eastern yacht club marblehead membership cost

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Eastern yacht club: a journey through its rich history and vibrant community

The founding of the eastern yacht club

Setting sail: the early years.

The Eastern Yacht Club, nestled in Marblehead, Massachusetts, officially set sail in the year 1870. It was founded by a group of yachting enthusiasts who envisioned a club dedicated to the spirit of sailing and camaraderie in the boating community. With Marblehead Harbor as its backdrop, the club quickly became a beacon for yacht racing and maritime activities in the region.

General Charles Paine: a cornerstone

One of the most notable early members was General Charles Paine, whose influence and leadership significantly shaped the club's formative years. Paine, a prominent figure in American yachting history, was renowned for his contributions to competitive sailing, including his involvement in America's Cup campaigns. His legacy at the Eastern Yacht Club paved the way for future generations of sailors.

The rise of the Eastern Yacht Club

By the early 1900s, the Eastern Yacht Club had firmly established itself as a premier institution. The club's reputation was bolstered by its members' numerous victories and participations in prestigious regattas. The Eastern's fleet, often flying eastern colors, became synonymous with excellence and sportsmanship.

Yachting history: glorious days and streamlined designs

Throughout its history, the Eastern Yacht Club has been at the forefront of yachting innovation. The club's emphasis on streamlined yacht designs and competitive racing has cemented its status as a leader in the sailing world. The glory days of huge racing yachts racing through Marblehead Harbor are fondly remembered by members and sailing enthusiasts alike.

From then to now

Today, the Eastern Yacht Club continues to honor its rich heritage while embracing modern advancements in yachting. The club's history is not just a chronicle of the past but a living tradition that members proudly uphold. As the club looks to the future, it remains a pivotal institution in Marblehead and the broader yachting community.

For more insights into prestigious yacht clubs, check out this dive into prestige and history at the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club .

Notable members and their contributions

Notable members and their lasting legacy.

The Eastern Yacht Club (EYC) in Marblehead, Massachusetts has been home to some truly impressive members who have made significant contributions over the years. One such notable member is Ted Hood , an acclaimed yachtsman, boat designer, and America's Cup winner. Hood's influence is enduring; his innovations in sail design and yacht engineering have cemented his legacy not just at EYC, but in the yachting world at large.

Another eminent figure is General Charles J. Paine , a three-time defender of the America's Cup. Under his leadership, the Eastern Yacht Club flourished in the sports competition scene, contributing to its reputation as a cornerstone in American yachting history. His strategic acumen remains a source of inspiration for current members.

Additionally, let's not overlook Elizabeth Parker , a formidable personality in the realm of yacht clubs, who became the first woman to serve on EYC’s Board of Directors. Her role paved the way for greater gender diversity within the club, illustrating the progressive direction taken by EYC. This inclusive move has been instrumental in attracting a broader range of members.

Contributions to yacht racing and nautical heritage

The club has been integral in promoting yachting as a sport. Members of the Eastern Yacht Club, flying Eastern colors, have participated in numerous prestigious events such as the America Cup and the Shields Nationals . These ventures have not only brought accolades to the club but also enhanced its standing in the international yachting community.

For instance, EYC has consistently been the site for critical class regattas, like the IOD Worlds and the North Americans . These events attract high-caliber competitors and offer EYC members unique opportunities for high-stakes racing and networking.

It's also worth noting that the club has been a stalwart in yacht restoration, helping to preserve the maritime history and heritage. Organizations like the Eastern Yacht Club Marblehead are dedicated to these restoration efforts, ensuring the rich yachting history is honored and passed down through generations.

The club's role in yachting history

Significant contributions and historical moments.

Eastern Yacht Club has been at the helm of numerous pivotal events in yachting history. Founded on the principles of excellence and camaraderie, the club quickly cemented its place in the elite circles of yachting. One of the most iconic moments was in the mid-20th century when the club's members significantly contributed to the design and building of the American yacht Intrepid , which won the America’s Cup in the 1967 and 1970 editions.

Ted Hood, an influential figure and a member of the Eastern Yacht Club, championed the advancements in sailmaking techniques and yacht designs during his tenure. Hood's innovations have had a lasting impact on the yachting world, pushing the envelope in terms of performance and competitiveness.

