to concrete "dead men" sunk into the berm. Heavy rock was added to the weather side of the berm to help resist erosion, and the berm was then resurfaced. Whereas the earlier sheetpiling had been financed by the sale of sand, the new bonds were to be repaid by a member assessment over the following ten years. (They were retired, however, in only eight years.) In 1979 the Club was cited for dredging without authorization as the dock pilings were being "jetted" in place for the upcoming season. "The perch were spawning in the basin," we were told. This unexpected event led to a "Catch-22" predicament: under an amendment to the Fisheries Act formulated in 1977 and put on the books in 1978, no one would be allowed to disturb the fish habitat without permission. For a period of a month thereafter no representative of Fisheries in Environment Canada in Ottawa, nor of the Ministry of Natural Resources in Toronto or Fonthill, would accept the responsibility for issuing such permission. Each declared that it was the other's domain. Finally, through the good offices of Earle Blackadder, our Canadian barrister, the signature of a somewhat-removed official was obtained, allowing us to continue the preparation of the basin. The BYC must have been the first body cited under this amendment since to that point no other party had ever been granted permission to dredge. Since that time it has always been necessary to plan dredging and dock installation well in advance so permission could be appropriately obtained.

Buffalo Yacht Club History Brochure

In 1892, Chicago was rebuilding from its disastrous fire, the world was wildly anticipating the Columbian Exposition, Daniel Burnham was advising city leaders to make no little plans, and a group of yachting enthusiasts organized what became formally known as Columbia Yacht Club. Within months, those founding members built their first clubhouse, a one-room shed built atop an 18 by 35-foot barge. More importantly, they set a tone of camaraderie and the foundation for a lively calendar of social activities, racing, and cruising for members. Over the next few years, Columbia Yacht Club became so popular that membership outgrew this first facility. By 1898, the Club moved into a second barge measuring 2,700 square feet. With a larger structure, complete with veranda, full galley, and bar, the membership feted notable guests such as Sir Thomas Lipton. It wasn't long before Columbia needed to increase its square footage a second time. In 1902, funds were raised to construct an elaborate, floating two-story structure, complete with a ballroom to accommodate lavish feasts and parties where members danced to the accompaniment of full orchestras. Season after season, members enjoyed racing, cruising, and celebrations until 1914 and the onset of World War I. The Club, like the rest of the country, fell on hard times; loyal members left Chicago to join the fight. Sadly, through lack of use and loss of membership, the physical club house was lost. Despite this misfortune, Columbia Yacht Club members continued to gather together. They chose the Aviator's Club on North Clark Street, where they hosted social events and made plans for a new Club Ship. Ultimately, the membership purchased the Pere Marquette, a 193-foot wood and iron-plated steamboat. The first on-board gathering was held May 13, 1925 and, in short order, Columbia regained its reputation as the club for serious sailors who were also serious about having fun. By the time Chicago hosted the World's Fair, "A Century of Progress," in 1933, Columbia was billed as "the most unique meeting place for tired and hungry yachtsmen." The Pere Marquette proved a worthy and accommodating home for Columbia until January 1937, when she was towed six miles into Lake Michigan and sunk under a barrage of Coast Guard shell fire. To replace the old girl, members purchased a 213-foot, former side-wheel excursion steamer, the S.S Florida, and upgraded her to house the Club and its many popular parties and events. As the nation recovered from the Great Depression through the 1930s, a full calendar of on and off the water events entertained members and their guests. In fact, many of the parties that first began during this period continue as annual events today: Columbia's first Christmas party was held in 1939 and the Beachcomber Ball of the late 1940s has evolved into a series of summer dock parties today. In May of 1955, a galley fire ignited and rapidly spread through the Florida, causing her to sink at the dock. A date that should have held special honor as the anniversary of the Pere Marquette opening to members, Friday, May 13 suddenly became a fateful date of disaster. But with the same spirit that members had shown after the Great War, members rallied and raised the Florida, restoring her for another nearly 30 years of service. By 1982, the 100-year old S.S. Florida could no longer house the ever-growing membership and its popular parties. The Flag officers, Board and membership purchased an even larger Club Ship, a 372-foot former ice-cutting Canadian ferry, the Q.S.M.V. Abegweit. After several months of renovation by member volunteers, the Abby began welcoming members and their guests in the summer of 1983. Since then the Abby has provided a fine home for those who, not unlike those first members in 1892, share a passion for sailing and camaraderie. After more than 120 years, Columbia Yacht Club retains the vital and energetic spirit that began with that small group of sailors envisioning a yacht club on a tiny scow. The MV Abegweit began service as an icebreaking