SPORTS HISTORY BLOG
Over 250 articles on all aspects of Scottish sport
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The two photographs below have a unique place in sporting history: taken in Edinburgh in 1848, they represent the first group photos of sportsmen ever taken.
Two groups of St Andrew Boat Club members in 1848, from the albums of the Edinburgh Calotype Club (National Library of Scotland)
St Andrew Boat Club, founded in 1846 in Edinburgh, is Scotland's oldest open boat club and recently celebrated its 175th anniversary.
The club was only two years old when seven of its members members appeared in these photos, which were preserved within the albums of the Edinburgh Calotype Club. Those books are now held by the National Library of Scotland, and the albums were fully digitised for the Pencils of Light exhibition.
Photography was in its infancy: the calotype process was invented by Henry Fox Talbot in 1841, and taken up in Edinburgh by Hill & Adamson a couple of years later. They took the first known sports photos of John Laing, a tennis or rackets player, who I have already written about.
It was a step forward from having a single subject who was standing motionless for a long exposure, to taking a photograph of a group, and the challenge was taken up by Hugh Lyon Tennent. He was a member of both the Calotype Club and the Rowing Club, and is credited with taking the photos, perhaps with the assistance of his brother Robert. The venue is almost certainly the club house at Fountainbridge, on the Union Canal.
Identifying the seven men was a challenge, as the caption for the first photo simply named the rowers as 'T Dickson, Hastie, Hugh Lyon Tennent, Rd Campbell, Seton, JS Tytler, Arbuthnot'. The second photo has the same subjects but Tennent has moved to the right of the group.
However, the recent publication of a history of St Andrew Boat Club has helped, not only to confirm all their identities, but also to pinpoint the date.
The club was only two years old when seven of its members members appeared in these photos, which were preserved within the albums of the Edinburgh Calotype Club. Those books are now held by the National Library of Scotland, and the albums were fully digitised for the Pencils of Light exhibition.
Photography was in its infancy: the calotype process was invented by Henry Fox Talbot in 1841, and taken up in Edinburgh by Hill & Adamson a couple of years later. They took the first known sports photos of John Laing, a tennis or rackets player, who I have already written about.
It was a step forward from having a single subject who was standing motionless for a long exposure, to taking a photograph of a group, and the challenge was taken up by Hugh Lyon Tennent. He was a member of both the Calotype Club and the Rowing Club, and is credited with taking the photos, perhaps with the assistance of his brother Robert. The venue is almost certainly the club house at Fountainbridge, on the Union Canal.
Identifying the seven men was a challenge, as the caption for the first photo simply named the rowers as 'T Dickson, Hastie, Hugh Lyon Tennent, Rd Campbell, Seton, JS Tytler, Arbuthnot'. The second photo has the same subjects but Tennent has moved to the right of the group.
However, the recent publication of a history of St Andrew Boat Club has helped, not only to confirm all their identities, but also to pinpoint the date.
Membership list for St Andrew Boat Club for the first three years of its existence, from its foundation in 1846.
The club history published a list of members, starting with the 18 founders in April 1846, and detailing all who signed up in succeeding years. The Ordinary Members are those who lived in Edinburgh, while Extraordinary Members are mainly those who were in the military and therefore only in the city for a short time.
Dickson, Campbell, Tennent and Seton were all founding ordinary members in 1846, while Tytler joined the following year. The other two were only in Edinburgh for a short time and joined as extraordinary members: Hastie in 1848, and Arbuthnot for 1847-48. The date of the photo can therefore be pinpointed to the latter year.
The seven men in the photo can now be identified with some degree of certainty:
Thomas Goldie Dickson (1819-1905), an accountant who lived at 3 Royal Circus. Educated at Edinburgh Academy, he was also a member of John Hope's Foot-Ball Club in 1836. He was later notorious for his involvement in the Ardnamurchan clearances.
Charles Nairn Hastie (1809-1868), a solicitor from East Grinstead, Sussex, he was only in Edinburgh briefly and stayed at 136 Princes Street. In May 1848 he joined the Boat Club and was elected a Member of the Highland Agricultural Society.
Hugh Lyon Tennent (1817-1874), an advocate of 9 Lynedoch Place. Educated at Edinburgh Academy 1826-32. Related to the Tennents of brewing fame.
Ord Graham Campbell (1816-1890), a lawyer and Writer to the Signet, of 102 George Street. He was also a prominent golfer, member of the Royal & Ancient, and the Honorable Company of Edinburgh Golfers.
George Seton (1822-1908), an advocate of 13 Coates Crescent. Educated at Royal High School, then Edinburgh and Oxford Universities, he was a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, an expert genealogist and served in the Royal Company of Archers.
James Stuart Fraser Tytler (1820-91), a lawyer and Writer to the Signet, of 27 Rutland Square. Educated at Edinburgh Academy and Edinburgh University, he became a Professor of Conveyancing at the university.
Charles George Arbuthnot (1824-1899), Born in Ireland and educated at Rugby, he was a Lieutenant in the Royal Artillery, based at Leith Fort. He went on to a prestigious army career, serving in Crimea, Afghanistan and India, becoming Lieutenant General Sir Charles Arbuthnot.
Dickson, Campbell, Tennent and Seton were all founding ordinary members in 1846, while Tytler joined the following year. The other two were only in Edinburgh for a short time and joined as extraordinary members: Hastie in 1848, and Arbuthnot for 1847-48. The date of the photo can therefore be pinpointed to the latter year.
