THE ROYAL MERSEY YACHT CLUB
'Princess Royal,' steamer 'Leda,' 'Seagull,' 'Hebe,' 'Phœbe.'
First race of Mersey Yacht Club, June 16, 1845.
'Queen of the Ocean,' R.M.Y.C., Commodore Littledale,
saving emigrants from 'Ocean Monarch,' August 24, 1848.
This club, which was established in 1844, originally had its headquarters at Liverpool, the first commodore having been Dr. Grinwood, whose brother is now the only original member left. About 1878 the club quarters were moved to a large house in Birkenhead, close to the river, on the banks of which a pavilion has been constructed, as well as a large slip and two gridirons. During the whole time the club has only had two honorary secretaries, the past and the present. To the late secretary, Mr. Henry Melling, we are indebted for the two illustrations (p. 47); he drew and published them himself, much to his credit, as valuable data showing the rig of the time. The annual regatta is generally held at the latter end of June, the great drawback to Liverpool yachting being the tides and the bar, to diminish which great efforts are being made by dredging on an enormous scale. 1893 was the Jubilee Regatta. This was a great success. 'Britannia,' 'Satanita,' 'Iverna,' took part in the races, which were accompanied by the club steamer, carrying the Commodore, Col. Gamble, C.B., and the Hon. Secretary, Captain James Gladstone.
ROYAL MERSEY YACHT CLUB.
Yacht Club Burgees.
The first illustration is most interesting as bearing the names of the yachts which sailed in the first match of the club, Monday, June 16, 1845. The bowlines on the luff of the gaff topsails should be particularly noticed as a feature of this period. The bowline is also shown in the drawing of the 'Cygnet,' 35 tons, in a following chapter on Thames Clubs.
The second outline represents the 'Queen of the Ocean' yacht, Commodore Littledale, R.M.Y.C., going to the rescue of the 'Ocean Monarch,' emigrant ship, on fire in Abergele Bay, North Wales, Thursday, August 24, 1848.
THE ROYAL PORTSMOUTH CORINTHIAN YACHT CLUB
By G. L. Blake
What the Clyde is to Scotland, and Kingstown and Queenstown are to Ireland, that the Solent and Southampton Water (which constitute the waters more or less shut off from the Channel by the Isle of Wight) are to the South of England. It is no matter of wonderment, then, that attempts should have been made from time to time, and dating back some generations, to form clubs which would have for their express purpose the encouragement of seamanship, and the racing and building of yachts.
To many old yachtsmen the 'ups and downs' of some of these societies which are still in existence form a history of no small interest; while the rise, doings, and fall of those now defunct ought to teach many valuable and important lessons to the officers and committees that are working hard for the prosperity and welfare of present day yacht clubs.
The club which above all others has tended to encourage the proficiency of amateur salts, so that they have become capable of manning, piloting, and steering their own or their friends' vessels to glory, is the Royal Portsmouth Corinthian Yacht Club. Instituted at a time when small-yacht sailing and amateur seamanship had little or no patronage from the big clubs, and when no ruling spirit appeared willing to come forward to help them on to any great degree, when the annual local regattas of the Itchen Ferry, Ryde, and Cowes Town, Southampton, and a few other seaside resorts, were the only opportunities afforded for sport and racing among the small fry, perhaps no club deserves more notice among those south of London than the one in question. Its birth took place at a meeting held on Saturday, May 22, 1880, in the committee-room of the Prince of Wales Club, High Street, Portsmouth, under the patronage of the late Admiral Ryder, R.N., and General H.S.H. Prince Edward of Saxe-Weimar, at that time the Commander-in-Chief and Governor of Portsmouth, Rear-Admiral the Honourable F. A. C. Foley, R.N., and Major-General Sir F. Fitz-Wygram, with Captain Garrett, R.A., in the chair. A provisional committee was elected, among whom were Messrs. W. Gilman, C. Johnson, Thomas and Charles McCheane, F. Ruck, R.E., W. C. Storey, W. V. Dickenson, 69th Regiment, J. Bewicke, 69th Regiment, Colonel Savory, Admiral Hallowes, Commander Britten, R.N., H.M.S. 'St. Vincent,' Captains Sutton, R. Kennedy, Rasch, the Reverends C. P. Grant, Vicar of Portsmouth, and J. F. Brown, R.C. Military Chaplain. General Prince Edward of Saxe-Weimar, Captain Garrett and Captain Sutton were the first officers appointed to serve as Commodore, Vice- and Rear-commodores, and Messrs. Gilman and C. McCheane with Captain Kennedy undertook other duties. Among the yachts owned at that period by the young club, the best known were the 'Vega,' 40 tons, belonging to Captain Garrett; Mr. Gilman's little 'Zephyr,' 11 tons (for many seasons one of the fastest of the old 12-ton class); and the 'Zoe,' one of the most successful 21-ft. boats on the Solent, which was fortunate in being owned and piloted by one of the best amateur helmsmen and sailormen in the south of England—the late Mr. C. Johnson, of Gosport.
ROYAL PORTSMOUTH CORINTHIAN YACHT CLUB.
At the third meeting the Yacht Racing Association rules were adopted, while the fourth settled that very much vext and troublesome question as to what constitutes 'a yachting amateur,' and accordingly drew out the rule that 'No person shall be considered an amateur who has been at any time engaged in the navigation or sailing of a yacht for pay,' the wording of which has since been altered to the following: 'An amateur is a gentleman who has never received pay for sailing in a fore-and-aft vessel, officers of the Royal Navy and Mercantile Marine excepted.' At the same meeting Mr. C. McCheane undertook the sole duties of honorary secretary in place of Captain Kennedy.
On June 26, 1880, the first regatta of the newly formed club was held, when five events were pulled off under the most favourable auspices. So successful was this first attempt at bringing the local boats together, that the next regatta, which was similar in its classes, brought out no fewer than eight entries in the race for the service boats of Her Majesty's ships, all of which were steered by naval members of the club, with the one exception of the 'Wren,' which, it is interesting to chronicle, was steered by Miss Foley, daughter of the Admiral commanding the Portsmouth Steam Reserve. She was the first lady member, and one of the first ladies—if indeed there was one before her—to pilot home the winning yacht in a race. Now that so many ladies enter into the sport of yacht racing and come out as famous helmswomen, the position held by Miss Foley is one to be proud of. In the fourth race Mr. Baden-Powell's old boat, the 'Diamond,' 5 tons, at this time owned by Messrs. Sutton, put in an appearance as a 25-ft. boat; and in the fifth race Mr. J. H. Baillie's 20-ft. boat 'Kate,' the earliest of Mr. Beavor Webb's outputs, entered.
'Madge,' 10 tons. Designed by G. L. Watson, 1880.
Midship section
Besides periodical regattas, the club was able to take in hand a good many matches, which were made up whenever a sufficient number of racing yachts to create sport happened to be lying off Southsea or about the port, and good prizes were always forthcoming, for, as is the case in the Royal Alfred Yacht Club of Kingstown, all money was devoted at this time to racing purposes. The match held on the 14th of August, 1880, is a very fair example of what these extemporaneous races were like. It was for yachts of 20 tons and under. The entries included: 'Madge,' 10 tons, Mr. J. Coats; 'Louise,' 20 tons; 'Euterpe,' 20 tons, Mr. Bayley; 'Freda,' 20 tons, Mr. Freke; 'Maggie,' 15 tons, Mr. Taylor; 'Viola,' 20 tons, Mr. Kelly; 'Sayonara,' 20 tons, Mr. G. W. Richardson. By the end of the first season the club had advanced to such a strong position in the eyes of yachting men and in the public estimation, that Her Majesty was pleased to accede to the request of the Commodore, Prince Edward of Saxe-Weimar, to have it made a Royal club, and accordingly commanded that from May 27, 1880, the club should be styled the Royal Portsmouth Corinthian Yacht Club. Except perhaps in the cases of the Royal Cork, the Royal Yacht Squadron and Royal Highland, no yachting club has ever been known to grow so rapidly into popularity as to obtain the Royal warrant within the space of less than six months.
The season of 1881 began on April 6 with a yacht tonnage of 3,569 tons and 220 members belonging to the club. The year was an important one in its annals, for some of the best known of yachtsmen became members of the community. Captain Garrett gave up the Vice-Commodoreship, and was succeeded by Captain F. Sutton, late 11th Hussars, whilst Admiral Byng undertook the office vacated by Captain Sutton.
The greater number of those who had up to this time joined the Royal Portsmouth Corinthian Yacht Club were yachting members, and lived in all parts of the United Kingdom. The opening regatta was held on the glorious 4th of June, so dear to Eton and other memories. It witnessed the entry, in the race for yachts of 11 to 25 tons, of that favourite old 20-ton clipper the 'Vanessa,' and the old Fairlie 25-tonner 'Santry.' The courses this year finished between a mark-boat and the Southsea Pier.
At the third regatta another famous old ship threw down the glove to the 'Gadfly' and Mr. Arthur Glennie's 'Sonata,' viz. the 16-ton 'Satanella.' On August 13, by the special command of Her Majesty, the club had the honour of holding its Annual Royal Regatta in Osborne Bay. The entries were large for all the items of the programme, no fewer than twelve boats starting in a class for 30 ft. and under, and thirty-one for the race for centreboarders. In this last race the Prince of Wales sailed his little crack 'Belle Lurette,' and won the second prize. In the race for yachts of 40 tons and upwards the 'Samœna,' 'Annasona,' and 'Sleuthhound' started. It may be stated here, that on the day of the regatta the club had 400 names on its list of members, the greater number of whom claimed some pretensions to being yachtsmen. This was a rapid increase of 180 in less than four months, and distinctly proved that the club was already satisfactorily filling the much-desired need on the Solent, and it was most gratifying to those who had given their time and their energy towards the success of the venture that nothing but praise poured in from all quarters, because of the perfect organisation with which all regattas, matches, and general arrangements were carried out. Perhaps it is not too much to say here that the club owed much at this period of its existence to its honorary secretary, the late Mr. Charles McCheane, whose unflagging zeal and well-known gift of organisation helped to a very considerable extent to bring about the prestige which it was beginning to enjoy.
One great feature of the season of 1881 was the addition of a rule allowing any boat that had been hired by a member for a space of over three months to enter for the club races, in order to give every encouragement to the sport of yacht-racing. Many have been the times that such a rule has been begged for by yachtsmen, especially tiros at the game; but the Yacht Racing Association, and, in fact, all Royal Yacht Clubs with the exception of the Royal Portsmouth Corinthian, have placed a veto on any proposition which included in any way its introduction. With the Royal Portsmouth Corinthian the rule proved in the early days of the club a great success, but latterly, as yacht tonnage was added to the club and members became provided with their own ships, the rule gradually died out, till at last it has disappeared altogether from the Book of Rules and Regulations.