railway, vehicle, and passenger ferry that operated across the Abegweit Passage of the Northumberland Strait, connecting Port Borden, Prince Edward Island to Cape Tormentine, New Brunswick, from 1947-1982. The word "Abegweit" is derived from the Mi'kmaq word for Prince Edward Island in Atlantic Canada. The Mi'kmaq called the island "Epekwit'k," or "cradled on the waves." The MV Abegweit was laid down as hull 144 in November 1944 and launched in 1946 from Marine Industries limited shipyard in Sorel, Quebec. Her designers were the famous Montreal design firm of Germand & Milne. She was owned by the Canadian National Railway, operator of the Borden-Cape Tormentine service from 1918-1977. The vessel was the most powerful icebreaker in the world at the time of her commissioning on June 28, 1947. She was also reportedly the heaviest vessel ever constructed in Canada. Her patron at the time of commissioning was Mrs. J. Walter Jones, the wife of the premiere of Prince Edward Island. The vessel entered service on August 14, 1947, and earned her place in the hearts of the PE Islanders, who affectionately called her the Abby. The Abby measures 372 feet in length and displaces 7,000 tons. While in ferry service, her eight main engines generated 13,500 brake horse power (10MW) and drove propellers at both bow and stern. She carried 950 passengers and 60 cars, or one complete passenger train of 19 railway cars. The growth of vehicle and rail traffic by the 1950s soon made the Abby obsolete. Subsequent vessels introduced in the 1960s and 1970s could carry more vehicles and rail traffic, as well as load and unload with greater speed. The replacement for the Abegweit was the MV Straightway. But while she was under construction, the CN Marine decided to carry on the name and call the new vessel the MV Abegweit as well. To accommodate this change, the original MV Abegweit was renamed MV Abby in the fall of 1982 and she maintained this name through the end of her ferry service. After finishing service on the Borden-Cape Tormentine route, the MV Abby was moved to Pictou, Nova Scotia, and listed for sale. In the winter of 1982-83, Columbia Yacht Club purchased the MV Abby as our new Club Ship. The Abby left the Northumberland Strait for good in April 1983 and remains "in service" today, hosting our members and their guests on the scenic Chicago lakefront at the foot of Randolph Street. This past winter, I had the privilege to meet the final Senior Master of the Abegweit, Roy Coffin. His daughter, Kathy, emailed the Club in hopes of visiting the ship. She stated her father had previously worked on the Abby, and they are life long “islanders.” As always, we accepted them with open arms. We’re proud that Columbia members often go out of their way to welcome back old friends of the Abby, and to share with passers-by what a special place the Club Ship is.  Over the years, new club members (and even some that have crossed the Abegweit threshold for years) have asked quite a few questions about the history of our club ship, the Abegweit (the “Abby”) as well as the Columbia Yacht Club.  Additionally, our yacht club has been fortunate to occupy a wonderful gem of a  lakefront location.  How long has the Abby been here?  How did it get here?  When was Columbia Yacht Club formed?  Where did the Abby come from?  It was an ice-breaker that carried rail-cars, automobiles, and passengers … really?  And a few more.  One of our resident old salts, Captain Abby, took on many of these questions and attempted to provide answers in the articles on this page. And that's why our Abby House Committee watches over this room with great care -- if any panel were to be damaged, it could not be replaced.   But wait, there's more.  What else is so uniquely special about these panels?  Take a look around you.   Look at any panel.  Notice a knot in the panel closer to the top.  Additionally, notice that the knot is mirrored on the other side of the panel cut.  As if a tree was sliced with the knot at the end of the board.    Club Calendar Parking and Directions Communications Hours of Operation Legacy Series Conservation A Brief History The second oldest yacht club. The records of the Southern Yacht Club trace its history back to the club's founding in the Gulf Coast resort town of Pass Christian, Mississippi in the year 1849. Only the venerable New York Yacht Club can document an earlier founding date. As such, SYC is proud to bear the mantle of the second oldest yacht club in the United States. New Orleans in the antebellum era was a thriving port city, banking center and cultural leader. However, during the summer months, many New Orleanians would retreat to the Gulf Coast to flee the city's heat, humidity and outbreaks of yellow fever. Summer homes, hotels and boarding houses dotted the coast along the Mississippi Sound to Mobile Bay. The first recorded regattas in this region were held as early as the 1830s in the coastal ports of Biloxi and Mobile. The Race to the Coast The year after its founding, on July 4th, 1850, SYC held the first of what was to become an annual race from New Orleans to Pass Christian. The racecourse winds its way across Lake Pontchartrain, through The Rigolets to Lake Borgne and then into the Mississippi Sound. This annual Race to the Coast continues today and is one of the very oldest regattas still regularly contested in the Western Hemisphere. A Clubhouse, at last The gulf yachting association, the olympic games, hurricane katrina. Hurricane Katrina made landfall just east of New Orleans on August 29, 2005 causing widespread destruction throughout