Admiralty Office to the Secretaries of Yacht Clubs concerning warrants to fly flags

Maker Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty

Date1878

Object number00003074

NameLetter

MediumInk on paper

Dimensions340 x 210 mm, 0.007 kg

ClassificationsEphemera

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionThis circular from the Admiralty Office in London was sent to secretaries of colonial yacht clubs in 1878 to ensure that correct protocols were followed by club members when flying flags that displayed 'Her Majesty's colours' on their craft. Vessel owners had to apply through their clubs for warrants to use British Royal colours or devices. Any unauthorised use could incur a large fine.HistoryRegattas 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. Yachting regattas were held by individual clubs as well as yachting associations enabling interclub and interstate competitions for different classes of yachts.SignificanceThis circular is representative of the history of colonial yacht clubs and the protocols that existed towards the end of the 19th century.