In 1375 the Surveyors of Malahide harbour were instructed to prevent the shipment of unlicensed corn through its port. Breach of this penalty meant forfeiture of horse, baggage and arms. Edward IV in 1445 appointed the Lord of Malahide High Admiral of the Port and Seas Adjoining. On 8 March 1476 Thomas Talbot was granted all the customs of goods passing through the port. Talbot and his heirs were appointed perpetual Admirals of Malahide and he was also given the authority to hold admiralty courts and to appoint officers, searchers and water bailiffs. This cut across the jurisdiction of Dublin Corporation , which claimed Admiralty rights on the coastline from Balbriggan to Arklow. Joe Byrne makes reference in his recent book on John Talbot ("War and Peace - The Survival of the Talbots of Malahide" Irish Academic Press) to a Malahide fisherman called Richard Mastoke being brought before the court of Exchequer in 1531 for having illegally exported 40 bushels of corn and malt in his own vessel.

By the 1850’s the main business was fishing but also included the export of grain, meal and flour and the import of coal – approximately 20,000 tons annually. (Thoms Directory). The construction of the railway arches in 1843/4 put an end to the coal trading to Newport at the top right of the Broadmeadows near Lissenhall which at one stage had its own harbourmaster.

The fishing was of two distinct types. There were very extensive oyster beds in the vicinity of the railway arches where large numbers of green finned oysters were harvested annually, the low level of the water at low tide making this a relatively easy task. Along with all the fishing rights in the Estuary the oyster fishery was the property of the Manor of Malahide and income from the letting was an important source of revenue. Again Joe Byrne refers to an indenture of 1835 wherein Richard Talbot lets to Henry Murphy at al, the oyster bed for a yearly rent of £110 and 5,000 marketable oysters to be delivered to the lessor every year. Again the building of the railway seems to have destroyed this fishery – there were no environmental impact studies in those days.

There are port records in Chester and Bristol for the 15th century mentioning Malahide fishermen landing herring and whitefish and taking cargoes of salt home for fish preservation. Herring continued to be important to Malahide but the catches declined drastically in the last century. However, they were never on the scale of Howth where over 400 boats landed an incredible 58m herring in 1864. By 1878 no fewer than 985 boats from up and down the coast had congregated in Howth for the herring season but though the fleet had doubled the catch was down to 34m herring landed. During the following 15 to 20 years the fishing declined rapidly and drastically due both to the fickleness of the herring and over fishing.

Malahide was better known for its cod fishery. Indeed, the famous trademark of Scotts Emulsion and Cod liver Oil showing a fisherman with a large cod slung over his back is reputed to have been based on a Malahide cod fisherman. The local fleet of yawls ranged up and down the Irish Sea using a method known as longlining. A very long line with up to 1,000 hooks baited with whelks was towed slowly behind the boat. Some yawls had holds which allowed the sea-water to swish through thus keeping the catch fresh. Noel Flanagan has written about the Malahide fishermen and their trade in his book "Malahide Past and Present" (out of print but available in Malahide Library). The yawl Anne of Malahide and its tragic loss off the bar in 1828 is well documented. See the verses at the bootom of this page. I believe this boat was owned by forebears of Michael Gaffney of The Hill one of whom was lost in the incident at the age of 33 and his engraved tombstone is to be seen in the nave of Malahide Abbey beside the Castle.
Return to top of page

Roger Greene, July 2000

"A maritime town and parish in Coolock barony; population 596 in 105 homes. On the fourth station from Dublin of the Drogheda Railway.

In 1174 the Manor and Castle of Malahide was granted to Richard Talbot, confirmed by King John and extended by Edward IV in 1445 by appointing the Lord of Malahide High Admiral of the Port and Seas adjoining.

The town contains few houses but many handsome cottages which chiefly are let in summer for sea bathing. It has a Constabulary Police and a Coast-guard Station.

An Act was obtained in 1788 by Mr. M’Intyre at his own expense for a canal to extend to Swords and Fieldstown but it failed as did the same mans cotton manufacture which had been granted £2,000 from the Irish Parliament.