The seven men in the photo can now be identified with some degree of certainty:
Thomas Goldie Dickson (1819-1905), an accountant who lived at 3 Royal Circus. Educated at Edinburgh Academy, he was also a member of John Hope's Foot-Ball Club in 1836. He was later notorious for his involvement in the Ardnamurchan clearances.
Charles Nairn Hastie (1809-1868), a solicitor from East Grinstead, Sussex, he was only in Edinburgh briefly and stayed at 136 Princes Street. In May 1848 he joined the Boat Club and was elected a Member of the Highland Agricultural Society.
Hugh Lyon Tennent (1817-1874), an advocate of 9 Lynedoch Place. Educated at Edinburgh Academy 1826-32. Related to the Tennents of brewing fame.
Ord Graham Campbell (1816-1890), a lawyer and Writer to the Signet, of 102 George Street. He was also a prominent golfer, member of the Royal & Ancient, and the Honorable Company of Edinburgh Golfers.
George Seton (1822-1908), an advocate of 13 Coates Crescent. Educated at Royal High School, then Edinburgh and Oxford Universities, he was a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, an expert genealogist and served in the Royal Company of Archers.
James Stuart Fraser Tytler (1820-91), a lawyer and Writer to the Signet, of 27 Rutland Square. Educated at Edinburgh Academy and Edinburgh University, he became a Professor of Conveyancing at the university.
Charles George Arbuthnot (1824-1899), Born in Ireland and educated at Rugby, he was a Lieutenant in the Royal Artillery, based at Leith Fort. He went on to a prestigious army career, serving in Crimea, Afghanistan and India, becoming Lieutenant General Sir Charles Arbuthnot.
Front cover of the new club history
St Andrew BC remains a vibrant organisation, which only last week opened a new boathouse at Meggetland in Edinburgh. Rowing legend Dame Katherine Grainger, who has represented the club throughout her career, did the honours.
The history of the club is a fascinating read with many interesting photos, a 90 page paperback which is available from the club, price £10.
For further research, the club's extensive archives are held at the National Records of Scotland (Ref GD418).
The history of the club is a fascinating read with many interesting photos, a 90 page paperback which is available from the club, price £10.
For further research, the club's extensive archives are held at the National Records of Scotland (Ref GD418).
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To conclude my short series of posts about rowing in the west of Scotland in the Victorian era, a fascinating history was published in the Glasgow Herald on 24 December 1881, which I reproduce below. It captures not only the key personalities and events, but also highlights the challenges facing the rowers as the river in the heart of the city was developed. This article could be the starting point for serious research into the development of Scottish rowing, which would surely be a good PhD for someone!
ROWING ON THE CLYDE
It is only about forty years since boat-racing was begun on the upper reaches of the Clyde, the pioneers of the movement being the famous Blue Bell Crew, at that time the crack rowers on the river. These were succeeded by the Bannatynes, better known as the Jem Brown crew, who successfully carried off many of the chief prizes. The celebrated Reid brothers’ crew proved worthy successors, and during a couple of seasons were seldom defeated. The Campbells were the next oarsmen of note who attained more than local celebrity, and for several seasons they carried almost everything before them, while portraits of the brothers were exhibited in almost all the sporting houses in the city. The Milligans were also first-class rowers in their day, and the Browns, better known as the “Navvie's crew”, were for a number of years the terror of the Clyde. About thirty years ate several scratch crews were made up year by year, and as these included such pullers as John Carroll, the celebrated Manchester oarsman (who, at that time had a boat-hiring establishment on tie Clyde); “Bolts”, so called from his connection with an iron-foundry; James McFarlane; George Geddes, present keeper of the Humane Society house; Robert Glen; and last, not least, the late Banks McNeil, who for so many years took a prominent part in all aquatic sports on the Clyde, it is not matter for surprise that they won some of the highest prizes for which they contended. In one season they defeated the celebrated Duffy’s crew, of Dumbarton, at Lochlomond, and next year beat the famous McAllisters, who were the originators of the outrigger as applied to skiffs or other racing boats.
Robert McAllister, one of this famous crew, is now the principal boatbuilder in the West of Scotland for small rowing craft, and this year supplied the two new racing skiffs to the St Mungo Rowing Club. About that time a regatta took place on Kilbirnie Loch, at which some of the “crack” Glasgow oarsmen competed. The punt race in particular between Robert Campbell and George Geddes caused a great sensation. After a splendid race the champion was beaten by half a length. No other regatta has since taken place on the loch. The four-oared race, for the championship of Scotland was rowed on the Gareloch about that period. The scratch Glasgow fours were favourites, but the Perth crew easily carried of the honours, along with a handsome money prize. For several years afterwards there were no Glasgow crews of any note, though scratch fours occasionally made their mark on the Clyde. Duncan Cameron made a creditable appearance as a sculler, and also took a prominent part in pair and four oared races. Among the amateurs, the most prominent were Thomas Lindsay, who about 16 years ago, was considered to have the finest style of rowing on the rivers; and the brother Graham and the brothers Fletcher afterwards greatly distinguished themselves. The Grahams were powerful men, fought some determined struggles, and almost invariably won. The last time the brothers contested in an open race, they only defeated their opponents by half a length. The Grahams have never since entered a rowing boat, although the brothers are in request to act as umpires at most of the regattas on the Clyde and at the coast. Having thus briefly referred to rowing on the Clyde in its more palmy days, we shall proceed to give some details about more recent events.