The year 1882 was notable chiefly for the introduction of a new class in the regatta programmes, viz. that for 3-tonners. Four of these little vessels did battle in all kinds of weather and proved most successfully how much power and what fine sea-going qualities can be obtained by length and depth with almost a minimum of beam. Mr. Wynne Eyton and Mr. Quilter designed and raced the composite built 'Mascotte,' Mr. A. W. Courtney the 'Naiad,' the late Lord Francis Cecil the 'Chittywee,' and Lord Ailsa and Mr. Baden-Powell the 'Snarley Yow.' Of these the 'Chittywee' was the best all-round boat, though the 'Mascotte' gave her all she could do to beat her.
In the small length classes, the 20-ft. 'Kate,' which had become the property of the Honorary Secretary during the winter of 1881, came to the fore in a remarkable manner, saving her time when necessary, and giving all comers a fair beating. The next year, however, witnessed her total defeat by Mr. Popham's little 'Bird of Freedom,' a boat that is still to the fore.
The Annual Royal Regatta of 1883 was held as before at Osborne Bay, and proved a complete success, and the club could now boast of a patronage second only to that of the Royal Yacht Squadron. The programme on August 11, the day of the regatta, exhibited a great advance on those of the two previous years, as the classes ranged more after the fashionable formulæ, viz. for yachts of 40 tons and under, 20 and over 14, 14 and over 9 tons. The race for 40-ton yachts fell through, but was afterwards sailed on August 22, when the 'Annasona,' 'Tara,' 'Sleuthhound,' 'Phryne,' and 'Silver Star' crossed the line, and 'Tara' and 'Silver Star' (their first appearance under the flag of the Royal Portsmouth Club) came in first and second. Among the twenties, which showed up for the first time, were the 'Freda' and two well-known old warriors from St. George's Channel, the 'Quickstep' and 'Challenge.' In the race for 10-tonners the 'Ulidia,' designed by Mr. W. Fife, jun., was the new addition to the club, and she fought it out with the 'Buttercup,' this latter favourite being thoroughly beaten on all points of sailing.
During the year of 1884 the prosperity of the club was decidedly on the increase. In the first place, during the winter, the premises in the High Street, Portsmouth, which had up to this time formed the Prince of Wales's Club House, had been bought, altered and improved to suit the club's requirements. As it stands now, it is one of the most comfortable club-houses in the South of England.
The club also opened on Southsea Beach a Station House of its own, which has telephonic communications with the house in High Street, and all parts of the towns of Portsmouth and Southampton. It consists of a railed-off space, sufficient to allow of a fair frontage, besides room for the flagstaff, guns, and all such necessary fittings. The building is a very comfortable cabin, with all modern conveniences. The telephonic communication with Southampton is of the greatest possible service, as most of the small raters make the Itchen and its precincts their home.
On June 7 in this year, the custom (which has now died out) of having an opening cruise under the club officers was originated. Nothing can make up for the teaching which manœuvring under sail affords, and it is a great pity more of such cruises do not take place, and that at regular intervals.
The officers of the club had remained the same up to this year, when Admiral Byng gave up the Rear-Commodoreship in favour of Mr. J. R. West. One of the great features of the season was the recognition of the foot classes, which became so popular during the following four years. The first and second regattas introduced races for boats or yachts of 25 feet and 30 feet on the load water-line. In the latter class the 'Eclipse' and 'Keepsake' were competitors, the 'Eclipse' being the better of the two boats; and in the former the 'Daphne,' 'Wave,' and 'Lil' were the three to race, the 'Lil' being the principal winner. The Annual Royal Regatta, owing to the sad bereavement that had visited the Court, took place by royal command off Bembridge, instead of in Osborne Bay as heretofore. No fewer than fourteen items constituted the programme, of which the most interesting was the ten-ton match between the 'Ulidia' and 'Ulerin,' representatives of Messrs. Fife and Watson, the great Scotch yacht designers. On August 16 a fine match was brought off, and the amateurs' powers put to the test, when 'A Corinthian Plate,' a very handsome piece of silver work, weighing 134 ozs., was sailed for by the 'Genesta,' 'Marguerite,' and 'Irex.'
Perhaps the most sporting matches that have been sailed under the red burgee with crown, star, and half-moon in centre, were three that sprang out of a race for yachts of 20 tons and under, and took place at the last regatta of the season. On this occasion the 'Enriqueta,' 20-ton (cutter that was, but at this time a) yawl, snatched, by some few seconds on time allowance, first honours from the old 'Quickstep.' On the Monday following the regatta a friendly match was sailed between the two vessels, ending with the same result as on the Saturday. Two matches were then arranged to be sailed on the next and following days, the conditions of which were that amateurs alone were to man one yacht, while professionals were to take charge of the other. No pilot was to be allowed, and the prize was to be 1l. from each amateur should the professionals win, and a sixpenny pipe from each professional should the amateurs be successful. Lots to be drawn for the choice of yacht in the first race, yachts to be exchanged for the second.
The result of the lots on the Tuesday gave the amateurs the choice of ships, and they took the 'Enriqueta.' The course was across an imaginary line from the Signal Station flagstaff to the mark-boat, round the Spit buoy, Warner Lightship and East Sturbridge buoy, leaving all on the starboard hand, thence round the Spit buoy and mark-boat on port hand, to finish between the mark-boat on port hand and Signal Station. Twice round, 20 miles.
'IREX'
64 tons (John Jameson, Esq.) Designed by Alex. Richardson, 1884.
The wind was light from the south-east. The professionals in the 'Quickstep' were the first over the line, but it was before the gun fired, and they had to recross it. This was not taken advantage of by the 'Enriqueta,' for the yacht, just as the gun fired, was, for some unaccountable reason, kept in irons quite two minutes by her helmsman. The 'Enriqueta' was steered by her owner and Major Urquhart. The 'Quickstep' won by 12 mins. 13 secs. On the following day the conditions were identical, except that the yachts were exchanged. The tide, wind, and weather were the same as on the Tuesday. Both yachts crossed the line at the same time. 'Enriqueta' held the weather berth, and, hugging the mark-boat, went about at once; but 'Quickstep,' by a very pretty piece of steering on the part of Mr. Maxwell Heron, was put about and brought on 'Enriqueta's' weather. 'Enriqueta' got away again under 'Quickstep's' lee, owing to the latter having her sails too closely pinned in. This error was fortunately rectified, and the 'Quickstep,' with sheets slightly checked, at once sprang ahead and forereached on the yawl, but not sufficiently to prevent the 'Enriqueta,' when off Southsea Castle, from going about and crossing 'Quickstep's' bow, a proceeding which, had it not been for the fine helmsmanship displayed, must have ended in a collision. When the yawl tacked the next time, however, the 'Quickstep' was to windward once more, and led round the Warner Lightship by 4 mins. The mark-boat was rounded at the end of the first round by the 'Quickstep' 14 mins. 15 secs. ahead of the 'Enriqueta.' On the second round the wind fell light, shifting and flukey, and, except that the 'Quickstep' won, offered no very interesting points of sailing worth noting. Such matches as the foregoing are worth repeating; for it is when acting in competition with men who make fore-and-aft sailing their business that amateurs find out the value of their seafaring knowledge, and can accordingly gauge their strength and learn to amend their weak points.
In 1885 the first regatta—and regattas now took place once a fortnight regularly—was memorable for the maiden races of the 'Elma' among the service boats, and the 'Syren' in the 25-ft. class. The 'Elma' had been an open whale-shaped admiral's barge. She was rigged with dipping lugs, and manned by sub-lieutenants from H.M.S. 'Excellent.' The writer had the privilege of seeing her work her way to Bembridge late in the season, and the smart manner in which the boat was handled, and the lugs lowered, dipped, and hoisted, was one of the prettiest sights of the season.
The second regatta witnessed the début of the two latest additions to the 30-ft. class—the 'Curtsey' and 'Yum Yum.' The 'Curtsey' proved herself the best boat of her year.
It was during this year that the new A, B, C classes were, for the first time, given a prominent place in the regatta programmes. These severally were supposed to include the full-blown racer, the out-of-date racer, and the ordinary cruiser. The idea was to try to create a method by which all yacht-owners might have an opportunity of joining in yacht racing. The system proved only a partial success, and the real gainers by the innovation, if there were any, were the sailmakers, who were kept employed, owing to many an 'old box' requiring spinnakers and other light muslin quite foreign to their original sail-plan.
The fourth regatta of the season took place away from the port, and off the new watering-place, Lee-on-Solent. The principal course started from over an imaginary line lying between the committee vessel and a flagstaff at Lee-on-Solent, round the north-east and east Middle buoy, the west Middle buoy, round the Bramble buoys, omitting the Thorn, Calshot Lightship, and Hill Head buoy, to pass between the committee vessel and shore, leaving all marks on the starboard hand; three times round.
On July 25, the first club match round the Isle of Wight took place. It was open to all yachts of 9 tons and upwards in the B and C classes. Two of Fairlie's old clippers came out in new feathers for this race, the 'Neptune' and 'Fiona'; and the former not only in this, but in many another thrash round a course during this and the following seasons, kept well in the van and showed that age had in no way been detrimental to her speed. The Royal Regatta was again held off Bembridge on August 8, when for the 10-tonners' prize the 'Queen Mab,' and in the 5-ton class the pretty 'Cyprus,' showed their wonderful weatherly qualities. The day is one that will long be remembered by those who took part in the trips round the Nab. The course, for all the classes from 5 tons and upwards, was from an imaginary line between the committee boat and H.M.S. 'Speedy,' round the Warner Lightship, the Dean Tail buoy and Nab Lightship, leaving all to starboard, to finish between the committee vessel on the port hand and the 'Speedy'; twice round. The weather was boisterous, with half a gale of wind blowing from the southward and westward. There was a nasty cross sea off the Nab, which frightened more than one hardy salt from making a start, and the owners of the 30-ft. yachts did their best to have their course shortened. The only accident, which might have turned out disastrous, was the capsizing of the 'Elma,' when making a board off the Nab Lightship. She was, however, righted, bailed out, and one by one all her crew got on board.
'Neptune,' cutter, 50 tons. Built by Fife, 1875.
Midship section
The next year (1886) exhibited a still further advance in the well-being of the club. The number of regattas during the season was increased from eight to ten, exclusive of matches and the annual Royal Regatta, which this year took place at Stokes Bay. Numerous new and old yachts were added to the club tonnage, for the B and C classes began to fill, and many a forgotten old heroine was made to come out and don her long-left-off racing suits. Of those which thus appeared all spick and span were the 'May,' 40 tons; 'Foxhound,' 35 tons; 'Veronica,' 92 tons; 'Terpsichore,' 38 tons; 'Leander' and 'Nadejola,' twenties; and 'Naiad' and 'Lily,' old Mersey tens. Of the new yachts the 'Hyacinth' was the fruit of the new classification, as she was designed and built by Mr. Arthur Payne, to race in the B class. This was the last year that any yachts were built to the 25-ft. and 21-ft. classes, the 'Verena,' 25 ft., and the 'Minima,' and 'Volador,' 21 ft., being the last that were laid down on the stocks.
