THE GROSSE POINTE CLUB HARBOR YACHTING HISTORY
Established in 1926, the first work was completed on a permanent
dock. The first assessment of $100 was levied in April of 1929 for
protection of the yacht basin and creation of additional slips and
clubhouse improvements. Waterfront activity built up in the 30's. The
Walker trophy was a gift from Mr. Hiram Walker to promote interest in
yachting among members. Late 30's brought the Yachting Committee
together and the hosting of DRYA Regattas.
By the 1940 season, it was reported that 38 members were boat owners
and maintained their boats at the Club, 65 members were users of boats
belonging to the Club, and that 46 children had been instructed in
sailing. The installation of a metal seawall and concrete dock began in
May of 1952. Yachting activity began to rise and beginning in 1959, the
presentation of the John Buel Warren, Jr. Memorial Trophy was
established and presented to the most outstanding Junior Sailor. By the
year 1957, 33 children were enrolled in the Junior Sail Program and the
DRYA awarded the Club the Sutton Trophy.
In the 60's the recommendation of new boat wells came from the
Commodore. He estimated that in the next season there would be 64 boats
owned by members, and we only had 36 wells that could be considered
adequate. This issue was resolved when boat owners decided to pay a 3
year fee in advance. By 1968, the Yachting Committee elected to install
separate electric meters for the three yachts on which whip personnel
were living. In August, the Club sponsored the Mallory Cup Regatta,
which was regarded by many as the "greatest sailing event" in the United
States.
The harbor continued to flourish throughout the next three decades, and
by the late 90's the walk down to the shore would reveal a much expanded
harbor with slips for 76 boats with many crafts much larger than ever
before. The Junior Sailing program continued to grow with new Flying
Juniors and Optimist Class boats and enrollment of 30+ students for
beginners and intermediate racing sailors. It was decided that the Jr.
Sailing program become a separate entity of The Grosse Pointe Club. In
the early part of 2002, The Grosse Pointe Club Junior Sailing Club was
born and became a 501.c3 organization. In September 2004 it hosted it's
first "Annual Silent Auction & Jr. Sail Raffle" where over 80
members attended and brought in over $30,000 to benefit the sailing
program. Thus, the harbor is an important part of history to this
special place we call "the Little Club".
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