the region, including crippling damage to numerous Gulf Coast yacht clubs. Though only modestly damaged by wind and flood waters, Southern's clubhouse was ultimately destroyed by a massive fire which burned unchecked in the hours following the storm. Sadly, many historic trophies and other priceless artifacts were lost in the fire. After two years of construction, Southern Yacht Club's fourth West End clubhouse was opened in 2009. Once again, SYC has a permanent home and, like the clubhouses before her, she is the crown jewel of the New Orleans Lakefront. Over the years, Southern Yacht Club sailors have won four Olympic medals and numerous national and international championships. Through more than one hundred and sixty years of prosperity and adversity the Southern Yacht Club has maintained a tradition of keen competition, sportsmanship and eponymous hospitality. A brief history of the St. Augustine Yacht Club Here’s a brief look at the history of the St. Augustine Yacht Club, courtesy of Linda Bond and Gaye Farris, 150th P.R. Committee co-chairs. The Beginning The 1870s were exciting times in America. The Civil War was over, and the economy was booming, leading to a prosperity that Mark Twain dubbed the Gilded Age. In 1873, a group of yachtsmen began planning a yacht club in St. Augustine. Fittingly, the oldest yacht club in Florida is in the oldest city in the United States. In the 1880s that city would become the winter resort of the Gilded Age’s rich and famous. And many had yachts. The Juneteenth General By 1874, the St. Augustine Yacht Club was begun in earnest, with a Civil War hero as the first commodore. Major General Gordon Granger is known for his part in the Battles of Chickamauga and Chattanooga. He is also the general who, on June 19, 1865, informed the residents of Galveston, Texas, that the Emancipation Proclamation had ended slavery. His announcement is now celebrated as a national holiday, Juneteenth. Memorable Events The St. Augustine Yacht Club had its first race in 1875 on the Matanzas River and Bay with spectators lining the seawall. Under Ulysses S. Grant’s presidency (1869-77), the War Department chartered the club with defending the St. Augustine Inlet in times of war. Youth sailing instruction began in 1889 and became part of St. Augustine Days, of which the club was a main sponsor. The Grand Bal Masque During the late 1800s and early 1900s, the club was referred to as the Winter Newport because so many prominent Northern families came here for “the season,” January through May. The club became renowned for its parties. The most famous was the “Grand Bal Masque,” held each February at a hotel and which “eclipsed anything of the season,” according to one scribe. Two hundred attendees, many of them masked, would dance to an orchestra until 2 in the morning. Early Members Many early club members were prominent national leaders in commerce, the arts and government; one was even a military spy. Henry Morrison Flagler, founder of Standard Oil, Florida East Coast Railways and the cities of Miami and Palm Beach, built railroads and hotels in St. Augustine, making it a resort destination. His yacht, Alicia, was custom-built and was the America’s Cup Patrol boat in 1895. Andrew S. Carnegie, industrialist and philanthropist, led the expansion of the U.S. steel industry in the late 19th century, becoming one of the richest Americans in history. He famously challenged fellow club member St. Augustine Mayor W. S. M. Pinkham to a race. Through clever tactics, Pinkham’s unbeaten Cheemaun beat Carnegie’s much larger yacht, Misue. Louis Comfort Tiffany, artist, known for his stained-glass lamps and windows, was an avid yachtsman, too. Caldwell Hart Colt, following his gunmaker father, Samuel Colt, designed the Colt double-barrel rifle in 1879, but loved sailing, not business. He acquired his first of five yachts at 18, spending, some said,10 months a year racing. The most famous, Dauntless, had two challenges for the America’s Cup, but lost both. A member of three yacht clubs (New York, Larchmont and St. Augustine), Colt died young in 1894 in Punta Gorda. He fell off his yacht under mysterious circumstances. At the time, he was the richest bachelor in America. M. Taylor was a Florida state senator from 1924 to 1932. Later he was a commissioner of the Florida Inland Navigation District, helping develop the Intracoastal Waterway in Florida. William Larimer Mellon Sr., co-founder of Gulf Oil, purchased in the early 1900s the Vagabondia, described by the media as a "houseboat" and a "sleek black yacht.” Dagmar Chilman was the first female commodore of the St. Augustine Yacht Club. Born in London, she had been a British Intelligence Service spy during World War II. She translated French Underground information. On her third parachute into France, she was captured by the Germans but later rescued by Canadian troops. The Present In contrast to its Gilded Age past, the St. Augustine Yacht Club is now a community leader, sponsoring boating events, youth sailing education and member fellowship. Community events include the Holiday Regatta of Lights, Blessing of the Fleet, Sailing Races, Dragon Boating, Lunch and Learn talks and youth sailing camps for 400 participants a year. Member socials are monthly theme parties with bands and dancing, weekly Friday night dinners, family picnics and games, Mardi Gras and Halloween costume contests, game and trivia nights and much more. A major club goal is constructing a building to house the St. Augustine Yacht Club Sailing Center. It will provide affordable access to boating for youth