The number of members up to this date had been steadily on the increase, so that by the end of the year the list had reached over 600. Since the club had started in 1880, over 73 regattas and matches had been held, and more than 2,600l. given in prizes—a past history such as few, if any, of the older clubs can show.
In 1887 the Yacht Racing Association rating rule came into force, and though some races were provided for the 25-ft. class, still the main racing was among the A, B, and C and rater classes. The 'Thalassa' and 'Stella' were the first representatives of the 2½-raters, the 'Sybil,' 26 tons, and 'Mary,' 25 tons, coming out to wrest the prizes from the 'Hyacinth.'
The next year it was found quite impossible to suit all owners so as to fill every event on a programme. This was owing to there still being a tonnage class, A, B and C, the new rating and the length classes. The consequence was that only seven regattas came off during the season, exclusive of the Royal Regatta, which was again held at Bembridge. During the season of 1888, the question of shifting keels was brought before the club committee, and a hard fight was made to have them abolished. There was the same curious assortment of classes as in the preceding year, because the rating rule had not as yet taken hold of the yacht-racing public.
By 1889 so great had become the popularity of the club and the demand for membership that it was decided to raise the annual subscription to 2l. 2s., with an entrance fee of 5l. 5s. for non-yacht-owners, and 2l. 2s. for yacht-owners. The rating classes had now come into full swing, and the season started with a match for 20-raters, unique, in that it brought together no fewer than five newly launched competitors, viz.: the 'Chiqueta,' 'Dragon,' 'Ghost,' 'Siola,' and 'Velzie.' By the third regatta eight 2½-raters were ready for the fray, seven of which were new boats that season—'Cock-a-whoop,' 'Cosette,' 'Humming Bird,' 'Madcap,' 'Nadador,' 'Heathen Chinee,' and 'Musume.' Among the 10-raters were the old 5-ton flyer 'Doris,' now swelled out to meet the more modern school, 'Fantan,' 'Dis,' 'Decima,' and 'Ethel.' The new 'Blue Belle,' 'Tar Baby,' and sometimes the 'Thief,' formed the 5-rating class.
The event of the season was the handicap race for the Cup given by the Queen, which took place on August 10. It was open to yachts of 20 tons and over, and 17 started. The course chosen lay to the eastward, from an imaginary line between the flagstaff on the Spit Fort, and the committee boat, round the Nab Lightship, west buoy of the middle and committee vessel, leaving all on the starboard hand, to finish between the committee vessel and the Spit buoy. There was a strong south-westerly breeze blowing all day, which suited the large yachts well, and some of the finest sailing of the year was witnessed by those who were fortunate enough to follow the race.
Nothing of note occurred during the 1890 period of the club's history. The match which took place on August 2, for yachts rated at 40 tons and over, was the most successful of the season, for it brought together all the large cracks of the year, viz. the 'Iverna,' 119, 'Thistle,' 120, 'Valkyrie,' 76, and 'Yarana,' 72. The 5-rater class proved a very full one, the leading yacht architects sending out as representatives of their skill the 'Valentine,' 'Glycera,' 'Quinque,' 'Alwida,' 'Archee,' and 'Fair Geraldine.' The 2½-rater class received as new additions the 'Troublesome,' 'Babe,' 'Janetta,' 'Dolphin,' 'Camilla,' and 'G.G.' A class, however, which gave a fund of amusement, and was allowed a place in the club's programmes for the first time this year, was the ½-rater. No fewer than ten little boats formed its racing fleet, and were always ready to cross the line whenever a prize and race were offered them.
In 1891 these mosquitoes had a Champion Cup presented to them by Mr. Blair Cochrane, and eleven started at the third regatta of the season for this trophy, which was won by the little 'Kittiwake,' the 'Coquette' coming in second. Another new class, for 1-raters, was started this year, but only four competitors composed it, among them being the 'Kelpie,' 'Samœna,' and 'Unit.' The Royal Regatta was held at Wootton Creek on August 8, and the annual race round the Island was perhaps the best race of the season. It will be seen that, after the rating rule came into force, racing among old cast-offs found no further favour in the eyes of the community, and as an example of the modern programme, the following on the next page, which is that of the Royal Regatta, is a very good specimen.
Of the sailing committee, which has done so much good work, there are names that have appeared on its list as serving members almost from the time a sailing committee was first formed. Capt. Sutton, the honoured Vice-Commodore, and Mr. Gilman, the Hon. Treasurer, deserve first mention, as they have been office-holders from the foundation of the club, and Mr. Gilman's name appears in the earliest committee list. Admiral Hallowes and Major Bulkeley are next in order of seniority. Capt. Hayes, R.N., Messrs. Crampton and A. H. Glennie (the latter is the present Rear-Commodore) follow in order, while Capt. Nottage, Messrs. Flemmich, Laity, Walford, and Wildy bring up the rear. The membership of a sailing committee of such a club as the Royal Portsmouth Corinthian is no sinecure, and a man must be a keen yachtsman who will undertake the duties entailed.
'YARANA' (NOW 'MAID MARION').
72 tons. Designed by G. L. Watson, 1883.
ROYAL PORTSMOUTH CORINTHIAN YACHT CLUB
1891.
Commodore—General H.S.H. Prince Edward of Saxe-Weimar, G.C.B.
Vice-Commodore—Captain F. Sutton ('Gadfly,' 20 tons).
Rear-Commodore—J. R. West, Esq. ('Goshawk,' 239 tons).
THE ANNUAL REGATTA
Under the Patronage of their Royal Highnesses
THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES
Will take place (weather permitting)
OFF WOOTTON CREEK,
On Saturday, August 8th.
FIRST RACE—YACHTS of 40-rating.
Prize, Cup value Sixty Guineas, presented by A. H. Glennie, Esq. Helmsman, value 5l. 5s. Entrance fee, 3l.
SECOND RACE—HANDICAP—YACHTS of 60-rating and upwards.
First, value 50l. prizes presented by A. H. Glennie, Esq.
Second, value 25l. "
Entrance fee, 50s. Helmsman, value 5l. 5s., presented by F. C. Hill, Esq.
THIRD RACE—HANDICAP—YACHTS under 60-rating.
First Prize, value 25l., presented by Julian Senior, Esq.
Second Prize, value 10l. Entrance fee, 25s.
FOURTH RACE—YACHTS of 20-rating.
First Prize, value 20l., presented by S. M. Richards, Esq.
Second Prize, value 5l., presented by Lt.-Col. A. D. MacGregor. Entrance fee, 20s.
FIFTH RACE—YACHTS over 2½, but not exceeding 5-rating.
First Prize, a Silver Cup, presented by Captain A. K. Wilson R.N., V.C., C.B., and Officers H.M.S. 'Vernon.'
Second Prize, value 5l. 5s., presented by W. A. Beauclerk, Esq. Entrance fee, 15s.
SIXTH RACE—YACHTS not exceeding 2½-rating.
First Prize, the 'Fernie' Cup, value 10l. 10s. (presented by Mrs. Fernie in memory of the late Robertson Fernie, Esq.)
Second Prize, value 5l. 5s., presented by the Vice-Commodore, Captain F. Sutton. Entrance fee, 10s. 6d.
SEVENTH RACE—YACHTS of 1-rating.
First Prize, value 6l. 6s., presented by Rear-Admiral Hallowes.
Second Prize, value 2l. 2s., presented by Colonel F. J. Smith, R.E. Entrance fee, 6s.
EIGHTH RACE—YACHTS of ½-rating, belonging to any recognised Yacht Club.
First, value 3l. 3s. Prizes presented by Paul A. Ralli, Esq.
Second, value 2l. 2s. Entrance fee, 3s.
NINTH RACE—SERVICE YACHTS.
First Prize, value 5l. 5s., presented by A. G. Wildy, Esq.
Second Prize, value 2l. 2s. Entrance fee, 5s.
All Yachts must belong to the club, eighth and ninth races excepted. Yachts in all the races must be steered by Amateur Members of any recognised Yacht Club. The Races will be sailed according to Y.R.A. Rules. Exceptions, time of entry, two to compete or no race; four, or no second prize.
The second and third Races will be handicapped by the Committee without appeal.
That the naval officers who are honorary members have been valued friends to the club goes without saying. Nothing could exceed the interest that has been taken in the club's welfare by the Commodore, H.S.H. General Prince Edward of Saxe-Weimar, especially whilst in command at Portsmouth. Neither must the club's mainstay, the honorary secretary, Mr. John Main, be forgotten. Almost from the beginning Mr. Main had acted as under-secretary to the then honorary secretary, Mr. C. McCheane, and it is not too much to say that when acting in that capacity he was the kedge anchor to the club, and frequently on occasions was called upon to play the part of best bower. When Mr. McCheane resigned his office on July 14, 1887, after an interregnum of three months, during which Captain Haldane was made acting secretary, Mr. Main was chosen unanimously to fill the vacant office, and not only those connected with the club, but all who have had to hold communication with him, know how well its arduous duties have been performed. It is to this gentleman that the writer is indebted for help in compiling this notice.
With a commodious house, a signal station to keep up, and prizes to be provided (nearly 6,000l. have been given to be sailed for up to 1893), the expenses, it is needless to say, are great and tax the funds considerably. Money, however, is always forthcoming through the liberality displayed by many of the members. Among those who have come forward to help the club with gifts of cups and prizemoney are the following gentlemen, whose names are rarely absent from any notice or list calling for an extra supply towards the prize fund: Captain Sutton, Vice-Commodore; Mr. J. R. West, late Rear-Commodore; Mr. A. H. Glennie, Rear-Commodore; and Messrs. Julian Senior, S. Richards, and B. Paget. Mrs. Robertson Fernie makes an annual present of a purse in memory of her late husband, who was always a contributor up to the time of his death.
The club has certainly done more for amateur seamanship than any other inside the Isle of Wight; it was the first to start a system of fortnightly regattas, and has always been chosen by outside clubs to time the arrivals of their ocean races to the port of Portsmouth.
The usual annual regatta was held last year, 1893, somewhat unfortunately, during the squadron week at Cowes, whither the big cutters of the season had attracted so many lovers of yacht racing as well as general sight-seers. A very varied programme was provided, including all classes from the 100-tonner to the ½-rater, in all about five different races. The first was a handicap for yachts exceeding 19-rating, the course being from between the committee-vessel and the Spit Fort, round the N.E. middle buoy, Warner lightship, and Boyne buoy, all marks to be left on the port hand. This afforded a great opportunity for the spectators on Southsea beach to see the racing thoroughly well, as the competitors had to accomplish three rounds, making about a 40-mile course.
