The Bellport-Brookhaven Historical Society

BBHS Events Page
 

Summer Party

  Description
  Invitation
  Reservations
  Return Card
  Program
  Auction
 


100 YEARS ON THE BAY

A SPECIAL EXHIBITION PRESENTED BY
THE BELLPORT-BROOKHAVEN HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM
IN HONOR OF

THE CENTENNIAL OF THE BELLPORT BAY YACHT CLUB

On July 21, 1906, a hundred cottagers (summer people) and locals were invited to a meeting at the Goldthwaite Inn to talk about the founding of a local yacht club. Two weeks later the club had fifty members and a blue and red burgee with a single star.

The club's first event was star-crossed. The August 4th regatta started with a fresh southwesterly wind and spectators lining the shore, but the Minnetonka was dismasted and capsized and the Elvira was disqualified, leaving the Swan triumphant. A week later the Ladies Race was won by Marion Brown and her sister Florence Brown.

By mid-century locals outnumbered cottagers in the Bellport Bay Yacht Club and the social aspects of yachting were eclipsed by dedication to the art of sailing, and so it has remained to this day when the club sponsors not only races but also classes for children and adults.


The Museum of the Historical Society includes the John Chester Boathouse and in addition holds a wealth of photographs, boat gear, and paintings that reflect the closeness of Bellport and Brookhaven to the sea. In honor of the 100th Anniversary of the Yacht Club the Museum is presenting a special exhibit drawn from its collections and from the collections of the Yacht Club. Our Opening Night Gala will be followed by the Bellport Chamber of Commerce presentation of Grucci Fireworks at the dock, a display sponsored in part by the trustees of the Historical Society.

Funds raised at the Opening Night Gala - our only fund-raiser to be held this year - will be used by the Historical Society, a non-profit organization, to fulfill its mission of preserving the rich history, heritage, and beauty of our Long Island communities. Your additional contributions will be greatly appreciated and will be acknowledged in the printed programs of the Gala and of the Exhibition.

   
         
 

© 2004-2007 The Bellport-Brookhaven Historical Society