in and around St. Augustine by offering sailing camps and racing and on-the-water fun. Scholarships are available as the club believes no child should be denied access to its programs due to financial need. The St. Augustine Yacht Club Foundation is now raising funds for the building. Celebrating Past and Future A masquerade ball is being held on Feb. 13. Other events include a sailing regatta, boat parade, boat scavenger hunt, Dragon Boat races, a trolley ride to places associated with the club’s history, a plein air painting event with local artists and the burial of a time capsule containing club history. Contact [email protected] for more information. Other items that may interest you History of the Yacht By: American Sailing Sailing History When does a boat become a yacht? One answer has always been, you can tell a yacht when you see one. But, It really has nothing to do with size of the boat, weight of the boat, its style, sleeping quarters, heads, tillers, or a wheel. A yacht is a boat that was designed for the express pleasure of its owner. The yacht is an invention of the 14th century Dutch. The Dutch used small, fast boats for chasing smugglers, pirates and criminals. Rich ship owners and merchants began using these small “ jaghts ” to sail out to celebrate their returning merchant ships. It quickly became chic to use these “ jaghts ” to take friends out just for pleasure. “ Mary ” was presented to King Charles II by the Dutch in 1660. Charles II of England spent 10 years in exile in Holland before he was returned to the English throne in 1660. His return to the throne was celebrated by the city of Amsterdam, presenting him with a luxurious 60’ yacht including a crew of 20. Her name was Mary. He took great pleasure in sailing her up and down the Thames. He studied navigation and even naval architecture and he built approximately 20 yachts during his lifetime. It can be said that he was the world’s first yachtsman. His enthusiasm for yachting was contagious and his brother James, Duke of York, joined him and also became an avid yachtsman as well. As always when there are two sailboats on the water a race ensues. Soon the first organized regatta was planned as a 40-mile race on the Thames. It took place in 1661 between Katherine , Charles’s newly constructed yacht and Anne , the Duke of York’s new yacht with Charles himself at the helm Katherine won and a new sport was born. Yachting stayed the Sport of Kings for over a century, but by the 1800s yachting had grown to included participants of more than just the crown heads of Europe. The worlds wealthiest had joined in. Yacht Clubs were forming. The first yacht club in the world, called the Cork Water Club , was established in Ireland in 1720, followed the Lough Ree Yacht Club in 1770 (again in Ireland), and the Starcross Yacht Club in 1772 in England. Cowes Castle became the headquarters of the Royal Yacht Squadron around 1858. Probably the most famous of all the English yacht clubs the The Royal Yacht Squadron was founded on June 1, 1815 in the Thatched House Tavern in St James’s, London as The Yacht Club by 42 gentlemen interested in yachting. Across the pond the New York Yacht Club (NYYC) was started on July 30, 1844 when John Cox Stevens invited eight friends to his yacht Gimcrack , anchored in New York Harbor. They formed a syndicate to build a yacht with the intention of taking her to England and making some money competing in yachting regattas and match races. They choose to build a Pilot style Schooner to represent the club; at the time there was no faster design! Pilot Schooners would lie at anchor in the inner harbor of New York City and wait for the behmoth square rigged Clippers carrying goods between America and Europe. The Pilot Boats purpose was to guide the huge square riggers that would appear at the entrance to New York Harbor’s Verazno Straights, to a berth in the City. The Schooners had to be fast to make a living. First one to the cargo ship got the job second got nothing. The syndicate contracted with master schooner designer George Steers for a 101 ft (30.78 m) schooner which was christened America and launched on the 3 of May 1851. America crossed the Atlantic on her own bottom that year and challenged all of England’s fastest yachts to a match race. No yachts were willing to race her. Finally, America joined a free-for-all on Friday, August 22, around the Isle of Wight, racing against 15 yachts of the Royal Yacht Squadron in the club’s annual 53-nautical-mile (98 km) race around the Isle of Wight. Finishing 8 minutes ahead of its closest rival. America had won the Royal Yacht Squadron’s “ Hundred Guinea Cup “, later called the America’s Cup in honor of the yacht that won it. The Yacht America Watching the race was Queen Victoria, who supposedly inquired, “ Which is first? ” Told it was America , she asked, “ Which is second? ” “ Ah, Your Majesty, there is no second, ” was the reply. Or so the story goes. The NYYC defended that trophy from 1870-1983. This has been described by journalists as “ the longest winning streak in sports “. Related Posts: Learn To Sail Mobile Apps Online Courses Upcoming Courses Sailor Resources ASA Log Book Bite Sized Lessons Knots Made Easy Catamaran Challenge Sailing Vacations Sailing Cruises Charter Resources International Proficiency Certificate Find A Charter All Articles Sailing Tips Sailing Terms Destinations Environmental Initiatives Instructor Resources Become An Instructor Become An ASA School Member / Instructor Login Affiliate Login History of SYC Images of syc history. Food & Beverage Member Login Established 1904 The Olympia Yacht Club A summary of oyc's history. ( From the annuals, PC Larry Price and various other sources) In the Beginning From 1904 to 1915 Olympia Yacht Club was known as the Boat and Rowing Club of Olympia.  