And They're Off!! A Look at the Folks Behind the Scenes of The Royal St. John's Regatta

The Royal St. John's Regatta is the oldest organized sporting event in North America. It has been a part of Newfoundland history for 185 years. The first record of an organized event is in 1818, but rowing matches were common among ships crews in St. John's Harbour since at least ts the 1700's.

These days, the Regatta draws crowds of up to 50,000 people annually to the shores of Quidi Vidi Lake. With all the excitement of the races, food and games of chance, we may forget that organizing an event like this takes a lot of time and effort from many dedicated people. Here's are a few archival snaps of some of the people behind the scenes at the Royal St. John's Regatta.

[1.502.025] Bob Sexton Prepares Racing shell at Lawrence's Carriage Factory, Gower Street: for annual Regatta on Quidi Vidi lake. Sexton was a master boat builder. [190?]
Courtesy of: The Rooms Provincial Archives



[1.502.008] Judges Boat at Regatta, Quidi Vidi [before 1900]
Courtesy of: The Rooms Provincial Archives

 

[1.502.065] St. John's Regatta Committee [1906]
Courtesy of: The Rooms Provincial Archives

[1.502.001] St. John's Regatta - Quidi Vidi: Item consists of The earliest photo of the St. John's Regatta known to exist. The photo was taken at the head of Quidi Vidi Lake and shows what appears to be six boats lined up at the stakes and awaiting the firing of the starter's gun. Note in particular the two figures in the foreground and to the right of the photo. Apparently a bet on the outcome of the race has taken place, and is being sealed by a hand-shake. [ca.1880]
Courtesy of: The Rooms Provincial Archives