During the past season much greater interest has been evinced in aquatic sports on the upper reaches of the river than at any time during the last six or seven years. After a lengthened period of great activity, during which Glasgow produced some oarsmen of more than local celebrity, a number of adverse circumstances arose which tended to damp the ardour of lovers of aquatics in Glasgow, The principal of these was in conjunction with the removal of the weir, and the consequent erection of an unsightly structure for the purpose of carrying water pipes across the Clyde, to supply the mills on the South Side from West Thorn New Water-works, instead of the former supply from the river.
The arches of this temporary structure were so narrow that first-class jolly boats or skills could not pass with safety, and it necessarily divided the old time-honoured regatta course, from the weir to Jenny’s Burn, in two, and all the races had to be turned at the Suspension Bridge. The removal of the weir itself was a slow process, and during the transition stage of its demolition little or no spirit was shown in aquatic circles, and the Glasgow crews, which were formerly so much dreaded at Dumbarton, Port Glasgow, Greenock and all the prominent regattas at the coast became demoralised. No English crews were tempted to visit our waters, and the regatta gradually fell off in interest.
The only exception to this general decadence has been the Printers’ Regatta, established some nine summers ago, which has year by year grown in reputation, and is now one of the most important fixtures of the season. The obstructions are now happily all removed, and at high tide there is a clear waterway from Broomielaw to Rutherglen Bridge. Owing, however, to a recent bye-law of the Clyde Trust the water-course is only available for training above the Albert Bridge, but during regattas the Trust will no doubt grant permission to start the long races from the Broomielaw. This would ensure a magnificent straight-away course of fully a mile, and tend to greatly foster the interest in aquatics.
The article continues with a detailed assessment of the progress made by the principal Glasgow rowing clubs in existence at that time, Clydesdale, Clyde and St Mungo. The original can be read online at this link, scroll to page 6 and enlarge.
ROWING ON THE CLYDE
It is only about forty years since boat-racing was begun on the upper reaches of the Clyde, the pioneers of the movement being the famous Blue Bell Crew, at that time the crack rowers on the river. These were succeeded by the Bannatynes, better known as the Jem Brown crew, who successfully carried off many of the chief prizes. The celebrated Reid brothers’ crew proved worthy successors, and during a couple of seasons were seldom defeated. The Campbells were the next oarsmen of note who attained more than local celebrity, and for several seasons they carried almost everything before them, while portraits of the brothers were exhibited in almost all the sporting houses in the city. The Milligans were also first-class rowers in their day, and the Browns, better known as the “Navvie's crew”, were for a number of years the terror of the Clyde. About thirty years ate several scratch crews were made up year by year, and as these included such pullers as John Carroll, the celebrated Manchester oarsman (who, at that time had a boat-hiring establishment on tie Clyde); “Bolts”, so called from his connection with an iron-foundry; James McFarlane; George Geddes, present keeper of the Humane Society house; Robert Glen; and last, not least, the late Banks McNeil, who for so many years took a prominent part in all aquatic sports on the Clyde, it is not matter for surprise that they won some of the highest prizes for which they contended. In one season they defeated the celebrated Duffy’s crew, of Dumbarton, at Lochlomond, and next year beat the famous McAllisters, who were the originators of the outrigger as applied to skiffs or other racing boats.
Robert McAllister, one of this famous crew, is now the principal boatbuilder in the West of Scotland for small rowing craft, and this year supplied the two new racing skiffs to the St Mungo Rowing Club. About that time a regatta took place on Kilbirnie Loch, at which some of the “crack” Glasgow oarsmen competed. The punt race in particular between Robert Campbell and George Geddes caused a great sensation. After a splendid race the champion was beaten by half a length. No other regatta has since taken place on the loch. The four-oared race, for the championship of Scotland was rowed on the Gareloch about that period. The scratch Glasgow fours were favourites, but the Perth crew easily carried of the honours, along with a handsome money prize. For several years afterwards there were no Glasgow crews of any note, though scratch fours occasionally made their mark on the Clyde. Duncan Cameron made a creditable appearance as a sculler, and also took a prominent part in pair and four oared races. Among the amateurs, the most prominent were Thomas Lindsay, who about 16 years ago, was considered to have the finest style of rowing on the rivers; and the brother Graham and the brothers Fletcher afterwards greatly distinguished themselves. The Grahams were powerful men, fought some determined struggles, and almost invariably won. The last time the brothers contested in an open race, they only defeated their opponents by half a length. The Grahams have never since entered a rowing boat, although the brothers are in request to act as umpires at most of the regattas on the Clyde and at the coast. Having thus briefly referred to rowing on the Clyde in its more palmy days, we shall proceed to give some details about more recent events.
During the past season much greater interest has been evinced in aquatic sports on the upper reaches of the river than at any time during the last six or seven years. After a lengthened period of great activity, during which Glasgow produced some oarsmen of more than local celebrity, a number of adverse circumstances arose which tended to damp the ardour of lovers of aquatics in Glasgow, The principal of these was in conjunction with the removal of the weir, and the consequent erection of an unsightly structure for the purpose of carrying water pipes across the Clyde, to supply the mills on the South Side from West Thorn New Water-works, instead of the former supply from the river.
