On days when sailboats race, our lake wears one her most picturesque faces.
The first sailboat is believed to have launched before 1870. A craft named “Water Witch”, was built before the civil war for Mr Crowell.
Many followed in a fleet operated by Oscar Stevens.
A. H. (Lon) and D. H. Green were two brothers who sailed the Great Lakes as young lads. They started the Black Diamond fleet at the foot of Main. The attached photos show the building, a few of the fleet and Lon kicking back.
In 1892 the Iowa State Regatta was held on our gem of a lake. The excitement generated even more interest in sailing.
Sailboat races began in ernest in the early 1900’s. They were extremely competitive! Serious sailors were hired and considerable cash was wagered. These were the new “B” boats, designed for pleasure and racing.
The Clear Lake Yacht Club was established in 1935. Their mission was and remains;
“To promote clean sportsmanship and competitive spirit among boat owners and sailors; to teach respect for water safety to lovers of one of the oldest sports- the racing of sailboats.”
Dues were $1.00 a year. The Club had no place to call home. They met in various public places and members homes.
By 1940 the CLYC boasted 9 “C” boats and 18 “X” boats.
Over the years the races evolved from disorganized messes to the Olympic courses and rules that govern them today.
In 1953, the CLYC joined the Inland Lake Yachting Association and adopted the familiar “Z” moniker.
In 1984, the Club finally got a home. The City agreed to rent the former Jaycee bathhouse to them. After some necessary sprucing up, the tiny headquarters went on to host many events.
In 2001, the charming cottage like building south of City Park was completed . The Club raised the money for the building, continues to pay rent to the City, pays the utilities and donated a substantial sum for the construction of the new bathrooms by City Beach.
From July 10-13 you can come and watch the Inner Lake Regatta of “E” boats. Although the races look peaceful and serene, any sailor would tell you they are nothing but peaceful or serene.
These photos are from the History Collection at the Clear Lake Library.