The object of handicaps is to get sport amongst craft of varied tonnage, class, and build, by giving time allowance. In the present case the largest vessel was 'Mabel,' late 'Irex,' 100-rating; the smallest,'Marigold,' 22-rating; 'Mabel' allowing 'Marigold' 39 minutes. Six started. A good race ensued, as the following time of the finish will corroborate:—'Columbine,' winner, 4 hrs. 32 mins. 41 secs.; 'Castanet,' 2nd prize, 4 hrs. 36 mins. 15 secs.; 'Creole,' 3rd prize, 4 hrs. 33 mins. 43 secs.; 'Mabel,' 4 hrs. 38 mins. 14 secs.
| Yacht | Rig | Rating | Handicap | Owner |
| Mabel | cutter | 100 | scratch | Mr. Muir |
| Creole | " | 40 | 10 minutes | Lieut.-Col. Bagot |
| Columbine | yawl | 50 | 12 " | Mr. W. B. Paget |
| Castanet | cutter | 40 | 14 " | Mr. W. R. Cookson |
| Hyacinth | yawl | 50 | 27 " | Mr. T. C. Garth |
| Marigold | cutter | 22 | 39 " | Mr. W. R. Martin |
The 20-raters were represented by 'Dragon,' 'Deirdré,' and 'Molly.'
The 2½-raters brought together were in number eight—'Elf,' 'Gareth,' 'Gavotte,' 'Kismet,' 'Meneen,' 'Papoose,' 'Faugh-a-Ballagh,' and 'Undine.'
This race was for the Fernie Cup, value 10 guineas, won by 'Kismet,' Miss Mabel Cox.
Four 1-raters started over a 12-mile course, and the ½-raters finished a very successful regatta by having a match over an 8-mile course; the 'Mosquito,' belonging to Admiral Hallowes, beating the 'Coquette' by half a minute.
ROYAL CINQUE PORTS YACHT CLUB, DOVER
ESTABLISHED 1872
Commodore: H.R.H. Duke of Connaught, K.G.
Vice-Commodore: Earl of Pembroke
The leading feature in the regatta of the Royal Cinque Ports Yacht Club is the race to Boulogne and back, which really is the Channel match of the season; and in the year 1877, which was remarkable for hard winds and even gales on racing days, such as that when the Weymouth, as well as other regattas, was hopelessly stopped, the grandest race of the series was sailed June 14. The following fine fleet started:—
| Yacht | Tonnage | Description | Builder | Owner |
| Australia | 207 | Schooner | Inman | W. W. Hughes, Esq. |
| Phantom | 172 | " | Hoad | A. O. Wilkinson, Esq. |
| Corinne | 160 | " | Ratsey | N. Wood, Esq. |
| Sea Belle | 142 | " | Harvey | H. Taylor, Esq. |
| Miranda | 135 | " | Harvey | G. C. Lampson, Esq. |
| Lufra | 208 | Yawl | Ratsey | J. Houldsworth, Esq. |
| Florinda | 138 | " | Nicholson | W. Jessop, Esq. |
| Jullanar | 127 | " | Bentall | A. D. Macleay, Esq. |
| Vol au Vent | 103 | Cutter | Ratsey | Col. Markham |
With a very hard E.N.E. wind blowing all reefed mainsails and jibheaders, 1877 was a great season for carrying away spars, and June 14 added its share. The arrival time round Boulogne mark-boat is worth recording.
'ARROW,' ROYAL CINQUE PORTS YACHT CLUB.
117 tons (Tankerville Chamberlayne, Esq.). June 24, 1876.
| h. | m. | s. | |
| Phantom | 2 | 17 | 0 |
| Australia | 2 | 21 | 30 |
| Corinne | 2 | 29 | 0 |
| Lufra | 2 | 29 | 30 |
| Miranda | 2 | 32 | 0 |
| Florinda | 2 | 32 | 19 |
| Sea Belle | 2 | 35 | 15 |
| Jullanar | 2 | 36 | 0 |
| Vol au Vent | 3 | 0 | 15 |
The E.N.E. was now a little before their beam; with flattened sheets they all began to dive a little more than on the voyage out. At last, some five miles or so after rounding the Boulogne mark-boat, the leading schooner, 'Phantom,' took a dive that was too much for her bowsprit, which snapped off short. Poor 'Phantom,' in the prime of life, leading grandly and full of promise! After this there were no more accidents. The 'Australia' had the lead, and finished, winning the 100l. prize, and establishing a record, 4 hrs. 12 mins. 40 secs. for the course, which has not been beaten up to the present.
The other racers came in as follows:—
| h. | m. | s. | |
| Australia | 4 | 12 | 40 |
| Corinne | 4 | 26 | 18 |
| Florinda | 4 | 30 | 38 |
| Phantom | 4 | 33 | 3 |
| Miranda | 4 | 34 | 32 |
| Jullanar | 4 | 36 | 30 |
| Sea Belle | 4 | 37 | 48 |
| Lufra | 4 | 38 | 38 |
| Vol au Vent | 5 | 24 | 0 |
Another good race over the same course, on June 28, 1880, was won by 'Latona,' 160 tons, built by J. White; A. B. Rowley, Esq.; duration of race, 4 hrs. 14 mins. 4 secs. Started 10.30 A.M., arrived at Dover 2 hrs. 44 min. 4 secs.
'Reverie,' 40-rater. Built for A. D. Clarke, Esq., 1891, by Messrs. Fay. Designed by J. M. Soper.
'REVERIE.'
40-rater, by Fay & Co. Designed by J. M. Soper, 1891. Hauled up at Fay's Yard.
On July 22, 1889, the 'Wendur,' yawl, 124-rating, 43 tons, built by and belonging to Thos. B. C. West, Esq., ran this time very close, starting 10 A.M., arrived at Dover 2 hrs. 14 mins. 28 secs. Duration of race, 4 hrs. 14 mins. 28 secs., being 24 seconds longer than 'Latona.'
A race on Tuesday, June 14, 1892, was a very remarkable one, and showed what a 40-tonner is capable of in bad weather and hard wind in the Channel, which is not the smoothest water in a strong North-easter. The finish was as follows:—
| Arrived at Dover | |||
| h. | m. | s. | |
| Lethe, yawl | 3 | 17 | 11 |
| Queen Mab, cutter (winner, 70l.) | 3 | 34 | 9 |
| Iverna, cutter | 3 | 38 | 1 |
| Thalia, cutter (2nd prize, 5l.) | 3 | 47 | 28 |
| Creole, cutter | 3 | 57 | 32 |
| Varuna, dismasted | |||
Duration of race, 4 hrs. 32 mins. 11 secs. Wind north-east, strong and squally.
CHAPTER II
SCOTTISH CLUBS
THE ROYAL NORTHERN YACHT CLUB, ROTHESAY
By R. T. Pritchett
1824. Northern Yacht Club Seal.
The Clyde is, and always has been, the great yachting nursery and centre of the North. The very mention of the name arouses all who have pleasurable recollections of the great waters which lead up to the narrow Clutha, whence emerged those monsters of the deep, 'Lucanias,' and other triumphs of modern science. As recently as 1886 the steamer 'Industry,' built by Fife of Fairlie in 1814, was lying in the mud at Haulbowline, after running some sixty years between Greenock and Glasgow. Yacht-building has always been vigorously carried on in the Great Estuary for three generations. The Fifes of Fairlie have designed and built grand vessels there, though the flat shore presents immense difficulties, which are greatly added to by the present increase of draught and lead ballast in yachts of all classes.
The Royal Northern Yacht Club is installed at that delightful spot, Rothesay, noted for its fine bay; and though Clyde weather is known to yachting men as being somewhat impulsive and petulant, whipping out spars, destructive to balloon canvas unless the skipper is very weatherwise indeed, still for real sailing the Clyde affords some of the best courses in the world and the grandest sport from 23-footers to 200-tonners.
ROYAL NORTHERN YACHT CLUB, ROTHESAY.
The Royal Northern Club had a very interesting origin. It dates from 1824, when it was founded by some gentlemen in the north of Ireland and west of Scotland who were devotees of yachting. A few years later the club was separated into two branches, an Irish and Scotch division, as will be perceived by the flags given here in illustration. One has the shamrock wreath, the other the thistles, each division having its own committee and officials.
Original Members, A.D. 1824
| No. | |
| 1. | Thomas Pottinger (Admiral 1825) |
| 2. | John Turnley |
| 3. | J. E. Matthews |
| 4. | R. Kennedy |
| 5. | Robert Thomson (first secretary) 1824, and admiral, 1827 |
| 6. | Gordon Thomson |
| 7. | G. Matthews |
| 8. | Henry J. McCracken |
| 9. | Edward S. Ruthven |
| 10. | Thos. Ch. Stewart Corry |
| 11. | George Russell |
| 12, 13, 14. | McCrackens, junrs. |
| 15. | J. Smyth, Helensburgh (for many years Commodore of R.N.Y.C.) |
| 16. | J. Carrick, Greenock |
| 17. | Robert Langtry |
| 18. | Robert Christian, Sligo |
| 19. | Claudius Armstrong, Dublin |
| 20. | Robert F. Gordon |
| 21. | Edward Forbes Orson, Balyreggan House, Stranraer |
| 22. | John Kennedy, Cuttra |
Royal Northern flags.
The records of the Scotch division prior to 1846 were unfortunately destroyed by an accident some years ago. The minute-book of the Irish division has, however, survived. From it we find that at a meeting of gentlemen interested in the foundation of the Northern Yacht Club, held at Belfast on November 5, 1824, it was resolved 'that the establishment of a yacht club is a highly desirable object.' A committee was accordingly appointed to that end, Mr. Robert Thomson being requested to act as secretary, and at a general meeting held April 8, 1825, Mr. John Allan of Glasgow accepted the post of secretary for the Clyde. At a general meeting at Belfast May 2, 1825, the secretary was instructed to write to Mr. Allan, to consult with the Scotch members and fix with them the place of rendezvous for the first general meeting of the boats of the club. The date arranged was the first Monday in June, and the Irish members declared that they were ready to meet the Scotch members 'in any part of the Clyde' on that day.
The club was known as the Northern Yacht Club. There is no record in the minute-book of the burgee adopted, but in an old picture, now in the club-house at Rothesay, the yachts are shown cruising off Garroch Head, in the Clyde, with red ensigns, the burgee also red, with the letters N.Y.C. in white. The present secretary has courteously sent a photograph of this picture, also of the flags, as an historical contribution. The first prizes offered were for pulling (rowing) matches to take place in Ireland.
The Marquis of Donegall was the first President of the club, and Mr. Thos. Pottinger, Admiral for 1825.
The full dress of the club consisted of a blue coat with crimson silk lining, with 'Marall's' vest, white or black pantaloons or breeches, and silk stockings to correspond. Members who appeared at the dinners of the club without this dress were fined 10s. At a general meeting held at Greenock, on August 3, 1825, Mr. James Hamilton, of Holmhead, was appointed Admiral for the ensuing year.