The arches of this temporary structure were so narrow that first-class jolly boats or skills could not pass with safety, and it necessarily divided the old time-honoured regatta course, from the weir to Jenny’s Burn, in two, and all the races had to be turned at the Suspension Bridge. The removal of the weir itself was a slow process, and during the transition stage of its demolition little or no spirit was shown in aquatic circles, and the Glasgow crews, which were formerly so much dreaded at Dumbarton, Port Glasgow, Greenock and all the prominent regattas at the coast became demoralised. No English crews were tempted to visit our waters, and the regatta gradually fell off in interest.
The only exception to this general decadence has been the Printers’ Regatta, established some nine summers ago, which has year by year grown in reputation, and is now one of the most important fixtures of the season. The obstructions are now happily all removed, and at high tide there is a clear waterway from Broomielaw to Rutherglen Bridge. Owing, however, to a recent bye-law of the Clyde Trust the water-course is only available for training above the Albert Bridge, but during regattas the Trust will no doubt grant permission to start the long races from the Broomielaw. This would ensure a magnificent straight-away course of fully a mile, and tend to greatly foster the interest in aquatics.
The article continues with a detailed assessment of the progress made by the principal Glasgow rowing clubs in existence at that time, Clydesdale, Clyde and St Mungo. The original can be read online at this link, scroll to page 6 and enlarge.
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The challenges facing sports clubs in the Victorian era were highlighted in this article from the Glasgow Herald, published on 25 June 1877. Rowing was a major sport on the River Clyde in the 19th century, with thousands lining the banks for regattas and competitions; it is under-researched but the newspapers are full of interesting anecdotes, some of which I will be publishing in the near future.
THE GLASGOW ROWING CLUB - DIFFICULTIES
On Friday last the effects of the Glasgow Rowing Club (including two boats, one of which was simply stored in the club-house and the other the private property of a member) were brought to the hammer in a somewhat summary manner. From the information we have received, it would appear that the club was in a state bordering on impecuniosity, or at all events the treasurer was unable to pay the rent of their premises.
Summary steps were threatened to realise, and some ten days ago a letter was, we understand, sent to the treasurer stating in effect that unless the rent, amounting to some-where about 10 guineas or so, was not forthcoming by a certain date the stock-in-trade of the club would be sold by auction. This letter was left in a shop near the club-house, where the treasurer's letters were generally left, but unfortunately, as it is said, the treasurer did not turn up within the given time, and an officer, armed with the proper authority, arrived at the club-house and caused the boats of the club, valued, we are told, at least £30, to be brought out for sale.
As usual at such summary sales brokers are not far distant, and on this occasion one of the fraternity had "smelt a rat." The auctioneer asked whether or not there was any member of the rowing club present, but he received no answer; but on putting the question a second time, he was answered in the affirmative. He then asked the member if he was prepared to pay the rent, and a negative reply was given. The sale then went on, and the boats and oars, which were disposed of in lots, were knocked down to a broker for £8 odds. As the story goes, the broker in "turning the penny" sold his bargain within an hour afterwards for £19 odds. One of the private boats thus sold will in all likelihood form the basis of litigation. When the news spread on Friday evening that the stock of the rowing club had changed hands several of the members, who were entirely ignorant of what had been going on, expressed themselves in no measured terms at the apathy of their "friends" who knew of the sale and who in their absence did not come to the rescue.
THE GLASGOW ROWING CLUB - DIFFICULTIES
On Friday last the effects of the Glasgow Rowing Club (including two boats, one of which was simply stored in the club-house and the other the private property of a member) were brought to the hammer in a somewhat summary manner. From the information we have received, it would appear that the club was in a state bordering on impecuniosity, or at all events the treasurer was unable to pay the rent of their premises.
Summary steps were threatened to realise, and some ten days ago a letter was, we understand, sent to the treasurer stating in effect that unless the rent, amounting to some-where about 10 guineas or so, was not forthcoming by a certain date the stock-in-trade of the club would be sold by auction. This letter was left in a shop near the club-house, where the treasurer's letters were generally left, but unfortunately, as it is said, the treasurer did not turn up within the given time, and an officer, armed with the proper authority, arrived at the club-house and caused the boats of the club, valued, we are told, at least £30, to be brought out for sale.
As usual at such summary sales brokers are not far distant, and on this occasion one of the fraternity had "smelt a rat." The auctioneer asked whether or not there was any member of the rowing club present, but he received no answer; but on putting the question a second time, he was answered in the affirmative. He then asked the member if he was prepared to pay the rent, and a negative reply was given. The sale then went on, and the boats and oars, which were disposed of in lots, were knocked down to a broker for £8 odds. As the story goes, the broker in "turning the penny" sold his bargain within an hour afterwards for £19 odds. One of the private boats thus sold will in all likelihood form the basis of litigation. When the news spread on Friday evening that the stock of the rowing club had changed hands several of the members, who were entirely ignorant of what had been going on, expressed themselves in no measured terms at the apathy of their "friends" who knew of the sale and who in their absence did not come to the rescue.
