Imagine a crew of determined women their oars slicing through the Schuylkill. This is the Philadelphia Girls’ Rowing Club or PGRC. It stands proudly as the oldest all-female rowing club. PGRC is located on historic Boathouse Row in Philadelphia.
Let’s step back to 1938. Seventeen women dared to challenge the male-dominated sport of rowing. They formed the Philadelphia Girls’ Rowing Club. They wanted to row when other clubs wouldn’t allow women. These women were pioneers.
The Philadelphia Girls’ Rowing Club’s boathouse has a rich history. It was built in 1860. The structure initially housed the Philadelphia Skating Club and Humane Society. Architect James C. Sidney designed it. His design even included boat storage for neighboring rowing clubs. Samuel Sloan’s “Italian Villa” influenced the design. Construction finished in 1861 costing about $4,900.
The Undine and University Barge Clubs stored boats there. They remained there until they built their own boathouses. The second Iona Boat Club occupied the space from 1884 to 1895.
Indoor skating rinks led to a decline in river skating. In 1965, the Philadelphia Girls’ Rowing Club purchased the boathouse. This ensured their continued presence on Boathouse Row.
The Philadelphia Girls’ Rowing Club achieved significant milestones. In 1966, its Women’s Eight won the first National Women’s Rowing Championships. They won again in 1967. They were also the first American women’s club to compete in the European Rowing Championships. The city honored the club with a Key to the City.
PGRC’s impact extends beyond competition. Elizabeth Griffin Bergen became Commodore of the Schuylkill Navy in 1981. Carol Bower won a gold medal in the 1984 Olympic Games. Joanne Iverson was inducted into the NCAA Women’s Rowing Hall of Fame.
The Philadelphia Girls’ Rowing Club continues to thrive. It offers programs for juniors, novices, and masters rowers. The club preserves its historic home. It ensures future generations can experience the Schuylkill.
Today, the Philadelphia Girls’ Rowing Club stands as a symbol of perseverance. It is a testament to women’s achievements in sports. As you look at the boathouse remember its story. Think of the women who broke barriers and propelled PGRC to greatness. Their legacy lives on in every stroke on the Schuylkill River.