In May 1826, at Belfast, the yachts were divided into three classes:—
| 1st class | over | 30 | tons register |
| 2nd " | " | 15 | " " |
| 3rd " | under | 15 | " " |
The first regatta took place at Belfast, June 20, 21, 22, and on June 23 pulling races were rowed by members and their friends. On June 24 the yachts were to sail together 'in a fleet,' and 'manœuvre under the directions of the Admiral.' This is quite an echo of the Cork Water 1720 Club.
A proposal of the Scottish members to separate the Club into two distinct branches was agreed to on May 16, 1827. It was probably after this date that each division had a distinguishing burgee; from an old print of these flags now in the club-house at Rothesay, the Irish division seems to have flown a red burgee with a harp, the Scottish division being distinguished by a lion in white.
H.M. King William IV. became Patron of the club in September 1830, and from that time it was known as the Royal Northern Yacht Club.
In 1831 the yachts of the Club were arranged in classes as under:—
| 1st class | over | 75 | tons register | ||
| 2nd " | " | 50 | tons and under | 75 | tons |
| 3rd " | " | 30 | " " " | 50 | " |
| 4th " | " | 20 | " " " | 30 | " |
| 5th " | " | 15 | " " " | 20 | " |
| 6th " | under | 15 | tons | ||
A two days' regatta was held at Belfast in 1836. The different classes just described were started at an interval of half an hour between each, beginning at 10.30 A.M., the prize for each class being ten sovereigns. On the second day a very important event took place, the race for the Belfast Cup, value 100l., a time race for all sizes. Eight vessels to start, or no race. Entry 3l.; the second yacht to save her stake. It is to be regretted that the details of this race cannot be given. On May 21, 1838, at a meeting held of the few remaining members of the Irish division, it was resolved to dissolve that half of the Club and hand over any funds (they amounted to 14l. 17s. 2d.) to the secretary of the Scottish division.
NORTHERN YACHT CLUB CRUISING OFF GARROCH HEAD, 1825.
(From a Painting by Hutcheson at R.N.Y. Club, Rothesay.)
It is unfortunate that the records of the Scottish division and of the Royal Northern Club, after the dissolution and prior to 1846, have been lost. It had prospered much. The Clyde was developing rapidly and with great energy, as is shown by their four days' Regatta in 1835, the first day at Helensburgh, the second at Greenock, the third at Dunoon, the fourth at Largs, which is without doubt one of the most enthusiastic of yachting stations.
It would be well to record here the cracks of the Clyde in 1835. The 'Gleam' (see [illustration] on next page), Falcon, 'Nymph' and 'Clarence,' were very leading craft.
| Tartar | 30 | tons | A. Morris |
| Sylph | 30 | " | J. Crooks |
| Dream | 66 | " | A. Ranken |
| Gleam (Fife)[3] | 30 | " | H. Gore Booth |
| Clarence | 15 | " | R. Sinclair |
| Amethyst | 20 | " | J. Smith |
| Wave | 15 | " | T. C. Buchanan |
| Emma | 15 | " | Jas. Bogle |
| Falcon | 15 | " | Jas. Kerr |
| Nymph | 15 | " | H. F. Campbell |
Clyde yachting was now firmly established; Largs, Gourock, Greenock, Dunoon, Helensburgh, Rothesay, were the stations most frequented, and each successive season brings them forward more prominently, with well-sustained reputation.
The present club-house at Rothesay was built in 1878, and the Royal Northern Yacht Club regattas are naturally always now held at that place, started from the Commodore's yacht which is moored off Craigmore for that purpose. A chart of the course is given, showing the whole set of different distances.
The prominent feature of this club is that it has from a very early period of its history had a club yacht, which is open to hire by members for periods not exceeding a fortnight, and fine vessels they have from time to time chosen. The first was the well-known 'Orion,' then came 'Mosquito,' a grand iron boat built in 1848, designed by Waterman, and now a pilot boat doing good work. 'Æolus' came next. In 1885 the club had their present vessel, the 'Ailsa,' 66 tons, built by Fife of Fairlie; and who better could have been chosen?
It has already been mentioned that Mr. John Allan, of Glasgow, was the first secretary for the Clyde, 1825. Mr. E. F. Donald is the present secretary.
'Gleam,' designed and built by Fife of Fairlie, 1834.
Midship Section.
There is no doubt that, if variety be really charming, very charming weather can be found in the Clyde waters, even within the six-hour limit: dead calm, Zephyr, good sailing breeze, rain squalls, white squalls, and the rest.
ROYAL NORTHERN YACHT CLUB, ROTHESAY.
ROYAL CLYDE YACHT CLUB
By G. L. Blake
The history of the Royal Clyde Yacht Club affords one more proof of the old belief that slow and steady progress is the most enduring.
It is now nearly forty years since the following very modest announcement, under the heading 'Clyde Model Yacht Club,' appeared in the 'Glasgow Herald,' of August 28, 1856:—
A number of gentlemen connected with yachting propose to form a club under the above designation, with the view of furthering a greater amount of emulation amongst the proprietors of small yachts. It is proposed to take in yachts under 8 tons only, being the smallest acknowledged by the Royal Northern Yacht Club, and to have an annual regatta, to be held in rotation at the various watering-places along the coast.
In answer to this call a meeting was held shortly after at the Globe Hotel, Glasgow, on which occasion about thirty-one gentlemen entered their names on the club's list as members. Messrs. Jas. Gilchrist, Archibald Kennedy, Richard Ferguson, Jas. Mum, J. Gibson, Jas. Spencer, Jas. Sutherland, and W. Kennedy were chosen to form the first committee and draw up a code of rules, Mr. W. Kennedy acting as secretary and treasurer.
At a general meeting held the following month, September, the late Mr. Jas. Smith, of Jordan Hill, was elected first Commodore, and Mr. Tom Holdsworth Vice-Commodore, and before the end of the year the little club boasted some fifty members.
ROYAL CLYDE YACHT CLUB
HUNTER'S QUAY. EST. 1856.
On January 27, 1857, the Admiralty warrant was granted, allowing the club to fly the blue ensign with their burgee: blue with a red lion on a yellow shield in centre. Measuring officers were told off, who had to deal with the old Thames Rule of measurement, excepting in the method of taking the length, the club rule being that 'the length must be taken from outside of the stem to the outside of the sternpost at half the depth of each from the load water-line.' A curious provision was made, too, with regard to racing flags. The club had a series of flags numbered from 1 to 10, and each yacht was provided with a number according to priority of entry for a race, but this kindly thoughtfulness on the part of the ruling powers did not continue beyond a couple of seasons, and members had to provide racing flags for themselves, as they have done ever since.
Though an opening and other cruises had been held, together with a small meeting at Largs, the first great event of the Clyde Model Yacht Club took place on August 29, 1857, off Helensburgh, when four items made up the programme, and Captain Small, Messrs. James Rowan, James Gilchrist, Robert Hart, Dan Buchanon and Thomas Falconer did duty as the sailing committee. The Commodore's yacht 'Wave' was moored off the baths for the occasion, and the course chosen was from the Commodore round the Shoal buoy—thence round a flag boat moored off Ardmore Point and back round the Commodore's yacht, leaving all on the port hand; twice round for the first and second races, and once round for the third and fourth.
The first race was for yachts of 8 tons and under, and for this the 'Fairy Queen,' 8 tons, Mr. Grant, junior; 'Armada,' 7½ tons, Mr. Dickie; 'Bella,' 8 tons, Mr. Walker; and 'Maud,' 8 tons, Mr. St. Clair Byrne, sailed, and finished in the order given.
In the second face for yachts of 6 tons and under, the 'Pearl,' 4½ tons, Mr. Ferguson; 'Maria,' 5 tons, Mr. R. Lyall; 'Leda,' 6 tons, Mr. Alexander Finlay; 'Comet,' 5 tons, Mr. Steven; and 'Clutha,' 5 tons, Mr. Spencer, entered, the three first coming in as named.
The third race, for yachts of 4 tons and under, brought four competitors together—the 'Francis,' 3½ tons, Mr. Miller; 'Lily,' 3½ tons, Mr. Ure; 'Echo,' 2½ tons, Mr. Sutherland; and the 'Banshee,' 4 tons, Mr. Taylor. The 'Francis' won, followed home in the order as above. The fourth item was for boats of 19 ft. over all, a class which, though developed almost out of recognition, has always remained a firm favourite.
It may here be noted that an attempt made at the close of the season to introduce the American 'sail area' rule of measurement signally failed.
Between the years 1857 and 1862 little of importance took place.
During 1863 the first symptoms of a break out from bounds was exhibited, and prizes were given for a race for yachts of 25 tons and under, besides one for yachts of 10 tons and under. A stipulation was made with regard to the latter race—viz. that each yacht was to be manned by one hand only, a dangerous though sporting condition which had previously brought disaster and proved fatal in Irish waters, and has never been permitted since. Both races filled, Mr. Fulton's 'Glide,' 14 tons, won the first, and Mr. McIver's 'Brenda,' 8 tons, the second.
With this divergence from the original scheme on which the club was founded the society threw off its old name and came out under the more independent title of the Clyde Yacht Club. To celebrate this era the annual regatta was lengthened out to a two days' programme, and the 'Lesbia,' 37, cutter; 'Reverie,' 41, schooner; 'Kilmeny,' 30, cutter, and 'Dawn,' yawl, met to do battle with the 15-ton 'Torch,' the crack of the year. Besides the annual regatta, at which yachts from all parts of the kingdom were invited to compete, the Corinthian regatta of the club must not be lost sight of or hidden away behind the lustre of the great event of the season. It had formed part of each season's programme of events for some years, and had been the means of cultivating a true taste for amateur seamanship. Many a member can look back to his first Corinthian race as the beginning of his practical experience in yacht racing. The races at these regattas have been mostly handicaps, and two or three are always open to yachts in cruising trim. The only conditions of the regatta are that 'Yachts may carry their ordinary paid hands, but no extra paid hands, and must be steered by members of a yacht club.'
It is always pleasant to meet with names which are as well known as the club to which they belong, to whom their club owes much, and whose pride and interests are centred in its prosperity. It was in 1863 that two such members' names were added to the official list—the late Mr. J. A. Lockett as Rear-Commodore and Mr. William York as treasurer. Both these gentlemen have for the last thirty years been busily engaged in furthering the welfare of the club, the one in his capacity as secretary or treasurer, or both, the other in several offices, but principally as one of the house committee.
When the year 1867 closed the Clyde Yacht Club's first racing decade, the club was well under way and able to hold its own with any existing yacht-racing community, both as a provider of sport and for the attractions offered to the lovers of yachts and yachting, when with their friends they were brought together on the waters of the 'Bonny Clyde.' This was noticeable in 1863, but it became much more so in 1865, when the well-known clippers 'Mosquito,' 59 tons; 'Glance,' 35 tons; 'Fiona,' 78 tons; and the 'Vindex,' 44 tons, came round to the Firth to sail under the Clyde Club's auspices.