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A couple more articles on the drama of competitive rowing in the west of Scotland from the late 1850s, the first dated 6 November 1857 from the Glasgow Herald:
SKIFF MATCH FOR THE CHAMPIONSHIP OF SCOTLAND AND £150
This match, which came off yesterday on Lochlomond, has excited more interest amongst the lovers of aquatics than, perhaps, any former event of a similar kind. Glasgow has for a number of years past taken the lead in the exhilarating and healthful exercise of boating; and apart altogether from anxiety to obtain a notoriety as first-class pullers or successful competitors for money prizes, competitions of a character similar to a the one we are about to notice have enervated the youth, we may say, of the city to perfect themselves not only in the propelling of boats but in that invaluable accomplishment, swimming. This latter art, it will be admitted by all, is an accomplishment of which everyone should be in possession, and the fact that racing boats have been brought to that degree of proficiency for swiftness, if not of peril, in waters other than the Clyde (or similar rivers) stimulates the pullers to perfect themselves In, the useful art of swimming. Thus far, we think, the enjoyment of aquatics on the Clyde has been beneficial.
We now come to the match to which reference has been made. The men - William Brown, John Carroll, and Robert Campbell, are more or less known to fame by the lovers of aquatics. Brown, one of the celebrated "Nancy" crew, who were so eminently successful in the Clyde in years gone by, beat McNeill in two different skiff matches. However pretty, and however much admired the pulling of McNeill was, he failed while competing with his more powerful opponent. The next competitor in course is Carroll, one of the champion of the world four-oared crew, the race for which took place in England several years ago. Carroll is a puller of no mean ability, but, unfortunately for himself, after gaining “golden opinions” in this quarter (for he originally hailed from Manchester) he did not keep up the perfect condition necessary for a competitor in aquatics, and was beaten during the present year by young Clasper of Newcastle, and Campbell of Glasgow. Campbell was one of the celebrated Duffy's crew, which were very successful. After being several years in McNeill's establishment, he entered the lists against Carroll, whom, as we have remarked, he vanquished.
Brown was trained by Robert Chambers, of Newcastle; Carroll, by Harry Clasper of Newcastle; and Campbell by John McKinney, of Richmond. Betting: Even on Brown against the field; even on Carroll; and 6 to 4 against Campbell. The result of the race had the effect of causing several hundred pounds to change hands - the “knowing ones” betting heavy in favour of Brown.
A special steamer was hired for the occasion, on board of were the Umpires, Messrs. Clasper, Chalmers, and McNeill, and the Referee, Captain Brown of the Queen Victoria Lochlomond Steamer, and a large concourse of gentlemen interested in the contest.
All the preliminaries having been arranged, and after two false starts, the boats went off in beautiful style, Brown and Carroll, who were on either side of Campbell, taking a slight lead. On nearing Inch Murran, Campbell improved his speed, and got ahead of his opponents, the boats continuing bow for bow for a short distance. As they reached the Island, Campbell put on a most beautiful and determined “spirit” and despite the efforts of his opponents, he shot ahead, and was a length in front, in less time than we take to note the fact. He continued to improve his distance, and although Brown, who was second, and Carroll, made energetic attempts to regain their lost ground, their efforts were unsuccessful. Carroll, in rounding the above point, pulled somewhat out of his course, and lost way; but by this time it was evident to all that the race was decided. The men continued to pull with spirit, but Campbell gradually widened his distance between Brown, as did the latter between Carroll, and when the winning-post was reached, Campbell was at least 150 yards ahead of Brown, the same distance being between the latter and Carroll. The race was pulled in 23 minutes and 40 seconds. Thus ended a contest in favour of a Scotchman over opponents of the sister countries, which, as we have already said, has excited more interest in aquatic circles in this quarter than any event of a similar kind. Campbell belongs to Alexandria, a village situated little more than a mile from the scene of the contest, and the enthusiasm manifested in the district was general. The winning boat was built in the boat-building establishment of Mr J. B. McNeill, Glasgow.
Six months later, the prize money had risen to £200, and this is how Bell's Life reported this famous piece of action in its edition of 25 July 1858:
THE GREAT SKIFF RACE BETWEEN HARRY CLASPER AND ROBERT CAMPBELL FOR £200 AND THE CHAMPIONSHIP OF SCOTLAND
This great event in the aquatic world came off on Thursday last, under the most favourable auspices. The attendance of spectators was very large, for the interest taken in the match arose from various causes. The Championship of Scotland being the stake at issue, the national spirit was called into play, and a feeling of anxiety prevailed lest, perhaps, the best sculler that Scotland had ever produced should have to succumb to the science of a stranger. With that feeling of anxiety, however, was mingled a feeling of confidence and, although Clasper had a slight call in the betting wherever layers were to be found, there were takers also. It was thought - and there was good reason for the thought - that, great as was the fame of the aquatic hero of Newcastle, the youth, strength, and scientific acquirements of the present champion of Scotland should enable him to pull through with even more formidable antagonist; but the result proved that those who held these expectations had been very much in error.
Before describing the race itself, we will give a brief description of the previous performances of the men, and on the old principle, seniores priores, we will commence with Harry Clasper. Clasper was born in the year 1810, so that he is at present 48 years of age, and his name has been known in aquatic circles for a period of 23years. He has rowed upon almost every river between the Thames and the Clyde, where aquatic entertainments are in anyway encouraged, and has contested, with varied success, against the ablest rowers of the South, both as a sculler and also in the celebrated four-oar, manned by the brothers known in the world as the "Clasper Crew." It was Clasper who first introduced the principle of out-riggers to boats intended for racing purposes, and the old fashioned wager wherry is a thing now almost unknown.