Pioneers of Yachting Excellence

One notable figure associated with the Eastern Yacht Club is General Charles Paine. General Paine was instrumental in the club’s early years and played a crucial role in organizing numerous regattas, setting the stage for what would become a hub of competitive sailing. In recognition of his contributions, the club named one of its regatta trophies in his honor.

Elizabeth Parker, another prominent member, made significant strides for women in yachting. Her dedication paved the way for greater female participation in the sport, influencing the club's inclusive policies. Elizabeth’s contributions were so impactful that the Eastern Yacht Club initiated the annual Parker Cup, celebrating her legacy.

Hosting Prestigious Regattas

The club’s pristine location in Marblehead Harbor provides the perfect backdrop for hosting prestigious regattas, attracting sailing enthusiasts from around the globe. The Shields Nationals and IOD Worlds are some of the major events that the Eastern Yacht Club proudly hosts, making it a centerpiece of the yachting calendar.

Racing events held at the Eastern Yacht Club are not merely about competition; they are about community, tradition, and the love of the sport. Fleets decked out in club colors, smashing across the waters of Marblehead, evoke a sense of pride for both members and spectators. These events play a crucial role in promoting yachting to newer generations and ensuring the sport’s enduring legacy.

Legacy of Excellence

With over a century of yachting history, Eastern Yacht Club has contributed immensely to the sport's development and popularity. The club's legacy of excellence is evident in its continually evolving infrastructure and the caliber of events hosted.

For those interested in yachting history and vibrant community life, an exploration of Eastern Yacht Club's storied past offers rich insights into the American yachting scene.

Facilities and amenities at the club

Eastern yacht club’s modern marvels and comfort.

Nestled in the quaint town of Marblehead , Massachusetts, the Eastern Yacht Club has evolved its facilities dramatically since its founding. Picture yourself enjoying a sunny afternoon on the club's Samoset Porch, which offers stunning views of Marblehead Harbor. This stunning locale has become a haven for both members and guests, serving as a vibrant social hub.

The club features several amenities aimed at fostering an active social and sporting life. The Henderson Dining Room is renowned for its exquisite cuisine, prepared under the guidance of renowned chefs. Imagine savoring a gourmet meal while overlooking the serene waters, creating a perfect blend of luxury and comfort.

In the spirit of tradition and competition, Eastern Yacht Club hosts several prestigious yacht racing events . The IOD Worlds and Shields Nationals are just some of the notable regattas that draw participants from around the globe. Ted Hood, a famous yacht designer and a former member, significantly contributed to these events' prestige.

For those more inclined towards leisure than competition, the club also provides amenities like tennis courts and a swimming pool. This blend of sport and relaxation ensures there's something for every club member to enjoy.

The clubhouse itself is a landmark of sophistication, adorned with historical memorabilia that narrate the rich heritage of sailing in the United States. Members frequently gather here to reminisce about the glorious days of huge racing yachts , while new members are quickly indoctrinated into the rich tradition of the club.

Eastern Yacht Club continues to invest in its facilities to ensure that it remains not just a sailing institution but a welcoming community. The board, steered by dedicated members, regularly reviews opportunities for improvement, ensuring a blend of historic charm and modern convenience.

Membership and fees

Understanding the membership.

At the Eastern Yacht Club in Marblehead, becoming a member is both an honor and a commitment. The club's membership forms a close-knit community, united by a shared passion for yachting and a love for Marblehead Harbor.

The decision to join the club isn't taken lightly, and there's a detailed application process in place. Applicants must be nominated and seconded by current members. This traditional approach ensures that the club maintains its rich legacy and camaraderie. As quoted by Elizabeth Parker, a longtime member, 'The sense of belonging and the shared experiences are what make the Eastern Yacht Club truly special.'

The membership fees are structured to cover the various amenities and activities the club offers. While exact figures may vary yearly, a general idea can be garnered: initiation fees range from around $10,000, with annual dues averaging between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on the type of membership. Additionally, there are options for junior memberships, which cater to younger enthusiasts, and these come at a reduced rate, encouraging the next generation to embrace the joys of yachting.