Though opening and closing cruises had always been in vogue since the foundation of the club, it was left for the tenth year to start the long series of these expeditions, which last from a Thursday to the Monday morning following, and, with the combined attractions of racing, cruising and social gatherings, have proved such pleasant features in each season's yachting. The list of members had now reached over 100, while the yacht tonnage had risen to 1,200 gross, comprising 87 yachts of 5 to 103 tons. Among these were included the three most successful yachts of the year in the United Kingdom, and, to the praise of the Clyde shores it may be said, all built and designed by Mr. W. Fife of Fairlie—the 'Fiona' in the 1st, the 'Kilmeny' in the 2nd, and the 'Torch' in the 3rd class.
The season of 1868 would have passed without note or comment had it not been that the club founded an annual Corinthian match, in which two paid hands were to be allowed for yachts of 15 tons and over, and one paid hand to all the smaller yachts. The helmsman was to be an amateur, and no shot-bag or shifting ballast of any kind was to be permitted. Besides proving that the club possessed amateur seamen capable of handling a racing yacht of any size, the fact that that unseaworthy equipment shifting ballast, which had been in use in the Clyde foot classes and in most racing yachts during the early Fifties, was to be abolished, at all events in this race, was a move in the right direction.
1869 is a year of real historical importance, for it not only gives the date when the 40-, 20-, and 10-ton classes became generally acknowledged, but it brings credit to the Clyde Yacht Club where credit is due, as being the founder of these classes, which held sway for so many years. A year later the club was the first to introduce the smaller class of 5 tons as a standing dish in its regatta programmes, and to the Clyde Yacht Club belongs the honour of being the first in the field to recognise that this diminutive class of flyers was well worthy on its own merits of being encouraged.
THE START FOR ARDRISHAIG CUP.
Channel matches had been long ere this time a matter of annual interest with some of the clubs in the south of England, as well as the Royal Alfred Yacht Club at Kingstown, and Royal Northern in Scotland; but the sport of Channel racing and open-sea work had either not been thought of, or had met with no favour, for the first Channel match held in connection with the Clyde Club did not take place till 1871. The race came off after the regatta held that year at Barrow and before the Clyde regattas, the course being from Barrow to the Clyde, so that the yachts about to visit and race in the Firth might find it worth their while to put on a spurt and make the best of their way to their destination. No better course could be chosen for trying a vessel on all points of sailing, to say nothing of her sea-going powers, including as it does the passage between the Isle of Man and the Mull of Galloway. For this race the 'Enid,' 57 tons; 'Livonia,' 280; 'Glance,' 35; and 'Coralie,' 35, started, all yachts at that date as racers. The 'Glance' saved her time and carried off the trophy.
If 1871 opened up Channel groping under racing trim, 'progress' must truly be held the motto for 1872. Not only was the club made a Royal club, and allowed the privilege of placing a crown over the lion's head in the burgee crest, but early in the spring of this year the Royal Clyde opened to its members the house which Mr. Hunter, of Hafton, had built for them at Hunter's Quay adjoining the hotel.
Of course with a settled headquarters, Hunter's Quay became the future rendezvous for all club fixtures, such as opening and closing cruises, regattas, matches and the like; and as the opening cruise this year may be considered the first general meeting of members afloat off the new house, it will not be amiss to give a short description of it. The meeting took place on Thursday, May 30, and began at 2 P.M. with a lunch at the club-house, after which at 4 P.M. the yachts weighed anchor under the Commodore, and sailed under his orders till the signal was made from the flagship for them to make the best of their way to Rothesay. On arrival there, those who were not required on board their vessels to stow sails and clear up for the night took their dinghies ashore, or were taken in their gigs, for a stroll through the old town. In the meantime on board the yachts, as soon as the decks had been cleared up and ropes coiled down in their places, the galley fires were lighted, so that by 7 P.M. the men had had their tea, and the cooks and stewards were ready with goodly repasts awaiting the coming on board again of the hungry masters and their friends.
Dinner over, the pleasures of the evening began with what is known as 'ship-visiting'—that is, the yacht-owner starts off, and either rows himself and friends in his dinghy, or is rowed in correct form, to some friend's yacht where he may remain, or, after a short visit, proceed, taking with him his host and as many of his friends as he can pack away in the gig's stern-sheets, to some other yacht, and so on ad infinitum. To row himself is much the better plan, since it means independence of the crew (which perhaps may consist only of one hand), and avoidance of a troubled conscience, that the man or men are being kept up and prevented from turning in.
The following morning only a few burgees were visible, most of the yachts having donned their silken racing flags, for an early start had to be made in a handicap race to be sailed viâ the Garroch Head (the most south-westerly extremity of the Isle of Bute) to Tignabruich. More than half the yachts were started in this race, for which four cups were provided as prizes. The contingent of small non-racers made Tignabruich by way of the Kyles of Bute, as did also some of the larger sailing yachts, which preferred calm and untroubled travelling to a dusting round the Garroch Head. The gathering at the head of the Kyles is, if anything, more enjoyable than that spent at Rothesay. The anchorage is more land-locked, and therefore less liable to disturbance from winds or sweeping seas, and ship-visiting can be carried on without any fear of a ducking or other unpleasantness.
On the Saturday morning, the members of the club and their friends breakfasted together at 9.30 at the Royal Hotel, when the prizes were presented to the winners; after which a few returned to their yachts, got under way, and dispersed with the object of extending their cruise, while those left behind remained to enjoy the beautiful scenery and walks with which the locality abounds, and on Sunday attend church parade on board Lord Glasgow's yacht.
'MARJORIE.'
Blue, with white cross. 68 tons (J. Coats, Jun., Esq.). Built by Steele & Co., 1883.
Beyond the adoption by the club of the Royal Alfred Yacht Club rules and regulations, nothing of any moment worth chronicling took place till 1875, in which year the purchase was completed by the club of the whole of the grounds and buildings, including the hotel and club-house, and early in 1876 the members enjoyed the privilege of not only having a club-house, but also an establishment worked on the principle of a private hotel, where they could provide themselves and their families or friends with comfortable quarters on very reasonable club terms.
In this matter the Royal Clyde Yacht Club is specially fortunate, as also in one other, viz. the magnificent scenic setting by which their possession is surrounded. Nothing can equal the Holy Loch for beauty and charm of colour, on a summer's evening, particularly about sunset, or an early winter's morning, with its sunrise lowering and accompanied by ever-changing tints lending their enchantments to the rugged grandeur of the hills which bound it. This, with the distant view up the Clyde, obtained from the club-house windows or frontage, is not to be surpassed in any country in the world.
At the opening of the season of 1877, and the close of the second decade, the club numbered no fewer than 643 members, with a fleet of yachts computed at 195, and as the Club Regatta now occupied two days, the three Clyde clubs—viz. the Royal Clyde, the Royal Northern, and the four-year-old Mudhook Yacht Club—considered it necessary to work together for the furtherance of sport, and held their first meeting to arrange a suitable date for celebrating a 'Clyde Week.' A change was also made this season in the several courses at the regattas, a change which had been for some time considered desirable, and which turned out a welcome improvement.
The new courses were as follows: For First-Class Yachts, from Hunter's Quay to Toward buoy, thence to Skelmorlie buoy, thence to the Powder Vessel's buoy, and thence to Hunter's Quay, leaving all on the port hand; twice round, distance 50 miles.
The Second-Class Course lay from Hunter's Quay to Skelmorlie buoy, thence to the Powder Vessel's buoy, and thence to Hunter's Quay, leaving all on the port hand; twice round, distance 40 miles.
The Third-Class Course was from Hunter's Quay to a flagboat moored in Inverkip Bay, thence to the Powder Vessel's buoy and back to Hunter's Quay; twice round, distance 30 miles.
The Fourth-Class Course was from Hunter's Quay to the Inverkip flagboat, and back to Hunter's Quay; twice round, distance 24 miles.
The Fifth-Class Course lay from Hunter's Quay to a flagboat moored off Dunoon Pier, thence to a flagboat moored off Kilcreggan and back to Hunter's Quay; twice round, distance 11 miles.
Another new feature this season was the introduction of the Yacht Racing Association's scale of time allowances, based originally on that drawn up for the Royal Alfred Yacht Club by their late secretary, Mr. James A. Lyle. This scale had been in general use by the R.A.Y.C. for many years.
In 1878, not only the club, but all those who had partaken of its hospitality, had to lament their loss in the death of Mr. Samuel King, one of the most kind and genial of its members. This year was remarkable for the entry in the race for first-class yachts on the second day of the regatta. Five yachts crossed the line for the 60l. prize, not one of which was less than 100 tons measurement, viz., the 'Lufra,' 222 tons, yawl; 'Jullanar,' yawl, 130 tons; 'Condor,' 190 tons; 'Cythera,' cutter, 116 tons; and 'Formosa,' cutter, 103 tons. From that day to this there has never been such a meeting of so many first-class large racing yachts, showing so great a tonnage. It may be said also of the useful little 5-ton class, at this time at its zenith of popularity, that the entries this season were the largest that have ever been known. No fewer than eight of these mosquitoes, including Mr. York's pretty little 6-ton yawl 'Rocket,' came to the fore on all the great occasions provided for their sport.
'MAY'
42 tons (W. Chrystal, Esq., Vice-Com. Royal Clyde). Built by Steele & Co., 1881.
During the years 1879, 1880, and 1881, there was a satisfactory increase in the number of members, and a consequent augmentation of the club funds. The annual amount given away at this period in prizes had reached something over 450l. The entries at the regattas during the seasons of 1880 and 1881 were splendid in the 20-ton class; no fewer than seven 20-tonners and the 15-tonner 'Maggie' crossed the line in 1880, and in 1881 the same number, less the 'Maggie,' did likewise. A new class of 2½-tonners was started in 1880 with seven yachts to its name, and in 1881 still another class had to be catered for, consisting of 3½-tonners. The entries, too, this year, in the first class must not be forgotten; for in these days of fashionable small yacht racing it almost reads like a fairy tale when it is said that, out of nine entries, seven yachts were of 89 tons and over, the other two being about 60 tons each.
If the above two years are notable in the annals of the club, in the following year, 1882, its prosperity was evinced in a marked degree by the addition to its possessions of a club yacht; and as there are only one or two clubs which provide such a luxury for their members, it may not be amiss to give a short account of the modus operandi employed in connection with it. Among the 600 to 700 members of the club there were many who did not care to keep yachts of their own, but enjoyed an occasional cruise. It was in answer to a proposition made by one of these gentlemen that funds were procured by means of shares, which were bought by individual members, and by the club itself. In this way the necessary amount of purchase money was speedily collected, and a committee was told off to superintend the choice, purchase, and fitting out of a yacht, with all arrangements connected with manning, and the carrying out of the regulations in regard to hire, &c. The yacht thus secured by the club was the 'Alcyone,' 35-ton cutter, which had been built by Mr. D. Hatcher, and had proved herself no mean performer in the 40-ton class. She is a good wholesome vessel, and a fast and able sea-boat. Her accommodation is excellent, and includes berths for five passengers at least. There is capital headroom between decks, and any amount of space for stowage of baggage, &c.