Robert Campbell is some 15 years younger than his veteran antagonist, and his career, though short, has been a brilliant one. He is now in his 34th year, and his rowing weight is 10st. 10lb. His first public appearance in the aquatic world was in 1857, on the Clyde, when he defeated John Carrol easily, the stakes being £10 a side. In the same year at the Glasgow Regatta, he defeated John Carrol and Wm. Taylor, of Newcastle; and last autumn he rowed for the championship of Scotland against John Carrol and Wm. Brown. The match took place on Loch Lomond, the stakes being £50 a side, and was won easily and in good style by Campbell. On that occasion, Brown was trained by Harry Clasper, and Campbell by John Mackinney, of London. In February 1858, W. Brown again contended for £50 a side, from Dumbarton to Howling, and Campbell again was successful, Brown being then trained by Clasper, and Campbell by Mackinney. From that match arose another between the two trainers. Clasper and Mackinney themselves, which was to have come off on the same course, but it came to no-thing, Mackinney being compelled by illness, it was alleged, to pay forfeit.
The rising fame of Campbell having attracted the attention of Clasper, the veteran challenged him to row a race for £100 a side and the championship of Scotland, and hence the match which we this day have to record Campbell, who has been for the last three weeks at Loch Lomond, taking his breathings under the superintendence of George Drewitt of Chelsea, rowed in boat built by Mr J. B. McNeil, her length being 33 feet and weight about 29lb. not including the weight of the rowlocks. Clasper arrived in Glasgow on Wednesday week, having, as we understand, not gone through any lengthened course of training, and many of his friends expressed some anxiety lest his four-oared race with the Taylors would have interfered in some respect with his sculling. He rowed in a boat of his own construction which is said by his friends to be one of the best he ever built. The dimensions are-length 33 feet, breadth 10 inches, height of steer-post 2 inches, and weight 33lb.
In consequence of the necessity of catching the tide at the ebb, the start was fixed at ten o'clock, and the weather being very fine for some time before that hour, the river presented a very animated appearance. The Petrel and Emperor, and three other steamers had brought down a considerable number of spectators from Glasgow; and a crowd of small boats of all descriptions, their oars glittering in the sunlight, were seen skimming over the surface of the Clyde. As the hour for the start drew nigh, speculation was at its height; the friends of Campbell, probably in consequence of a rumour that the veteran could not stay the distance, adventuring their money more freely on their favourite. As the men came slowly to the post their condition and form were closely scanned. The condition in which Clasper appeared at the starting point reflects great credit on his trainer; and Campbell, too, looked well and confident.
At about a quarter-past ten an admirable start was effected, both men darting off with lightning velocity, but in a few strokes the nose of Clasper's boat began to show in front, and the veteran shortly after drove his boat clear, and continued to increase his lead until they had pulled about 400 yards, where the Craignish Castle, though hailed by the umpires and referee and ordered to back her engines, continued most reprehensibly to follow so close in the wake of Clasper's skiff that the surge from the paddle-wheels extended to him and for a time retarded his progress. At this period Campbell came up, and for a second or two the skiffs were close together. When Clasper got into smoother water he again shot ahead and regained his former position, improving his lead at every stroke, and rowing well within himself, came in a victor by about 200 yards, thus adding another to his many victories. He pulled on the north and Campbell on the south side of the course. The winning post was a boat bearing the Union Jack, placed about half a mile below Bowling Pier - a distance from the starting point of about four miles. All around, it was a swarm of small boats, numbering, we should suppose, nearly 200, filled with people, who sent up a most enthusiastic burst of cheering, which was also swelled by those on board the steamboats, as Clasper came triumphantly past the winning post, with Campbell, as nearly as we could calculate, between 200 and 300 yards behind. Thus was decided what, by a numerous class, will be reckoned an event of national importance. After the race the rowers were taken on board, and the steamers with their freights returned to Glasgow. The stakes shall be forwarded to Clasper on Tuesday next.
As a final footnote, the Campbell family had quite a sporting tradition: Robert's younger brother, Colquhoun was also a successful oarsman in the late 1860s; and one of Robert's sons was John Campbell, who played football for South Western and was capped once by Scotland in 1880. Another important character who appears in these stories is James Banks McNeil, Glasgow boatbuilder and hirer, who founded the Glasgow Regatta.
SKIFF MATCH FOR THE CHAMPIONSHIP OF SCOTLAND AND £150
This match, which came off yesterday on Lochlomond, has excited more interest amongst the lovers of aquatics than, perhaps, any former event of a similar kind. Glasgow has for a number of years past taken the lead in the exhilarating and healthful exercise of boating; and apart altogether from anxiety to obtain a notoriety as first-class pullers or successful competitors for money prizes, competitions of a character similar to a the one we are about to notice have enervated the youth, we may say, of the city to perfect themselves not only in the propelling of boats but in that invaluable accomplishment, swimming. This latter art, it will be admitted by all, is an accomplishment of which everyone should be in possession, and the fact that racing boats have been brought to that degree of proficiency for swiftness, if not of peril, in waters other than the Clyde (or similar rivers) stimulates the pullers to perfect themselves In, the useful art of swimming. Thus far, we think, the enjoyment of aquatics on the Clyde has been beneficial.