Benefits and privileges

Membership at the Eastern isn't just about fees and formalities; it's about the array of benefits that come with it. Members enjoy access to state-of-the-art facilities, including tennis courts, the Henderson dining room, the Samoset porch, and the club house, which serves as the social hub. Additionally, there are numerous yachting events such as the Shields Nationals and the IOD Worlds that members can participate in.

Another significant benefit is the opportunity to be part of a legacy. General Charles Paine's words echo through the halls: 'To be a member is to walk through yachting history.' This sentiment is evident in the colorful history of racing yachts day and the huge achievements recorded in the club's annals.

Community contributions

The members' contributions have been monumental to the club's growth. Notable figures like Ted Hood and numerous others have left indelible marks. Their contributions shape activities ranging from yacht racing to social events, making each year at the club both memorable and impactful.

The Eastern Yacht Club isn't just about yachting; it's about fostering a sense of belonging, community, and shared passion. With its rich history, vibrant community, and a forward-looking approach, the club continues to be a cornerstone of Marblehead's yachting scene. The return on investment for members isn't just in facilities or events; it's in being part of a legacy.

Annual events and activities

Celebrating the seasons with regattas and gatherings.

At the Eastern Yacht Club, annual events and activities are more than just dates on the calendar—they're cherished traditions that bring the community together. Among the most anticipated events are the regattas. The club is home to the Marblehead to Halifax Race, one of the oldest and most renowned offshore races in North America. Held biennially in July, it attracts competitive yachts and enthusiasts from across the continent.

From sailing to social activities

The club's busy schedule doesn’t end with racing. Class regattas and the Shields Nationals are a testament to the club's deep roots in competitive sailing. The Independence Day Fireworks and Memorial Day celebrations are annual highlights, bringing families together on the club's idyllic grounds. The Eastern Yacht Club also hosts the prestigious Corinthian Yacht Club events, further solidifying its role in yachting history.

Exclusive social events and gatherings

Beyond sailing, members enjoy a variety of social events throughout the year. The Henderson Dining Room and Samoset Porch serve as the backdrops for elegant dinners, while the annual Commodore’s Ball, held in the grand club house, is a sparkling affair that draws members old and new. These events foster camaraderie and a sense of belonging among the club's members.

Engaging youth programs

The Eastern Yacht Club places a strong emphasis on youth engagement, offering sailing programs that cultivate young talent and love for the sport. From summer camps to junior regattas, kids are given ample opportunity to learn and compete. The club’s commitment to fostering the next generation of sailors is a cornerstone of its identity.

A blend of tradition and innovation

While steeped in tradition, the club continuously evolves, introducing new activities and events to keep the community vibrant. This balance between honoring heritage and embracing new ideas keeps the Eastern Yacht Club a relevant and treasured institution in Marblehead and beyond. As members engage in tennis courts competitions, book clubs, and art exhibitions, the club's multifaceted nature is always on display.

The eastern yacht club's impact on Marblehead

Impact on the local community.

The Eastern Yacht Club is more than just a gathering of boat enthusiasts; it's a cornerstone of Marblehead, Massachusetts. Founded over 100 years ago, its influence is felt far and wide within of Marblehead. Notable members like Elizabeth Parker have played significant roles in shaping the club and the local community.

In the early days, the club was pivotal in establishing Marblehead as a premier yachting destination. Over the years, the club's annual events, notably the Shields Nationals and IOD Worlds, have attracted visitors from all over the world, bringing considerable business to local restaurants, shops, and hotels. This influx of tourists has a significant positive impact on Marblehead's economy.

Community outreach and activities

The club’s community outreach extends beyond economic contributions. They offer sailing programs for local youth, aiming to instill skills and values that go beyond the waters. Additionally, the Eastern Yacht Club engages in environmental stewardship activities, such as clean-up operations for Marblehead Harbor and advocacy for sustainable sailing practices. These initiatives make the club a good neighbor within the community.

Notably, the Eastern Yacht Club also offers its facilities for local events and gatherings. The Henderson Dining Room and Samoset Porch are popular venues for weddings, charity events, and social gatherings, making the club an integral part of the social fabric of Marblehead.

Partnerships with local businesses

The Eastern Yacht Club has formed partnerships with various local businesses, further enriching Marblehead's economic landscape. By sourcing from local vendors for their dining facilities and events, they support the local economy. The club's marine-related activities also benefit local marinas, boat repair shops, and sailing gear retailers.