The 'Alcyone' is manned by a captain and four hands, and when a member hires the yacht he has no expenses whatever to provide for beyond the hire and the keep of himself and friends while on board. Four rules were framed by the committee in charge, as being necessary for the working of the scheme, viz:
First.—The limit of time for hire is 14 days. Second.—The cost of hire is 3l. 10s. per diem, including cruet stores. Third.—The club is to keep a supply of liquors on board, to be supplied at a small profit. Fourth.—Hirers are bound, if called upon, to deliver up the yacht in the Holy Loch, or at any other anchorage inside the Cumbrae Head.
If it is desired to keep the yacht for a month, then it must be done by two members joining together in the hire, the one putting his name down for the first fortnight, and the other for the second. The cost of hire may seem at first sight somewhat heavy, but the 'Alcyone' is kept up like a private yacht, and no money has been spared to provide every possible contrivance which might be conducive to comfort. The success of the venture is proved by the fact that she has rarely been disengaged or unlet for more than a day or two during any one season since her purchase.
Another sign of prosperity was the institution of an annual club ball, which is held at the St. Andrews Hall, Glasgow, during the winter months, and acknowledged to be one of the principal balls of the year and one of the great events of the winter season.
The next year—1883—showed a still further advancement in the club's popularity, for it was the chosen recipient of a Queen's Cup. This prize was sailed for on July 14, during the 'Clyde Week,' in a race for all yachts over 40 tons, and no fewer than eleven yachts started.
'THISTLE'
Winning the Queen's Cup in the Clyde.
If, however, 1883 has been rendered famous for being a Queen's Cup year, 1884 will be noted for the success of its closing cruise, and the sport it provided. This season surpassed itself in the number of entries for the closing cruise handicap, and never have so many yachts come forward to race for the handsome cups, the gifts of members of the club, as on this occasion. In the first match for yachts over 40 tons, ten entered, including five over 90 tons, three 60-tonners, and two of 40 tons. It was the race for 20-tonners, however, that gave real character to the meeting, and there can be no mistake in saying that no other club in the kingdom has ever had to start so many as nine 20- and two 15-tonners in one race, all clever fast yachts, and no third or fourth rate cruisers, as will be seen from their names: 'Clara,' 'Lenore,' 'Amathea,' 'Louise,' 'Sayonara,' 'Irene,' 'Thyra,' 'Maggie,' 'Calypso,' 'Rival,' and 'Gem.' In the race for 10-tonners seven started, among them the old 'Helen' schooner, 17 tons, a yacht which saw more hard sailing than perhaps any other belonging to the club. She was built at Cowes, and was one of Halliday's pretty creations, a few of which are still to be met with. In 1892 she was unfortunately driven on the rocks off Hafton in the Holy Loch, during a severe gale, and was soon smashed into matchwood. For the prize in the 5-ton class three put in an appearance, all the fastest racing yachts of the year.
'Clara,' 10 tons, midship section.
The courses for yachts of 40 tons and upwards were altered in 1885; instead of rounding the Powder buoy a mark buoy anchored off Kilcreggan became the furthest point. In 1886 the club forwarded a challenge to the New York Yacht Club, in the name of Mr. Jas. Bell, and this ended in the yacht 'Thistle,' now known as the 'Meteor' and owned by H.I.M. the German Emperor, being built, and sent across the Atlantic, to contend for the Cup won by the 'America.' The 'Thistle' and 'Volunteer' matches were the consequence, and they are so well known that it would be superfluous here to furnish an account of them; suffice it to say that, though the Scotch yacht did not win the great event, her performances with the 'Volunteer' not only taught British yachtsmen many a lesson, but afforded not a few hints to their American rivals.
At the beginning of 1887, the end of the club's third decade, the finances of the club consisted of a capital of 6,990l., and the amount at this time annually expended on yacht racing was 487l., exclusive of gifts of money made by individual members. During the ten years the numbers on the list of members fluctuated from 610 to 640: in this particular year only 610 names appeared on the list. With regard to the number of yachts sailing under the club flag, there had been the same variation, for though always between 180 and 197, this year the yachts numbered only 189, or 11 fewer than the previous year, the gross tonnage amounting to 12,302 tons.
During the winter of 1886 many matters were discussed which brought forth fruit in the season of 1887, and made that year more important than it otherwise would have been. First of all, the club had to regret the loss of their Commodore, Lord Glasgow, who, after acting for over a quarter of a century in that office, was compelled to give up the appointment owing to failing health. Mr. John Clark was elected to take his place, and Messrs. Jas. Bell and H. Lamont became Vice- and Rear-Commodores. Mr. York, to whom the writer is much indebted for assistance given him in compiling this notice, held the office of secretary and treasurer, which he had so ably filled for over twenty years. During the winter the club had acquired three boats, of 19 ft. length on the load water-line, for the benefit of those members who wished to go out for a day's sail; the three boats being made, as far as the designer, builder, and sailmaker were concerned, as nearly equal in merits as it was possible for them to be, in order that they might show good sport when taken out racing together. Prizes for a race for these boats have since been regularly given at the regattas, to encourage members to take them out match sailing. In this way they have proved very useful in initiating many a tiro into the secrets and mysteries of yacht racing.
'LENORE'
Fife of Fairlie, 1882.
This year, too, witnessed another change in yacht measurement. The Yacht Racing Association had formulated and passed a rule of measurement by length and sail area, the length to be taken along the load water-line. This rule was adopted by the club, and at the regattas all yachts were rated according to it, with the exception of the 3½-tonners; these, as they happened to be the class of the year, were allowed to race under the old rule for which they were built. As many as six of these little vessels made the Clyde their headquarters and sailed at the regattas.
Through the club's agency, it must not be forgotten, telegraphic communication was opened up between Hunter's Quay, Glasgow, and the outer world. The club provided an office and guaranteed the sum required by the Post Office authorities, and by so doing conferred a benefit not only on themselves but on the whole surrounding neighbourhood.
Early in 1888 the club was engaged in determining the several classes under which yachts built to the 'rating rule,' as it was called, should sail. For this purpose, Messrs. R. Wylie and J. B. Hilliard, the two well-known representative Clyde yachtsmen, were chosen delegates to consult with the other leading yacht clubs in the North regarding the adjustment of a classification for the smaller yachts and sailing boats racing on the Clyde, and full powers were given them to carry out any decision that might be arrived at. Those adopted were the 10, 6 and 3 rating classes with two length classes, one of 17 ft. on the water-line and 19 ft. over all, with a sail area limited to 530 ft.; the mainsail or lugsail not to exceed .75 of the total sail area; the other class to be for boats 15 ft. on the water-line. The 6-rating class was chosen that it might form one in which the 3-tonners of the preceding year would be able to enter, as they ranged over 5 and under 6 as raters. At the time these changes were taking place a rule was introduced that there were to be no 'restrictions on the use of centreboards.'
The great feature of this year's regatta was the 'Queen's Cup,' the second presented to the club within five years, an event of which the members may justly be proud. In the interim between the Corinthian and annual regattas a channel match round Arran was inaugurated, for yachts not exceeding 9 tons Thames measurement and belonging to any recognised yacht club, for 50l., given in two prizes of 35l. and 15l., and presented by two members of the club. The course lay from Hunter's Quay down the Firth, through the Kyles of Bute, down Kilbrennan Sound between Arran and Cantyre, rounding Pladda Island, and home by any route. The yachts were to be bona fide cruisers, and only jib-topsails were prohibited. No restrictions were made as to crew or helmsman. No fewer than eight small yachts sailed in the race, and it proved a far greater success than was at first expected.
If this is to be known as the second Queen's Cup year, it will also have to be remembered for the terrible fire and loss of the club-house and hotel on July 12, nothing of which was saved, with the exception of some furniture, one or two models, and a few odds and ends. A club could be called upon to face no greater calamity, especially at a time when the season is at its height. Craigend Villa, within a short distance of the old house, was promptly rented as a makeshift for a year, and fitted up to meet all immediate necessities, while steps were taken at once to make arrangements for the building of a new house on the old site. To forward this the sum of 10,000l. was voted, which with another 8,000l. did not cover all the expenses. At the present moment there does not exist a more beautiful or conveniently arranged yacht club-house in the kingdom.
'VERVE'
23-footer (Robert Wylie, Esq.)
Notwithstanding the liberal sums devoted by the club to match sailing, there have always been at each regatta meeting a plentiful supply of cups and purses forthcoming to swell the list of prizes, the gifts of individual members. To enumerate all the donors would be out of place here, but it is impossible to overlook such names as Bell, Buchanon, Clark, Coates, Falconer, Ferguson, Forrester, Lockett, Ure, Wylie, and York, names which will ever be linked with the club's successful past.
The year 1890 was remarkable principally for the number of 10-raters belonging to members, and entered for races in that class. It seemed like a resuscitation of the old 10-tonner days. On the other hand, the Clyde, the home of the 5-tonner, had not a single 5-rater to its name, and a 6-rating class had to be formed to take in the Irish contingent, which with Mr. Inglis's little 'Darthula' raced for the prizes provided for them. The 2½-rater class made its entry in the club programmes, and started with a small fleet of seven yachts, including four belonging to the Royal Ulster Yacht Club; but in 1891 this class became the fashionable class of the year, and the club of itself could boast of no fewer than eight of these small fry.
The fleet belonging to the club in the year 1857 numbered 56 yachts, mostly of very small tonnage. By 1867 the number had risen to 87 only, but then the gross tonnage was very much greater, viz. 1,200 tons. In 1877 there were 194 yachts, including a few screw steamers. In the year 1887, 189 names appeared on the club yacht list, i.e. five fewer than in 1877, but the total tonnage on the other hand amounted to 12,302 tons. The last half-decade, however, has quite eclipsed all preceding years, for the yachts now flying the Royal Clyde Yacht Club burgee number 267, which represent a gross tonnage of no less than 14,407 tons. Last year not far short of 1,000l. was given in prizes.
The club at the present time numbers 951 members, which will be seen to be an increase of over 300 within the last five years. It is a pleasure seldom accorded to writers of club histories to have to record such an exceptional advance, and in bidding farewell to the society, it may be firmly hoped and prophesied that long ere the close of its fourth decade the R.C.Y.C. will have increased its list of members to over four figures and its yachts and yacht-tonnage in proportion.