We now come to the match to which reference has been made. The men - William Brown, John Carroll, and Robert Campbell, are more or less known to fame by the lovers of aquatics. Brown, one of the celebrated "Nancy" crew, who were so eminently successful in the Clyde in years gone by, beat McNeill in two different skiff matches. However pretty, and however much admired the pulling of McNeill was, he failed while competing with his more powerful opponent. The next competitor in course is Carroll, one of the champion of the world four-oared crew, the race for which took place in England several years ago. Carroll is a puller of no mean ability, but, unfortunately for himself, after gaining “golden opinions” in this quarter (for he originally hailed from Manchester) he did not keep up the perfect condition necessary for a competitor in aquatics, and was beaten during the present year by young Clasper of Newcastle, and Campbell of Glasgow. Campbell was one of the celebrated Duffy's crew, which were very successful. After being several years in McNeill's establishment, he entered the lists against Carroll, whom, as we have remarked, he vanquished.
Brown was trained by Robert Chambers, of Newcastle; Carroll, by Harry Clasper of Newcastle; and Campbell by John McKinney, of Richmond. Betting: Even on Brown against the field; even on Carroll; and 6 to 4 against Campbell. The result of the race had the effect of causing several hundred pounds to change hands - the “knowing ones” betting heavy in favour of Brown.
A special steamer was hired for the occasion, on board of were the Umpires, Messrs. Clasper, Chalmers, and McNeill, and the Referee, Captain Brown of the Queen Victoria Lochlomond Steamer, and a large concourse of gentlemen interested in the contest.
All the preliminaries having been arranged, and after two false starts, the boats went off in beautiful style, Brown and Carroll, who were on either side of Campbell, taking a slight lead. On nearing Inch Murran, Campbell improved his speed, and got ahead of his opponents, the boats continuing bow for bow for a short distance. As they reached the Island, Campbell put on a most beautiful and determined “spirit” and despite the efforts of his opponents, he shot ahead, and was a length in front, in less time than we take to note the fact. He continued to improve his distance, and although Brown, who was second, and Carroll, made energetic attempts to regain their lost ground, their efforts were unsuccessful. Carroll, in rounding the above point, pulled somewhat out of his course, and lost way; but by this time it was evident to all that the race was decided. The men continued to pull with spirit, but Campbell gradually widened his distance between Brown, as did the latter between Carroll, and when the winning-post was reached, Campbell was at least 150 yards ahead of Brown, the same distance being between the latter and Carroll. The race was pulled in 23 minutes and 40 seconds. Thus ended a contest in favour of a Scotchman over opponents of the sister countries, which, as we have already said, has excited more interest in aquatic circles in this quarter than any event of a similar kind. Campbell belongs to Alexandria, a village situated little more than a mile from the scene of the contest, and the enthusiasm manifested in the district was general. The winning boat was built in the boat-building establishment of Mr J. B. McNeill, Glasgow.
Six months later, the prize money had risen to £200, and this is how Bell's Life reported this famous piece of action in its edition of 25 July 1858:
THE GREAT SKIFF RACE BETWEEN HARRY CLASPER AND ROBERT CAMPBELL FOR £200 AND THE CHAMPIONSHIP OF SCOTLAND
This great event in the aquatic world came off on Thursday last, under the most favourable auspices. The attendance of spectators was very large, for the interest taken in the match arose from various causes. The Championship of Scotland being the stake at issue, the national spirit was called into play, and a feeling of anxiety prevailed lest, perhaps, the best sculler that Scotland had ever produced should have to succumb to the science of a stranger. With that feeling of anxiety, however, was mingled a feeling of confidence and, although Clasper had a slight call in the betting wherever layers were to be found, there were takers also. It was thought - and there was good reason for the thought - that, great as was the fame of the aquatic hero of Newcastle, the youth, strength, and scientific acquirements of the present champion of Scotland should enable him to pull through with even more formidable antagonist; but the result proved that those who held these expectations had been very much in error.
Before describing the race itself, we will give a brief description of the previous performances of the men, and on the old principle, seniores priores, we will commence with Harry Clasper. Clasper was born in the year 1810, so that he is at present 48 years of age, and his name has been known in aquatic circles for a period of 23years. He has rowed upon almost every river between the Thames and the Clyde, where aquatic entertainments are in anyway encouraged, and has contested, with varied success, against the ablest rowers of the South, both as a sculler and also in the celebrated four-oar, manned by the brothers known in the world as the "Clasper Crew." It was Clasper who first introduced the principle of out-riggers to boats intended for racing purposes, and the old fashioned wager wherry is a thing now almost unknown.
Robert Campbell is some 15 years younger than his veteran antagonist, and his career, though short, has been a brilliant one. He is now in his 34th year, and his rowing weight is 10st. 10lb. His first public appearance in the aquatic world was in 1857, on the Clyde, when he defeated John Carrol easily, the stakes being £10 a side. In the same year at the Glasgow Regatta, he defeated John Carrol and Wm. Taylor, of Newcastle; and last autumn he rowed for the championship of Scotland against John Carrol and Wm. Brown. The match took place on Loch Lomond, the stakes being £50 a side, and was won easily and in good style by Campbell. On that occasion, Brown was trained by Harry Clasper, and Campbell by John Mackinney, of London. In February 1858, W. Brown again contended for £50 a side, from Dumbarton to Howling, and Campbell again was successful, Brown being then trained by Clasper, and Campbell by Mackinney. From that match arose another between the two trainers. Clasper and Mackinney themselves, which was to have come off on the same course, but it came to no-thing, Mackinney being compelled by illness, it was alleged, to pay forfeit.
