A History Of Unqua Corinthian

At the turn of the century, nine men who loved sailboats and sailboat racing organized a small club so they could indulge their favorite sport.

The men: Delancey T. Smith, Francis A. Williams, Charles P. Molineaux, Warren Purdy, William Bleecker, Edward Bleecker, John E. Ireland, George F. Booth, and M. M. Woodman

The club: Unqua Corinthian Yacht Club
On September 7, 1900, the yacht club was incorporated, and on November 12, 1900 received the blessing of the Supreme Court.

John Ireland solved the first formidable problem of "where to build the club" by generously donating the original land. Then, spring 1901, the present clubhouse was constructed with a large central hall and porches on three sides. To reach the club from Ocean Avenue, trees were laid as a base for a wagon road over the mud and grass of the salt marsh. There was also a boardwalk for people on foot, and a pipeline for the club's water (which nearly boiled under the summer sun by the time it reached the club).

For many years, sailing was the main activity of the club. Many of the members' boats were handled by professional captains and crews and starred in numerous wagers. Ladies were invited to the club only on special occasions.

But gradually the club took shape as the Unqua Corinthian we know today.
In 1913, in place of the former T-shaped pole dock and boardwalk, the front grounds of the club were bulkheaded and filled, and a lawn area was planted. In 1914, a bathing beach was opened opposite the club, and Unqua Place was completed. Around 1915, the bath houses were built over the former tennis courts. Land north and east of the clubhouse was filled. And in 1918, the canal to the west was staved and filled.

1928 marked the addition of the dining room and kitchen wings, and later a small bar. When the bar was no longer large enough, the present French Room was erected, a gift of the late Commodore John H. French. Commodore Bradley's term saw construction of the north parking field and docks. These were the gift of Mrs. Rufus Ireland in memory of her husband who had served many years as Governor and Commodore. Later, Mrs. Ireland also generously cancelled the mortgage on the club property. In 1934, shortly after the Cross Bay Channel was dug, the Heading was opened. Mr. Kenneth Ireland and Commodore Rufus J. Ireland, Jr. donated the beach station fireplace.

In 1964, the present solid dock and sluiceway were constructed. And in 1965, Unqua added the beautiful Olympic-size swimming pool which has given so much pleasure to so many members. 1966 saw further improvements at the Heading in the form of sanitary facilities, fireplaces and a flagpole. In 1970, the T-Dock was enclosed to provide additional space for members' boats. And in 1980, the porch was enclosed to provide a casual dining area, and the Clubhouse was fitted with air conditioning. After several years of planning and saving, under the leadership of Commodore Robert Chester, the two phase renovation of the Clubhouse was completed in 1994. The first phase completed in 1992 included a new bar overlooking the bay and an exterior rebuilding of the original structure. The final phase provides a new kitchen, renovated dining room and a new snack bar with deck for picnic lunches.

After 100 illustrious and colorful years, Unqua today is still a vigorous and growing club, thanks especially to the leadership and generosity of its Commodores, to the dedication of its staff, and to the loyalty and enthusiasm of its members.

To all of them-all of these years-our deepest gratitude for the Unqua Corinthian Yacht Club we enjoy today.

Photo Gallery

 
Home