THE ROYAL FORTH YACHT CLUB
By R. T. Pritchett
The Forth Club was established in 1848 under the name of the 'Granton Yacht Club,' and received permission from the Queen to assume the title of 'Royal Forth' in 1883. The flag of the club is the blue ensign of Her Majesty's fleet, with a gold crown and Maltese cross. The club is now well supported, having as patron the Duke of Buccleuch, K.T. Sir Donald Currie, K.C.M.G., is Commodore, backed by a very influential staff. The Hon. Secretary is Mr. Bruce Fenwick. The number of members amounts to nearly 2,000, with a total tonnage of about 4,600; but the Firth of Forth has serious disadvantages as a yachting centre, being favoured neither by nature nor circumstances as is the Firth of Clyde, which absorbs all yachting interests. Mr. T. B. C. West, who carried off the Queen's Cup at the Regatta in 1892 with his well-known 40-rater 'Queen Mab,' presented a challenge cup of 100 guineas, to be sailed for annually in the month of June. That, however, was not sufficient inducement to get a large entry. The fact is there are so many regattas now that the tendency is to concentration, and consequently outlying stations suffer.
The Royal Forth Yacht Club had a match in June 1893, at the beginning of their water sports, from Hartlepool to Granton, for a prize of 30l. The starters were
| The Creole | Cutter | 40-rater | Lieut.-Col. Bagot. |
| Daydream | Yawl | 89- " | Mr. James Shepherd. |
ROYAL FORTH YACHT CLUB COURSES.
The wind was very light at the start, which took place at 10.50 A.M. on Thursday, June 22. Later on light airs from east-north-east helped them; but off the Farne Islands—without any notice or disturbed appearance in the sky—a tremendous squall struck 'Creole'; she, however, behaved splendidly, and was specially well handled. By Saturday morning the weather had moderated and they got the mainsail on her and ran up past Inch Keith, getting the gun at 11.34 A.M. from the 'Iolanthe.'
The larger vessel, the yawl of 89-rating, had her troubles too, and finally got into the Tyne on Saturday morning, under storm canvas.
On the last day of the racing—June 26—there was a match for yachts belonging to the Royal Forth Yacht Club, for the T. B. C. West Challenge Cup, the entries confined to members of the club. Five yachts entered for the race, over a course of forty miles. The tonnage was very small, and the handicap one of large range; it will be noted that 'Ida,' at scratch, allowed 'Lintie' 1 hr. 23 mins. 48 secs.
| Yacht | Rig | Rating | Handicap | Owners |
| Ida | Cutter | 12 | Scratch | Messrs. Park & Wilson |
| Nora | " | 8 | 12 m. 24 s. | Dr. W. S. Armitage |
| Uranus | " | 3.9 | 36 m. 47 s. | Mr. F. A. Robertson |
| Glance | " | 3.7 | 40 m. 42 s. | Mr. W. A. Bell |
| Lintie | Lug | — | 1 hr. 23 m. 48 s. | Mr. G. W. Mitchell |
The start took place at 10.37 A.M., with a nice breeze from the north-west. 'Lintie' led off, but 'Nora' soon took up the running and led all the way home, finishing at Granton:—
| h. | m. | s. | |
| Nora (winner) | 6 | 21 | 32 |
| Ida | 6 | 29 | 30 |
| Uranus | 6 | 47 | 0 |
| Glance | 7 | 42 | 32 |
| Lintie | 7 | 58 | 0 |
This will give some idea of the application of time allowance.
The Royal Eastern, established 1835, is a small Scottish Club whose existence may be noted; but yachting does not flourish much on the East Coast.
CHAPTER III
IRISH CLUBS
THE ROYAL CORK YACHT CLUB
By R. T. Pritchett
The ancestral origin of this club, which has its station at Queenstown, was the Water Club of the Harbour of Cork, established in 1720. It is therefore the doyen par excellence, and its rules and orders as carried out in its early days are original and entertaining. A few of the rules may be quoted:
I. Ordered that the Water Club be held once every spring tide, from the first spring tide in April to the last in September inclusive.
II. That no Admiral do bring more than two dishes of meat for the entertainment of the club.
III. Resolved that no Admiral presume to bring more than two dozen of wine to his treat, for it has always been deemed a breach of the ancient rules and constitutions of the club, except when my Lords the Judges are invited.
V. Ordered that the Secretary do prepare an Union flag, with the Royal Irish harp and crown on a green field in the centre.
Ordered that the Water Club flag be hoisted on club days early in the morning on the Castle of Haulbowline.
IX. Ordered that no long tail wigs, large sleeves or ruffles be worn by any member at the club.
Ordered that when any of the fleet join the Admiral, if they have not guns to salute they are to give three cheers, which are to be returned by the Admiral, and one cheer to be returned by the Captain so saluting.
XIII. Resolved that twenty-five be the whole number of the members that this club may consist of.
XIV. Resolved that such members of the club or others as shall talk of sailing after dinner be fined a bumper.
XX. Ordered that the Knight of the Island for the time being do suffer no person or persons whatsoever to go into the club room, unless brought by a member, or by an order of five members at the least, under their hands, on pain of being cashiered.
XXI. That the Admiral singly, or any three captains whom he shall appoint, do decide all controversies and disputes that may arise in the club, and any Captain that shall refuse to abide by such decision is to be expelled. N.B. This order to extend to the Chaplain, or any other inferior officer.
April 21, 1737.—Ordered that for the future, unless the company exceed the number of fifteen, no man be allowed more than one bottle to his share, and a peremptory. [What a 'peremptory' was remains a mystery.]
- Old Members, 1720
- Lord Inchiquin
- Hon. James O'Bryen
- Charles O'Neal
- Henry Mitchell
- Rich. Bullen, Chaplain
- John Rogers
- New Members, 1760
- * Thomas Newenham
- Morough O'Bryen
- George Connor
- Rich. Longfield
- James Nash
- William Hodder
- * Philip Lavallin
- John Newenham
- Walter Fitzsimonds
- * Samuel Hoare
- William Hays
- Michael Parker
- * Abraham Devonshere
- John Bullen
- * Robert Rogers
- * James Devonshere
- John Walcot
- Thomas Parsons
- Henry Puxly
- Robert Newenham, Sec.
1760.—Members whose names are marked thus * subsequently died or left the club; the following were elected in their room, and are added in MS. in the old copy:—
- Edward Roche
- Edmund Roche
- Richard Dunscombe
- John Atkins
- John Baldwin
- Robert Baldwin
- Sampson Stawell
Yachts of Cork Water Club, 1720. From an old picture at the R.C.Y.C., Queenstown.
Sailing orders for the Water Club fleet, 1720
The fleet to rendezvous at Spithead on club days by the first quarter ebb, any boat not being in sight by the time the Admiral is abreast of the Castle in Spike Island, to forfeit a British half-crown for gunpowder for the fleet.
When the Admiral hoists his foresail half up, it is for the fleet to have a peak upon their anchor, and when the foresail is hoisted up and a gun fired, the whole fleet is to weigh.
Observe that if the Admiral wants to speak with any of the fleet he will make the following signals.
If with the Vice-Admiral he will hoist a white flag at the end of the gaff or derrick, and fire two guns.
If with any private Captain he will hoist a pendant at his derrick, and fire as many guns as the Captain is distanced from him and from the same side.
When he would have the fleet come to an anchor, he will show double Dutch colours at the end of his gaff and fire a gun.
When the Admiral will have the whole fleet to chase he will hoist Dutch colours under his flag, and fire a gun from each quarter; if a single boat he will hoist a pendant and fire as many guns from the side as a boat is distanced from him. When he would have the chase given over, he will haul in his flag and fire a gun.
Some storm seems suddenly to have burst upon the gay fleet, for after the year 1765 there is a long vacuum in the records. The club journal sets forth, however, that on July 1, 1806, the Marquis of Thomond, Lord Kingsale, the Fitzgeralds, the Penroses, the Newenhams, the Drurys, and others, styled therein 'original members,' met, and agreed to revive the old Water Club; but there is no reason to suppose that the club was set afloat in its ancient splendour, and the attention of the members would appear to have been chiefly directed to the useful purpose of exciting competition among the fishing and rowing boats in the harbour, to which they gave annual prizes.
ROYAL CORK YACHT CLUB QUEENSTOWN.
Towards the end of the year 1821, the yachting spirit of both sexes in Cork Harbour declined, and the Water Club was but feebly kept up; indeed, Lords Thomond and Kingsale, Messrs. Savage, French, Cooper Penrose, Thomas Roland, John Marragh, William Harrington, John Roche, with a few others, were its sole representatives; and the club as a body at this period may be almost said to have become extinct, as no meetings were held, or proceedings recorded.
But the next year a party of youngsters, higher up the river, took possession of the vacant territory, and in 1822 a little fleet was again seen in the harbour. This society, originating in a picnic club, having its rendezvous at Monkstown, and consisting of small craft, did not assume the title of the Cork Harbour Club, but contented itself with the more humble appellation of the 'Little Monkstown Club.' From these small beginnings, however, the present Royal Cork Yacht Club had its immediate origin, in 1828, when Thomas Hewitt, Caulfield Beamish, and a few other enterprising individuals of the Monkstown Club, supported by the patriotic proprietor of 'Footy,' John Smith-Barry, and the greater part of the old Water Club members then living, met and resolved to revive and re-establish it on a solid and permanent basis.
The new arrangements were judiciously made, and the club, re-established under the title of the Cork Yacht Club, rose rapidly to eminence.
The Water Club is ably and favourably noticed in the 'Tour through Ireland.' (London. Printed for J. Roberts, in Warwick Lane, 1748.)
Yacht Club Flags.
The dates show when the Clubs were established.
Cork Water Club putting out to sea, 1720.
I shall now acquaint your Lordships with a ceremony they have at Cork. It is somewhat like that of the Doge of Venice wedding the sea. A set of worthy gentlemen who have formed themselves into a body, which they call the 'Water Club,' proceed a few leagues out to sea once a year, in a number of little vessels, which for painting and gilding exceed the King's yacht at Greenwich and Deptford. Their Admiral, who is elected annually, and hoists his flag on board his little vessel, leads the van and receives the honours of the flag. The rest of the fleet fall in their proper stations and keep their line in the same manner as the King's ships. This fleet is attended with a prodigious number of boats, which, with their colours flying, drums beating, and trumpets sounding, forms one of the most agreeable and splendid sights your Lordships can conceive.
The Union with harp and crown in the centre on a green field, was granted by the Lords of the Admiralty to William, Earl of Inchiquin, for the Cork Harbour Yacht Club, in 1759.
The present club-house is delightfully situated at Queenstown; though old association clings rather to Haulbowline, with its quaint history. The old pictures in the club-rooms of the Water Club yachts are valuable as showing what the craft were in those days. Age has sombred them down so much that many details are unfortunately lost. We are indebted to Major H. H. Newman, the Hon. Secretary, for his assistance, and also to Major Lysaght, who kindly photographed these paintings.