The rising fame of Campbell having attracted the attention of Clasper, the veteran challenged him to row a race for £100 a side and the championship of Scotland, and hence the match which we this day have to record Campbell, who has been for the last three weeks at Loch Lomond, taking his breathings under the superintendence of George Drewitt of Chelsea, rowed in boat built by Mr J. B. McNeil, her length being 33 feet and weight about 29lb. not including the weight of the rowlocks. Clasper arrived in Glasgow on Wednesday week, having, as we understand, not gone through any lengthened course of training, and many of his friends expressed some anxiety lest his four-oared race with the Taylors would have interfered in some respect with his sculling. He rowed in a boat of his own construction which is said by his friends to be one of the best he ever built. The dimensions are-length 33 feet, breadth 10 inches, height of steer-post 2 inches, and weight 33lb.
In consequence of the necessity of catching the tide at the ebb, the start was fixed at ten o'clock, and the weather being very fine for some time before that hour, the river presented a very animated appearance. The Petrel and Emperor, and three other steamers had brought down a considerable number of spectators from Glasgow; and a crowd of small boats of all descriptions, their oars glittering in the sunlight, were seen skimming over the surface of the Clyde. As the hour for the start drew nigh, speculation was at its height; the friends of Campbell, probably in consequence of a rumour that the veteran could not stay the distance, adventuring their money more freely on their favourite. As the men came slowly to the post their condition and form were closely scanned. The condition in which Clasper appeared at the starting point reflects great credit on his trainer; and Campbell, too, looked well and confident.
At about a quarter-past ten an admirable start was effected, both men darting off with lightning velocity, but in a few strokes the nose of Clasper's boat began to show in front, and the veteran shortly after drove his boat clear, and continued to increase his lead until they had pulled about 400 yards, where the Craignish Castle, though hailed by the umpires and referee and ordered to back her engines, continued most reprehensibly to follow so close in the wake of Clasper's skiff that the surge from the paddle-wheels extended to him and for a time retarded his progress. At this period Campbell came up, and for a second or two the skiffs were close together. When Clasper got into smoother water he again shot ahead and regained his former position, improving his lead at every stroke, and rowing well within himself, came in a victor by about 200 yards, thus adding another to his many victories. He pulled on the north and Campbell on the south side of the course. The winning post was a boat bearing the Union Jack, placed about half a mile below Bowling Pier - a distance from the starting point of about four miles. All around, it was a swarm of small boats, numbering, we should suppose, nearly 200, filled with people, who sent up a most enthusiastic burst of cheering, which was also swelled by those on board the steamboats, as Clasper came triumphantly past the winning post, with Campbell, as nearly as we could calculate, between 200 and 300 yards behind. Thus was decided what, by a numerous class, will be reckoned an event of national importance. After the race the rowers were taken on board, and the steamers with their freights returned to Glasgow. The stakes shall be forwarded to Clasper on Tuesday next.
As a final footnote, the Campbell family had quite a sporting tradition: Robert's younger brother, Colquhoun was also a successful oarsman in the late 1860s; and one of Robert's sons was John Campbell, who played football for South Western and was capped once by Scotland in 1880. Another important character who appears in these stories is James Banks McNeil, Glasgow boatbuilder and hirer, who founded the Glasgow Regatta.
- Published on
An important piece of Scottish sporting history is coming up for auction soon. This superb silver rowing trophy was awarded at the first Glasgow Regatta in 1829, held on the River Clyde. It was won by a boat called The Glasgow, belonging to James Hunter, which took part in the race of 'Four Oard Gigs pulled by Gentlemen'. The trophy apparently turned up when a couple were clearing the house of an elderly uncle who had died, and it has been consigned to McTear's in Glasgow for their fine silver sale on 25 June. No estimate price available yet, but it is the kind of thing that I hope our national museum will pull out all the stops to bid for. See www.mctears.co.uk for further details.
The City of Glasgow Regatta is one of the oldest annual sporting events in the country, and is now at about the 185th edition. I am no expert on rowing, in fact it seems to have little recorded history in Scotland, but in the 19th century this event was a major attraction in the city and drew huge crowds to the banks of the Clyde. 1829 was, of course, also the year the Oxford v Cambridge boat race started, which gives some idea of the Glasgow Regatta's antiquity and importance.
Footnote: the trophy sold for £1,000 at McTears. See this link for a full description.
The City of Glasgow Regatta is one of the oldest annual sporting events in the country, and is now at about the 185th edition. I am no expert on rowing, in fact it seems to have little recorded history in Scotland, but in the 19th century this event was a major attraction in the city and drew huge crowds to the banks of the Clyde. 1829 was, of course, also the year the Oxford v Cambridge boat race started, which gives some idea of the Glasgow Regatta's antiquity and importance.
Footnote: the trophy sold for £1,000 at McTears. See this link for a full description.
The trophy may relate to this undated handbill in the Glasgow University archives. The first item is a rowing match for four-oared gigs, the prize being a silver bowl presented by John May Esq.
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Author
All blog posts, unless stated, are written by Andy Mitchell.