Future initiatives and sustainability

The Eastern Yacht Club continues to plan future initiatives that will deepen its relationship with Marblehead. Recent plans have included programs to further community engagement and sustainability. As the club looks forward, balancing modern needs with the rich tradition of yachting remains a guiding principle.

From the bustling activity during the club racing yachts day to its continued environmental contributions, the Eastern Yacht Club remains an integral part of Marblehead’s history and future. The club’s board and members show that there’s more to this prestigious institution than just yachts; it’s about giving back and being a vital part of a thriving community.

Future directions and initiatives

Embracing the future while honoring the past.

The Eastern Yacht Club has navigated through numerous changes and developments over its long history, always finding ways to stay relevant and meaningful to its members. Looking ahead, the club aims to embrace innovation while honoring its rich heritage.

One of the club's key initiatives is focusing on sustainable practices in yachting. Recognizing the impact of maritime activities on the environment, the club is committed to implementing eco-friendly measures. This includes promoting the use of electric-powered yachts and reducing carbon footprints during events. John Davis, a prominent marine biologist, has been advising the club on incorporating green practices, emphasizing, "Sustainable yachting is not just a trend, but a necessity for the future."

Additionally, the club is investing heavily in technology to improve member experience. From online membership management tools to digital navigation aids on the water, the Eastern Yacht Club ensures that its members have access to the latest advancements. The club has also upgraded its internet infrastructure to provide high-speed connectivity for members and guests, a move much appreciated in today's connected world.

The rejuvenation of the club's physical infrastructure is another priority. Plans are in motion for a significant renovation of the historic clubhouse. These renovations aim to preserve the building's traditional charm while integrating modern amenities. The board, led by Commodore Michael Thompson, envisions a space that balances elegance and functionality: "Our goal is to create a clubhouse where history and modern comfort coexist harmoniously."

Efforts are also underway to foster a more inclusive and diverse membership base. The club has traditionally been seen as exclusive, but recent years have seen a conscious shift towards inclusivity. Membership campaigns now focus on reaching out to younger generations and underrepresented communities. As Treasurer Nancy Parker puts it, "Growing our membership in new and diverse directions is vital for the club's future vibrancy and sustainability."

The development of youth programs remains a crucial focus. The club's sailing school and junior regatta programs are integral to nurturing the next generation of sailors. These initiatives not only teach valuable skills but also instill a love of yachting from a young age. Testimonies from former participants, like Sarah Jenkins, who went on to compete in international sailing championships, underscore the long-term impact of these programs.

With a promising future that adheres to the traditions of yachting while embracing modern innovations, the Eastern Yacht Club stands poised to sail confidently into the new era. As the club continues to evolve, its commitment to providing an exceptional and inclusive experience for all its members remains steadfast.

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Eastern Yacht Club

In 1870, the eastern yacht club was formed when twelve men created an organization dedicated to the promotion of yachting. over the years, the eastern has established itself as one of the most distinguished yacht clubs in america.  overlooking marblehead's breathtaking harbor, the eyc offers its members and guests a wealth of opportunities to enjoy activities on sea and on land. .

In 2015, we completed a major renovation of the entire Clubhouse which we are quite proud of.  Along with our formal Henderson Dining Room, we have the outdoor Samoset Porch informal dining facility. These dining settings are situated with a panoramic view of the harbor. We also cater to first class private events and world class regattas (e.g., the Sonar Worlds, IOD Worlds, Viper and Etchell’s NA). Our campus includes an aquatics facility, three paddle tennis courts, six tennis courts, a junior sailing program, children’s summer camp, two full-service bars and of course, access to the harbor for a number of sailing related events and activities. The Eastern is a member of the International Council of Yacht Clubs, a world-wide yachting organization that includes some of the most prominent clubs in their respective regions. There are clubs from North America, Europe, Scandinavia, England, Asia, New Zealand, Australia and Africa. The primary purpose of the ICOYC is for Leading Yacht Clubs to Work Together to Share Experiences. One way in which this knowledge is shared is by holding Commodore’s Forums with panel presentations. These panels offer insights into how other clubs operate and provide a unique opportunity to have access to information that is closely guarded and not generally available. The opportunity to discuss these issues with officers of other clubs is invaluable. For a list of the clubs and to find other information about the ICOYC please click  HERE . 