During this period the ‘commodore’ was W.J. “Billy” Foster, an eminent local sailor.  At the start there were approximately 25 members.  Olympia Yacht Club was officially incorporated in 1904, with W.A. Van Epps as the first Commodore and was one of the first 14 Yacht Clubs in the Puget Sound. Only four members have served two terms as Commodore – R.L. Blankenship, 1923-1924; Walter Draham, 1930-1931; Ernest Mallory, 1932 and 1943; W.W Metter, 1946-1947. The Twenties Originally the mainstation clubhouse was a two-story house-boat, known as the Snuss House, moored at the north end of the current entry ramp.  Rowboats were stored on the bottom floor and the clubhouse was on the second floor.  At this time the monthly meetings were for men only and it is rumored that there were 6 ‘one-armed bandits’ in the clubhouse!  The Snuss House eventually left for a moorage in the Eastbay area, around 1940. The Olympia American Legion Band was formed in 1925 and played their first civil event at the OYC Opening Day in 1925.  They have played every Opening Day since that time. The first Capital to Capital Predicted Log Race, 908 miles from Olympia to Juneau, was held in 1928.  The 50th anniversary of the race, renamed the International Cruiser Race, was held in 1978.  John Pierce, of OYC, won the 1928 race and Adolph Schmidt, also of OYC and one of the Schmidt family who owned the Olympia Brewery, won his class as well (and his navigator was Charles Chapman, the man who wrote the Chapman Guide to Boating, still considered the bible of boating).  Adolph Schmidt won the race overall in 1931 and Dr. Frank Van Guilder won in 1947. The Thirties The first permanent mainstation clubhouse was built on pilings in 1932, in the area where we currently store carts.  This later became the first caretaker’s cottage, when the first land-based clubhouse was built, in 1938.  The lighthouse on this structure was built to house a signal light from the old wooden drawbridge that connected downtown Olympia to the Westside before the first permanent Fourth Avenue bridge was constructed.  This building is now the caretaker’s cottage. The Fifties In 1954 the initiation fee was $50 and there were fewer than 100 members. In 1958 the club purchased 21 acres with 750 feet of no-bank beach on Hartstine Island for its first outstation, at Flamingo Cove.  The cove was named for member Roy Kimbel’s boat, Flamingo, in honor of his efforts to find, purchase and improve the property.  Buoys, floats and upland facilities were established.  This was used for 13 years, but its southerly exposure meant that it was very uncomfortable in the winter, severely limiting the outstation’s usefulness. Originally the mainstation tide grids and a launching ramp were situated at the east end of the parking lot.  Many of the older boathouses at the club were built on the ramp and launched with fork lifts. The Sixties The current mainstation clubhouse was built in 1962, and paid for with member bonds. On October 12, 1962 the infamous Columbus Day storm struck Olympia, with winds of up to 70 knots (in some parts of the Pacific Northwest speeds of 170 mph were believed to have occurred, although the wind speed gauges disintegrated at 130 mph)!  The 400 dock broke loose and was only saved due to the sinking of a boathouse that acted as an anchor.  Gale Wagner in Chipper Boy assisted by running his boat against the dock until it could be secured.  Another boathouse broke free from the 100 dock and slammed into the 300 dock, fortunately causing only minimal damage.  OYC actually faired well in the storm: the Westbay Marina was completely destroyed, with parts of it being blown out to Squaxin Island. Boats were smaller, fuel was cheaper and the budget for 1963 was $17,880 with revenues of $20,495.  In 1964 there were only 135 members and the Commodore’s Ball cost $6 per couple.  And gasoline was only about 30 cents per gallon. A brief (and possibly apocryphal) history of Foofaraw (from the Olympia Chamber of Commerce’s point of view): Foofaraw, the club’s annual celebration for the local military, began in the ‘60s and continues to this day, having grown in both participation by club members and enjoyment by the military.  The stories behind the beginning of Foofaraw vary but include the late PC Dick Lewis working with the Olympia Chamber of Commerce to find some way to both honor the military and make Olympia more attractive to them at the same time.  It has evolved into a day long celebration, sporting event and salmon barbecue that attracts more than 200 military and Chamber participants. John W. ‘Bill’ Johnson worked for the Thurston county Chamber of Commerce back in the sixties.  Some called him the ‘Executive Secretary’, others the ‘Chamber Manager’.  Although Bill has since passed away, when his spirit looks down on Olympia each September he must smile with the satisfaction of knowing that Foofaraw, his idea more than fifty years ago, has become one of the Chamber’s most enjoyable annual events and is remembered warmly by military men and women stationed around the world. Bill’s idea surfaced one morning in the coffee shop at the Olympia Hotel, where so many conversations over coffee were about Chamber matters.  Johnson said ‘I have an idea on how the Chamber can make some good contacts with the military at Fort Lewis, Madigan Army Hospital, and McChord Air Force base’.  