Johnston’s Bay Sailing Club program 1896
Date1896
Object number00045170
NameProgram
MediumPaper
DimensionsOverall: 120 x 150 mm, 5.17 g
ClassificationsEphemera
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Michael Cross
DescriptionThis program documents the activities of the Johnston's Bay Sailing Club which operated in Sydney from 1891 to 1902. The program originally belonged to William H Golding, a Sydney boat builder and designer active from the 1880s to the 1920s. It provides valuable information on local and interstate regattas of the same era as well as vessels that Golding designed, built and sailed.HistoryWilliam H Golding was a Balmain, Sydney based boat builder and designer active from the 1880s to the 1920s. He constructed yachts and skiffs including ITONIA, FLORRIE, MISCHIEF, BETTY, EILEEN, GOLDIE, BROTHERS and SENGA. Golding was also involved in competitive sailing races at the time.
Regattas were central to competitive boating from the 19th century and functioned as a social and sporting occasion as well as a marker of official anniversaries in a public aquatic spectacle. Civic leaders, politicians and merchants offered patronage and sponsorship. Community regattas often featured several races, including rowing, sculling and sailing events usually for professional watermen and amateurs. The regatta was not just a means for exercising competitive sport but also a focus for social and recreational entertainment in Sydney. Sites around the foreshore provided a place for spectators to gather and have picnics, while night time entertainment was provided with dances and recitals.SignificanceThis program gives a concise picture of recreational and competitive sailing in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and highlights the work of the pioneer Sydney boat builder William H Golding.