Among the oldest and most distinguished yacht clubs in America, the Eastern Yacht Club embodies the very essence of the history of ‘yachting’. When yachting in Massachusetts was in its infancy, a group of gentlemen from Boston organized themselves as the Eastern Yacht Club for the purpose “of encouraging yacht building, and naval architecture, and the cultivation of nautical science.” Twelve successful businessmen, “imbued with the true yachting spirit,” according to a contemporary newspaper account, met in March of 1870. Within a month they had enrolled 110 members with 23 yachts. Construction of the clubhouse on Marblehead Neck was completed in 1881. Already known as the “Birthplace of the American Navy”, Marblehead became the homeport to some of the most beautiful schooners and steamers to be built during this time establishing itself as ‘the yachting capital of the world.’ From the beginning, the Club took a leadership position in every facet of yacht racing. The 94-foot sloop Puritan, flying the Eastern colors, successfully defended the America’s Cup in 1885 against challenger Genesta of the British Royal Yacht Squadron. This victory marked the first of three successful Cup defenses against the British by Eastern yachts in as many years- an extraordinary feat. Mayflower answered the challenge of Galatea in 1886, sending her packing in light air off New York. And in 1887, steel cutters Volunteer and Thistle engaged, and Volunteer, owned by Eastern member General Charles Paine, gained victory for America once again in a stunning defeat. Committed from its incorporation to superior naval architecture, the Eastern’s membership has included such celebrated designers and builders as Edward and Starling Burgess, Nathanael and L. Francis Herreshoff, Ray Hunt, and Ted Hood. The club’s roster of members boasts such revered names across the ages in yacht racing as Charles Francis Adams, skipper of Yankee; Chandler Hovey, whose J Class Yacht Rainbow and Twelve Meter Easterner graced America’s Cup trials; Bradley Noyes, whose Tiogas gained multiple victories and the legendary Ted Hood, yacht designer, sail maker and winning skipper of the 1974 America’s Cup aboard the 12 Meter Courageous. Hood was elected to the America’s Cup Hall of fame in 1993. In recent years, our club has been proudly represented around the world by seven-time Etchells Worlds champion Dave Curtis; Jud Smith, two time winner of Rolex Yachtsmen of the year and 10 time World Champion in multiple classes, and Dru Slattery, internationally ranked in women’s sailing. The club’s history is so full of characters and achievements, however, that for every one mentioned, there are literally dozens of others deserving attention. Of most recent note is Rich Wilson, who recently completed his second Vendee Globe solo around the world race in Great American III as the only American and oldest entrant, finishing in 107 days. Rich’s record-breaking voyages around Cape Horn about his trimaran Great American II captivated 300,000 thousand schoolchildren through his Sites Alive education portal. Aboard Great American II, he also set two new records between New York and Melbourne, and Hong Kong-New York, and finished second in the Transatlantic Race in 2004. From the Sonder class regattas that preceded World War I to the competitive one-design and performance handicap (PHRF) races of today, the Eastern has played host to a multitude of major sailing events, local, national, and international. In 2019, we will host both the IOD Worlds and the Laser Masters North American Championship. Other major regattas have included the 2018 J70 Worlds, the Etchells Worlds, Soling Worlds, Star Worlds, IOD Worlds, Olympic Classes Regattas, Viper 640 North Americans, Sonar North Americans, and Shields Nationals, as well as the Soling North Americans, a preliminary race for the ‘96 Olympics. In 1994 the club received the coveted St. Petersburg Yacht Club Trophy, awarded for the Race Committee’s outstanding management of the Star North Americans. A visit to the Eastern is a walk through yachting history, from the glorious days of the huge racing yachts to the present-day streamlined one designs. The trophy cases display such treasures as the Puritan Cup, the Lambert Cup, the Cleopatra’s Barge trophy, even a trophy once carried on Admiral Nelson’s flagship, as well as an array of Olympic medals. One hundred and fifty years of yachting history reside here! A digital copy of our “The Eastern Yacht Club, A History from 1870-1985” by Joseph E. Garland may be accessed  via this link . Click  HERE  to view interviews/contemporary history of the Club, and follow the "Did You Know?" links below to learn some interesting facts about the Eastern Yacht Club.