So on a sunny Friday morning in September of 1962, a small fleet of about 15 boats headed north on Budd Inlet. One dictionary defines Foofaraw as ‘much ado about nothing’ and, at one point in history the official ‘purpose’ of the day, said a ‘Foorarite has earned the right to say ‘Foo’ to all duties and responsibilities for one day each year.’ Foofarites gather at the Olympia Yacht Club the morning of the first Friday after Labor Day each year.  Each skipper tells Foofaraw planners how many guests his or her boat can accommodate and they assign a mix of military and Chamber participants to their host’s boats.  Each Chamber member pays a hosting fee to attend Foofaraw.  Those fees assist in paying for the food and refreshments. After a period of athletic events, watching those events and much socializing, Foofarites enjoy the traditional barbecued salmon, baked beans, salads and garlic bread.  A big favorite are the wonderful cookies provided by the Yacht Club Cookie Ladies.  There’s plenty for everyone and even the most diet-conscious Foofarite is tempted to try ‘just a little bit more’. After some more casual athletics and a lot more socializing, the thoroughly fed and relaxed Foofarites wander back to their boats for the leisurely cruise back to Olympia.  Most get back to the Yacht Club about five that afternoon.  Everyone seems to linger, not wanting to see such a wonderful day end and not wanting to say goodbye to his or her newly found shipmates and friends. The Chamber gives each military installation a quota of people they can bring.  The quota fills quickly.  One military commander said the easiest job he ever had was filling his quota for Foofaraw. The Seventies In the late ‘60s interest arose in finding a better outstation site and several properties were examined before one member happened to notice that the island across Pickering Passage from Flamingo Cove was for sale.  The house was of no known architectural style and appeared to have several ‘mystery’ rooms and the tiny dock attached to the bridge would go dry at low tide.  In 1971 this property, now known as Island Home, was purchased for $10,000 plus the old property on Hartstine Island.  At the time the vote was very close and many were convinced that the club had made a poor investment! The Rich History of Yacht Clubs Solve your problem now and skip the article by chatting with a Mavyn expert, or keep reading below. Hello! I'm here to solve your problem. You can ask me any question or describe your issue. The Rich History of Yacht Clubs: Exploring Traditions and Prestige Yacht clubs are more than just a hub for boating enthusiasts; they are institutions rich in history, tradition, and social prestige. From their origins in the early 17th century to their current status as symbols of luxury and community, yacht clubs have played a significant role in maritime culture and social networking. This article delves into the fascinating history of yacht clubs, exploring how they have evolved and what makes them so prestigious. Shop Boat Accessories Now Origins and Early History The concept of yacht clubs began in the 17th century with the formation of the first recorded yacht club, the Neva Yacht Club, established by Tsar Peter the Great in Russia in 1718. However, it was the establishment of the Royal Cork Yacht Club in Ireland in 1720 that marked the beginning of yacht clubs as we know them today. This club is widely recognized as the oldest in the world. Key Developments: 1720 : The Royal Cork Yacht Club was established. 1815 : The Royal Yacht Squadron in Cowes, England, was founded, becoming a model for subsequent yacht clubs around the world. 1844 : The New York Yacht Club was founded, introducing yacht racing as a principal activity. Shop Marine Electronics Now Evolution Through the Centuries As the popularity of yachting grew, yacht clubs began to sprout up in coastal cities around the world. These clubs became central to social life among the elite, offering a venue for both competitive sailing and social gatherings. Notable Milestones: 1851 : The America’s Cup began, organized by the Royal Yacht Squadron, becoming the most prestigious yacht racing event in the world. Late 19th Century : Yacht clubs played a key role in advancing yacht design and technology. Shop Boats Now Traditions and Ceremonies Yacht clubs are known for their strict traditions and ceremonies, which have been preserved over the centuries. These traditions often include: Opening Day : Marking the start of the sailing season with a boat parade and blessing of the fleet. Regattas : Competitive sailing events that are both social and sporting occasions. Uniforms : Many clubs have specific dress codes and uniforms that reflect their maritime heritage. Modern-Day Prestige Today, yacht clubs remain symbols of prestige and exclusivity. Membership can be highly selective, often requiring sponsorship by current members and adherence to club traditions. Shop Boat Trailers Now Examples of Prestigious Yacht Clubs: Yacht Club de Monaco : Known for its association with the Monaco royal family. Royal Yacht Squadron : Maintains a reputation as one of the most exclusive yacht clubs in the world. St. Francis Yacht Club in San Francisco : Famous for its stunning views and competitive sailing events. The history of yacht clubs is a testament to their enduring appeal and the role they play in the maritime and social traditions. Whether you are a sailing enthusiast or simply fascinated by their rich heritage, yacht clubs offer a unique glimpse into the world of maritime prestige. Shop Boat Safety Horns Now For those interested in exploring more about yacht clubs or seeking expert advice on yachting, Mavyn offers both AI and human expert help services. Chat with Mavyn GPT or connect with a human expert to dive deeper into the luxurious world of yacht clubs and sailing. Preparing your chat... History of the Club The Seaside Park Yacht Club (SPYC) was incorporated in 1899 to promote yachting and rowing, to foster athletic sports upon the water, and to promote the general prosperity of Seaside Park.  