History

Our Heritage

The Indian Harbor Yacht Club, perched on Greenwich’s Rocky Neck Point, is a private club with a long and storied yachting tradition. It was founded in 1889 by a group of dedicated sailors determined to be part of the thriving sailing community on Long Island Sound. When the Club was incorporated, its station was located at Finch’s Island (otherwise known as Tweed Island) in Captain’s Harbor, Greenwich, just 100 yards away from the mainland. After a few years of temporary locations, in May 1897, the Club found its current location on Rocky Neck Point.

Since its inception, Indian Harbor has been dedicated to upholding and fostering the Corinthian spirit in yachting. At the heart of the Club’s mission is the directive “to encourage and support the sport of yachting, the art of yacht designing and building, and the science of seamanship and navigation.” Given the hospitality and sociability that accompany the sport, the Club’s mission likewise extends to “provide for the amusement and recreation of its members”. The Club’s mission thrives today as our members continue to excel on the racecourse, embrace the pleasures of cruising, and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow members.

Since 1890, Indian Harbor Yacht Club members have excelled in yachting at all levels and have shown leadership in the sport, including handicap racing, one-design racing and ocean racing. In addition, our members have contributed to the establishment of national organizations that define the sport. Member Commodore Mallory started what now is known as US Sailing. The Indian Harbor Yacht Club remains dedicated to continuing to excel in our mission and to contribute to the future success of sailing and seamanship at both a local and an international level.

Opening Day, 1897

Current clubhouse, circa 1921

OUR CLUBHOUSE

In 1919, when the Club was 30 years old and membership stood at 400, the clubhouse burned to the ground. Plans for a new structure began without delay, under the direction of noted American architect Henry Pelton and Charles Wills Construction Company, both men Club members.

The cornerstone was laid on July 9, 1920. Memorabilia, including a list of officers of the Club, the date of incorporation, and the builders and the architect of the new structure, were placed in a copper box. During construction, then Commodore Smyth donated to the Club a bespoke brass medallion bearing the official seal of the Club, suitable for insertion in the floor of the porch, where it remains today.

The new clubhouse opened on schedule, on Decoration Day 1921 (now Memorial Day). More than 532 people stayed for dinner! More than a century later, the clubhouse not only remains a beloved gathering place for its members, but also is a national treasure, having been added to the National Registry of Historic Places. Today, Indian Harbor is a steward of this historic building, which also benefits from the support of the Indian Harbor Yacht Club Foundation.