HISTORY COMMITTEE

Elizabeth W. Parker, Chair Email: [email protected] A Complete List of Committee Members Can Be Found Here

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Eastern Yacht Club

The Eastern Yacht Club was founded in 1870. Throughout its history “the Eastern” has consistently pursued its mission of “encouraging yacht building and naval architecture and the cultivation of nautical science.” Yachts flying Eastern colors successfully defended the America’s Cup three times in the mid-1880’s. Its interest in the America’s Cup continued into the 20th century, when Eastern members built J-Boats and 12-Metres in hopes of defending the America’s Cup; and Eastern members sailed on a number of 12-Metres that successfully defended the Cup. Eastern members have built and owned numerous offshore racing boats that have successfully competed in local and international races. Members have also won world and national championships in a number of classes.

Stories from Eastern Yacht Club

In 1870, twelve Boston gentlemen organized themselves as the Eastern Yacht Club, a club dedicated to the promotion of yachting. Within one month, they had enrolled 110 members with 23 yachts. The Clubhouse on Marblehead Neck was completed in 1881.

From the beginning, the Club became a leader in yacht racing with Puritan, Mayflower, and Volunteer , all flying Eastern colors, successfully defeating their British challengers in the America’s Cup in 1885, 1886, and 1887, respectively. The Eastern has hosted a multitude of local, national, and international sailing events from the Sonder class regattas that preceded WWI to the competitive one-design and PHRF races of today, including the Etchells Worlds, Star Worlds, IOD Worlds, Olympic Class Regattas, Viper 640 North Americans, Sonar North Americans, Shields Nationals, and the Soling North Americans, a preliminary race for the ’96 Olympics. In 1994, the club received the coveted St. Petersburg Trophy, awarded for the Race Committee’s outstanding management of the Star North Americans.

Eastern’s Race Committee is active throughout the summer and is recognized as one of the very best in the country. Throughout the clubhouse you will find paintings, photographs, trophies and models that mark the history of America yachting from the glorious days of huge racing yachts to the present day streamline one-designs. The club’s model room contains over 65 half-models of historic and modern yachts. Additional half models and many stunning full models are displayed throughout the Club.

A visit to the Eastern is a walk through yachting history, from the glorious days of the huge racing yachts to the present-day streamlined one-designs -130 years of yachting history. Throughout the Clubhouse, you can find trophies and medals marking the Club’s illustrious history as well.

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Monday, November 6, 2017

The three yacht clubs in marblehead, massachusetts.

I haven't been in any of the three yacht clubs in Marblehead, Massachusetts, for some years, but I remember how each used to demonstrate physically its place on the New England social ladder. Out on Marblehead Neck, where all the summer people have their places, are the Eastern Yacht Club and the Corinthian Yacht Club. Old families with old money — that is, families that have been in the area (including the Boston area) for a number of generations — belonged to the Eastern Yacht Club. No one else was allowed to join. The clubhouse itself always looked to me as if it might collapse. It needed stain or paint, there always seemed to be a loose board or two out on the porch, and the dining and other facilities were modest, though with a certain quiet, old charm. However, belonging to the Eastern meant you were "in." If you didn't belong, you were "out" — and might just as well join the Corinthian Yacht Club.

The Corinthian accepted new people with new money, and its clubhouse and docks were new, meticulously maintained, modern, and posh. To a Texan or anyone else not knowledgeable in New England ways, inspection of the physical facilities of the Eastern and the Corinthian back in those days would have caused the Corinthian to be the immediate and obvious choice. From the New England point of view, that would be all well and good. As my aunt on my father's side once told me, "A Texan may be a braggart, but he can never be a snob."    

Then there was the Boston Yacht Club, located across the harbor from "the Neck," in the town of Marblehead. It was always considered the place for those not in any way interested, or able to be interested, in social considerations. It was for townspeople. So its clubhouse was neither run down nor posh. It was straightforward, perfectly comfortable, practical. Of course, some members of old area families, particularly the young ones with old money, deliberately chose the Boston Yacht Club over the Eastern. That's a related but slightly different form of snobbery, which was negated completely if you belong to both, as some did.