For well more than a century SPYC has fulfilled that mission. The distinctive club house, built on pilings in the bay, is home to a thriving membership of sailors and those who share the Corinthian spirit. The original clubhouse was expanded in 1906 and that addition represents the current configuration of the building. Ideally situated on the open Barnegat Bay, SPYC was a founding member, in 1914, of the Barnegat Bay Yacht Racing Association (BBYRA) which brings together 14 yacht clubs on the bay in spirited competition among 12 different classes of racing boats. Throughout each summer hundreds of sailors of all ages and the dedicated regatta committee volunteers who run the races gather on the bay each Saturday to race. The culmination of each season’s competition is a celebration and awards ceremony at SPYC when trophies and flags are awarded and glasses are raised in celebration.                                            SPYC thrives on volunteerism and member participation that includes member run dinners, often home cooked, as well as elaborate theme parties that sell out to capacity.  Members are encouraged to join the after-dinner festivities which often include live music and a specialty drink. Sunsets on the porch are never a disappointment and Wednesday night and Sunday club races provide ample opportunity for members to get involved. Junior members hone their sailing skills in a summer long sailing instruction program that ensures that SPYC remains competitive on the bay and in the larger sailing community.  SPYC’s first Commodore in 1899 was mayor of Philadelphia and much of the early membership resided in Philadelphia, Philadelphia’s storied Main Line, and communities in New Jersey adjacent to Philadelphia.  Today a diverse membership draws from New York, northern New Jersey as well as Philadelphia and its suburbs. 239 IMAGES History 1862: One of the World’s Leading Yacht Clubs is Launched in Australia A history in photos: The Lord Reading Yacht Club turns 76 New York Yacht Club The History of Arun Yacht Club History VIDEO Yacht club Viking-Jurmala, yacht clubs of the world#shorts When you join Sarasota Yacht Club you are part of the Florida Council of Yacht Clubs. What is that? Newport Yacht Club Yacht Clubs celebrate Opening Days Understanding "Yacht Club": More Than Just Boats! Yacht clubs of the world-monsters on the water#shorts COMMENTS Yacht club A view of St. Petersburg by Alexey Zubov, 1716, shows yachts and war ships on the Neva River.. There is a long historical tradition behind yacht clubs. According to the date of establishment, the Neva Yacht Club, founded in 1718 in Russia, is the oldest yacht club. [1] However, since this Russian Yacht Club was established by a decree of Tsar Peter the Great, it does not fully qualify as a ... The History of Yacht Clubs: A Deep Dive into the ... The Formation of the First Yacht Clubs. The first yacht club was formed in the United Kingdom in 1720. The Royal Cork Yacht Club was established by William O'Brien, the 9th Lord Inchiquin. The club was originally known as the Water Club of the Harbour of Cork and was created to organize yacht races and promote sailing among the wealthy elite. America's 100 Oldest Yacht Clubs Boating Traditions: America's 100 Oldest Yacht Clubs. The development of yacht clubs in the 1800s is an important chapter of our boating and marina history in the U.S.—and tells us much about the country's early yearning for nature and community. July 20, 2022. By Joe Healy, [email protected]. What Are Yacht Clubs? The Ultimate Guide For Beginners Learn about the origins and evolution of yacht clubs, from the oldest in Ireland and England to the most prestigious in the US and Europe. Discover the facilities, events, and amenities of different types of yacht clubs and how to join them. The Top 50 Most Exclusive Yacht Clubs In The World Honored With Naples Yacht Club. Founded in 1947 and situated on Naples Bay, the Club has the proud distinction of being the city's first and oldest private club and its marina has 75 concrete floating docks ... History The Chicago Yacht Club was founded to encourage and promote the sport of yachting, yacht building and to conduct world-class sailing competitions and yachting activities. That was our charter in 1875, and it remains today. Today, the Chicago Yacht Club is ranked as one of the top 5 yacht clubs in the U.S. The Chicago Yacht Club maintains a wall ... History A Proud History - A Summary. In 1868, two years after the city of Portland was leveled by a fire that was the largest man-made disaster in American history up to that time, twenty-one sailors met in the office of W. W. "Whisker Bill" Thomas Jr. to discuss the formation of a yacht club. They decided that if they could attract 100 members ... History History of Seattle Yacht Club. Seattle Yacht Club is incorporated for the purpose of encouraging yachting and boating of all kinds, and the development of the recreational marine advantages of the Pacific Northwest. Founded in 1892, Seattle Yacht Club has prevailed over the rough seas of wars and endured the