Do you hear the gentle lapping of the Charles River against the hull? We’re standing before the Riverside Boat Club a place steeped in history. Founded in 1869, the Riverside Boat Club emerged from the industrious spirit of workers at the Riverside Press.
Initially, it was a trade-based club. Predominantly Irish workers sought camaraderie and competition. Rowing was immensely popular then. The club quickly evolved. It began welcoming members beyond the printing press. Riverside Boat Club maintained its working and middle-class character. Its leadership remained distinctly Irish.
The Riverside Boat Club wasn’t just about rowing. It excelled in boxing, track and field, and various other sports. As its membership swelled, Riverside constructed a new boathouse in 1891. It stood between the Riverside Press and the Cambridge Electric Company. The first floor housed rowing facilities. The second floor was a hall for social gatherings. It became a neighborhood hub and a political force. In 1902, the club’s president registered numerous immigrants. John H. H. McNamee, the club’s treasurer, became Cambridge’s first Irish mayor.
Disaster struck in 1911. The 1891 boathouse burned down. But Riverside Boat Club was resilient. It replaced the structure with the present boathouse in 1912. This new facility was built on parkland leased from the city.
The early 20th century was a golden age. In 1900, the Riverside Boat Club’s eight won the New England Amateur Rowing Association championship. The Boston Globe called it the first racing club in America. By 1906, Riverside’s senior eight claimed the national championship. Controversy followed. Accusations of pre-race drinking swirled. The New York Athletic Club challenged Riverside’s victory. They claimed replacement rowers were used after some members had been drinking. A formal investigation ensued. Riverside’s witnesses testified. They swore no substitutions occurred. The lead investigator sided with Riverside. The club’s 1906 national championship was upheld.
Riverside Boat Club faced decline after World War I. But it rebounded remarkably. Today, Riverside is a vibrant institution. It has over 300 active members. Roughly half are women. Riverside stands as the sole survivor among Boston’s many neighborhood-based rowing clubs. It’s a training center for United States Rowing.
Riverside has a long tradition of excellence. In 1936, Riverside earned the right to represent the USA in the 4+ at the Olympics. Many athletes have represented the United States in World Championship regattas and the Olympic Games. Riverside had six athletes compete at the 2015 World Rowing Championships in Aiguebelette, France. Riverside is still a dominant force in club and masters racing.
Now, look up at the banners hanging inside the boathouse. These banners tell tales of Riverside’s victories. Two banners commemorate the July 4, 1909 regatta. That day, tragedy struck the Charles River. A strong wind caused boats to swamp. One rower drowned. Despite the chaos, Riverside’s Carey Faulkner won the senior singles race.
Riverside Boat Club’s story is one of perseverance. It is about community and athletic achievement. Founded by working-class immigrants. Enduring fires and controversies. Riverside continues to thrive. It welcomes new members to carry on its legacy. The mission of the Riverside Boat Club is to support its members’ rowing goals. They promote the enjoyment of rowing by providing quality equipment and coaching in a friendly environment.