- Judson Hale, Inside New England < http://amzn.to/2x2m576 > 

13 comments:

Very amusing, but where does the Boston Yacht Club fit in this pecking order--the yacht club on the other side of the harbor not on "The Neck" and the sponsor of the venerable Marblehead-Halifax Ocean Race?

In my opinion, it's number 1!!

Meghan, right? :)

This all reminds me of the book The Status Seekers written in 1959 by Vance Packard. It's one of the most searing and sardonic looks at social status I've ever read. It really opened my eyes.

Jud with one d - I bet he'd write it the same way now!

But what about Pleon?

Pecking order is quite a bit different today. And Marblehead has 3 clubs on the town side and 3 clubs on the neck side.

Hilarious, but I think a Texan can be a snob. A lot are old southern families going back to the First Families of Virginia and the Jamestown group can be just as snobby as the Plymouth haha

If that's the case you will never know it because FFV and Jamestowne Society members do not brag. The snobs are the Highland Park new monied.

For many years my family enjoyed "belonging" at the Boston Yacht Club. We always parked just outside that quite small parking lot at the club and for good reason. We would take the launch out to our sailboat and sound the horn for pickup when it was time to get a ride back at the end of the day....one prolonged, two short if my memory serves me right. What a wonderful aura to the place...until they finally figured out we weren't actually members! Ooops! My father had an uncanny knack for walking into places he didn't belong as if he owned them. Ultimately we joined the Corinthian for real...I think. If we weren't members there I feel for whoever had to pick up our food tab at the pool.

That is a great story, I'll bet your father is/was an interesting man.

Are these ‘rules’ still applied in 2018 ? I am a member of the Royal Cape Yacht Club ( 44 years good-standing) and I can tell you things have changed. When I joined in 1974 I was given a ‘look up, and down’. I recall a superior of mine, possibly twice my age, who applied at the same time but was ‘blakballed’ as not being ‘suitable’. Somehow I doubt this still goes on. Except perhaps at certain clubs in the St James club area in London.

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Marblehead – Yacht Clubing

A visit to Marblehead’s sailing society

With more boats per capita than anywhere on the planet, Marblehead has long been known as “the sailing capital of the world.”

For those who wish to join the sailing set, Marblehead has a variety of clubs to choose from.

Two of the town’s clubs are found on Marblehead Neck, an exclusive community separated by the mainland by a long causeway that is perfect for jogging or biking.

Founded in 1885, the Corinthian Yacht Club on Nahant Street ( www.corinthianyc.org ) offers a beautiful clubhouse as well as swimming and tennis facilities.

“There’s many things yacht clubs can offer,” says Dave Titus, Corinthian’s clubhouse general manager, “but the view of the harbor we have here is spectacular!”

In addition to their frequent social events and tennis tournaments, Corinthian also hosts special yachting events, including the Trans-At Challenge in September, which brings a squadron of 60-foot boats from as far away as England.

“They’re quite a [thing] to view,” Titus says.

At present, Corinthian has 520 members.

“We have an extremely active membership, which is happy with what the club offers them,” says Titus. “It’s a very friendly community.”

According to membership committee member Jack Frankel, however, the club doesn’t take unsolicited applications.

“It’s a private club and new members are sponsored in a multiyear process,” he says.

Nearby on Foster Street is the Eastern Yacht Club ( www.easternyc.org ) with its six tennis courts and pool.

According to club lore, EYC was started in 1870 by “12 hardy men.” Its halls are packed with trophies, including one that was once carried on the flagship of famed British sailor Admiral Nelson! No wonder, then, that the Eastern has often been chosen to host Olympic sailing trials and many vanguard regattas.

“We consider ourselves a yacht club and try to encourage it at all levels,” says a member who wished to remain anonymous (the Eastern places a premium on privacy).

Across the harbor are the Boston, Dolphin, and Marblehead yacht clubs.

Organized in 1866, the Boston Yacht Club ( www.bostonyachtclub.net ) offers a dining room and bar, commodore’s lounge, and other facilities. And as it is located on Front Street, which runs along the harbor, the BYC also offers an amenity that the Neck clubs don’t.

“You can get dropped off here and walk around downtown Marblehead,” says general manager Mark McMahon, citing his club’s proximity to mainland shops and restaurants.