battering winds of economic storms ... History History - Buffalo Yacht Club. History. The opening of the Erie Canal in 1825 spurred the growth of Buffalo. The concomitant influx of yachtsmen from the East Coast nurtured the formation of the Buffalo Yacht Club. Early in August 1859 a small group initiated this action and on August 10, 1860 they adopted a constitution and by-laws naming John ... History History - Columbia Yacht Club. In 1892, Chicago was rebuilding from its disastrous fire, the world was wildly anticipating the Columbian Exposition, Daniel Burnham was advising city leaders to make no little plans, and a group of yachting enthusiasts organized what became formally known as Columbia Yacht Club. Ithaca Yacht Club The origins of the Ithaca Yacht Club date back to 1907. Here are two booklets that describe the history and traditions of the club. The Ithaca Yacht Club 1898 - 1975 by Pete McChesney, Bob Head, Gordon Wheeler, and George Dyke.; A History of the Ithaca Yacht Club 1907 - 2007 by Commodore Richie Moran and several other members. This booklet commemorated the 100th anniversary in 2007. A Brief History Founded in 1849 in Mississippi, Southern Yacht Club is the second oldest yacht club in the US. Learn about its origins, regattas, clubhouses, Olympic sailors and more. DEVELOPMENT HISTORY AND ARCHITECTURE OF YACHT-CLUBS Abstract. In this article relevance of design and the background of yacht-clubs emergence and development are viewed. The historical description of the fi rst world and russian yacht-clubs in ... A brief history of the St. Augustine Yacht Club Fittingly, the oldest yacht club in Florida is in the oldest city in the United States. In the 1880s that city would become the winter resort of the Gilded Age's rich and famous. And many had yachts. The Juneteenth General. By 1874, the St. Augustine Yacht Club was begun in earnest, with a Civil War hero as the first commodore. New York Yacht Club New York Yacht Club Building, 1901. The present primary clubhouse is the New York Yacht Club Building, a six-storied Beaux-Arts landmark with a nautical-themed limestone facade, at 37 West 44th Street in Midtown Manhattan.Opened in 1901, the clubhouse was designed by Warren and Wetmore (1898), who later helped design Grand Central Terminal. [8] The centerpiece of the clubhouse is the "Model ... History of the Southern Yacht Club A history and celebration of the New Orleans yacht club from the 1840s to the 1980s. The Southern Yacht Club of New Orleans is the second oldest in the United States. Since the club was officially organized as "boat club" on July 21, 1848, it has hosted countless regattas, supported other yacht clubs, and participated in inter-club competitions. History of the Yacht Learn how the yacht originated from the Dutch "jaghts" and became a sport of kings and later of the wealthy. Discover the first yacht clubs, the America's Cup, and the origins of recreational sailing. Toledo Yacht Club History. The Toledo Yacht Club is among the oldest yacht clubs in North America. The Toledo Yacht Club was founded in 1865 with the name of Toledo Boat Club when two rowing clubs, the Undines and the Naiads, joined together and turned their attention to sailing. The Toledo Yacht Club was incorporated on October 3, 1885. History The original clubhouse of the Sandusky Yacht Club, was situated near the foot of Columbus Ave. It was later moved out from shore and placed on cribbing. This created a semi-closed harbor for mooring boats. This structure served its purpose well until a tornado swept through Sandusky in the summer of 1924 and demolished most of the waterfront. A Summary of OYC's History Olympia Yacht Club was officially incorporated in 1904, with W.A. Van Epps as the first Commodore and was one of the first 14 Yacht Clubs in the Puget Sound. Only four members have served two terms as Commodore - R.L. Blankenship, 1923-1924; Walter Draham, 1930-1931; Ernest Mallory, 1932 and 1943; W.W Metter, 1946-1947. The Twenties. The Rich History of Yacht Clubs Origins and Early History. The concept of yacht clubs began in the 17th century with the formation of the first recorded yacht club, the Neva Yacht Club, established by Tsar Peter the Great in Russia in 1718. However, it was the establishment of the Royal Cork Yacht Club in Ireland in 1720 that marked the beginning of yacht clubs as we know ... The History of Yacht Racing in Minnesota: How Its Sailors and Boat As a first-ever written history of its kind, this book looks back at the historical role four Twin Cities lakes, its boat designers and builders, and yacht clubs and local champion sailors played in helping establish the sport of yacht racing in America, and helped advance the sport to where it is today in Minneapolis/St. Paul, the Midwestand United States. History History of the Club. The Seaside Park Yacht Club (SPYC) was incorporated in 1899 to promote yachting and rowing, to foster athletic sports upon the water, and to promote the general prosperity of Seaside Park. For well more than a century SPYC has fulfilled that mission. The distinctive club house, built on pilings in the bay, is home to a ... Yachtclub Ein Yachtclub (auch Yacht Club oder Yacht-Club) ist ein Sportverein, der sich auf Segeln oder Motorbootfahren spezialisiert hat. Die meisten Yachtclubs haben einen eigenen Hafen oder sind in einem größeren Hafen beheimatet. Kleinere Vereine verfügen teils auch nur über eine Wiese an Land, auf der beispielsweise Jollen abgestellt werden, die über eine Slipanlage ins Wasser gelassen werden. catamaran gulet motorboat powerboat riverboat trimaran yacht