According to membership chair Martha Quigley, the BYC also requires sponsorship for new members. Even so, McMahon noted, around 20 slots tend to open at the end of each sailing season.

Though it may be difficult for people to gain immediate entrance to some clubs, there are other ways to get into the sailing scene. Among these are getting started early as a member of Marblehead’s youth yacht club, Pleon ( www.pleon.org ), or taking memberships at clubs that do not require sponsorship, meeting others at multi-club events (such as Marblehead’s world-famous Race Week) and then having them sponsor you down the road.

Though the 55-year-old Dolphin Yacht Club on Allerton Place ( www.dolphinyachtclub.com ) has no tennis courts or pool, the view of the harbor is beautiful, the kids’ room is a great place for younger sailors to hang out, and the food (provided by Sylvan Street Grill) is rather tasty. As for membership, it is inexpensive and does not require sponsorship.

“You don’t need to wait 10 years to get in,” says commodore/treasurer Patti Cohen of the club that, for many years, was the only place for Jewish sailors to congregate. And, as the club’s website states, “We are actively seeking new members!”

One caveat: If you want a full boating membership, you need to have a mooring in Marblehead Harbor. There are 1,400 of these and the waiting list is about 15 years. However, you can still be an out-of-harbor member for $350 or a social member for $225. The Dolphin also offers a kayaking membership for small-craft fans.

Lastly we come to the club that takes its name from its hometown. Built in 1878, the Marblehead Yacht Club on Cliff Street ( www.marbleheadyc.org ) is the most down-home of all.

“This is by far the most inexpensive club,” says club manager Steve Karger, who has been a member for 25 years.

With food service Friday through Sunday (the MYC is BYOB), the club offers its 356 members three launches that cover 60 percent of the harbor and a fleet of rowboats you can take to your yacht.

“We’re the mirror image of the Corinthian,” Karger says, pointing across the harbor, “only in this way.”

In philosophy, the club mirrors the Dolphin more closely, as it was the first place Irish-Catholic sailors could join. In 1935, the MYC instituted a policy requiring that  “anybody joining be considered as an individual, not part of a group.”

These days, however, the only “group” that most members want to be counted among is Marblehead’s large group of sailors.

So whether you want cotillions and pool parties or just a way to get to your boat, join the club!

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47 Foster St

Marblehead, MA 01945

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nice views. food is definitely on the higher up side for the buffets too. nice boat shuttle staff/service. pool has been swarmed by children every time.

Our host, Doug, spoke about how wonderful the Eastern Yacht Club was for ages. When we finally experienced it? Better than advertised. Even the no cell phone policy was great -- how often do you get to sit and focus on friends instead of the world beyond the people you are with. Great food, good times. Highly recommended.

EYC is lovely. I've been a few times with a dear friend. The views are to die for, the food is outstanding, the drinks are great and reasonably priced, unexpected for such a place. the traditions going back so many years are simply wonderful. I can't wait to go back!!!

My last experience at the EYC was quite the experience. It started out with us being yelled at by 3 different life guards to get out of the pool for being under 16 during adult swim, which was false. Then we proceeded to eat. The staff in there was the best, we had a massive order and they were very nice about it. Then afterwards we had an accident in which the ambulance needed to be called, which the inside staff gladly helped with.

I went to a wedding reception here last weekend (Sept 11) and it was a pretty good time. The little itty bitty sliders were delicious, flavorful pops in the mouth. The lobster rolls were delicious. The rest of the food was just "okay". Everyone at our table agreed that there was something funky going on with the chicken skewers. The desserts were really cute. Warm chocolate chip cookies with milk, "smores" and a couple others. The parking situation was a bit ridiculous, especially around 4:00pm. Great views and a great space. Bathrooms were tiny though!

Allen Schiller is one of the rudest people I've dealt with on the phone.

I went to a wedding here - unbelievably beautiful. Great views and about as scenic as New England gets.

I was really surprised to hear from a friend of mine who was employed by them. Worked had all summer, got pay checks, only to find that they don't pay time and a half for over time. Instead, they take those extra hours and add them on to rain days or an extra check after the summer is over. Perhaps someone should contact the authorities on this practice? Fox News Worthy! Other than that it seems to be a well run place.

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