The only trade now carried on is the import of coal, about 20,000 tons annually, and the export of grain, meal and flour. Off the coast there are profitable beds of oysters, the property of the Lord of the Manor, leased to Messrs. Gaffney, Malahide from which considerable quantities are drawn and are much esteemed for their flavour. The inlet of Malahide is 4 miles North from Howth and extends 4 miles inland. It is dry at low water, but at high tide vessels drawing 10 and 11 feet may enter and lie afloat in the creek. Across the estuary, about 1 and ¼ miles in length, the Drogheda Railway is carried by an embankment at an elevation of 8 feet in ordinary Spring tides; in the centre of the embankment the line passes over a wooden viaduct of 11 arches or spans, 50 feet wide through which the tide flows as far as Lissen Hall bridge, a distance of 2 and ½ miles.

By 1870 the population had risen to 1,341 and the town comprised an area of 1,126 acres. The Castle was described in that year as a large square building , flanked by lofty circular towers, and standing on a high limestone rock, and commanding a fine view of the town and bay. The demesne was adorned with groups of stately trees, and the grounds and gardens beautifully laid out and open daily to the visitors. The only public buildings were the Church, a neat edifice of the later English style, and a handsome Roman Catholic Chapel."
Return to top of page

From Thom’s Directories,
Gilbert Library, Pearse St., Dublin 2

"This place situated about five miles to the northward of Dublin Bay, was the scene of a very spirited affair on Tuesday the 3rd of August. It was got up under the patronage of Lord Talbot de Malahide, and through the exertions of his agent, F. W. Cusack, Esq., assisted ably by W. Butler, Esq., honorary secretary.

The proceedings commenced with a match between the following yachts for a purse of fifteen sovereigns.

Dove, 12 tons, T. D. Keogh, Esq., Gazelle, 4 tons, J. Johnston, Esq., Vidette, 5 tons, R. W. Hodgans, Esq., Temeraire, 4 tons, E. Bolton, Esq., Virago, 10 tons, Capt. J. C. Byrne, and Bijou, 10 tons, R. D. Kane Esq.

The Electric, P. Thompson, Esq., entered, but she did not arrive in time.

An excellent start was effected at 3h. 2m., by all except the Virago, who was very badly berthed, being fully a quarter of a mile astern of the position taken up by her competitors. Gazelle went away with lead, but was soon overhauled and passed by Dove, Vidette, and Bijou, and the run out to the first flag-boat was exceedingly closely contested; the Virago pulled up her leeway wonderfully, overhauled and passed the Gazelle and Temeraire, and went into fourth place. There was a nice whole canvas breeze at W.N.W., veering occasionally in the showers to S.W., but north of west was the prevailing wind. Dove, Bijou, and Vidette rounded the Lambay flag-boat together, the Gazelle and Temeraire a few minutes after. The Bijou then got clear of her companions, the Dove and Vidette, which immediately struck their large gaff-topsails, the Vidette being hampered with hers, during which the Virago passed her. Bijou carried on until everything cracked again, making the running whilst her antagonists were shifting topsails; and when she had secured a good lead she down with her own, and prepared for a regular dusting match. Dove, in order to regain lost ground, set a small top-sail, but it rather injured her than otherwise, as it did not appear to stand well in a wind, so that she speedily sent it down again. In the meantime the Vidette, having struck her topmast and made all snug, went to work with a will, and, racing past the Virago, took third place. Bijou was the first to tack close by the Portrane shore, followed by the Dove, Vidette, Virago, Gazelle, and Temeraire. These positions were relatively maintained until nearing the bar flag-boat, on the stretch across the bay, the Dove overhauled the Bijou considerably. In the turn up the Channel the Bijou worked beautifully; the Dove, drawing much more water, could not stand in so close to the banks on either side, and consequently her ready little rival obtained an advantage. Vidette began to make play now in the short tacks, and also the Virago, but the latter vessel had scarcely weathered the bar boat, when she touched the tail of the Centre Bank and went aground. Meantime the Bijou was turning up tack for tack; she was winning fast. Dove and Vidette altho' well handled could not again reach their leader. their leader. The race finished thus - Bijou 4h. 58m., Dove 5h. 2m. and Vidette 5h. 3m.
Virago, Gazelle, and Temeraire not timed. The former got afloat again without injury.

Several rowing matches took place and the Dublin University Club crew added to their laurels. A very beautiful display of fireworks closed a really happy day.

It was intended to continue the sports the following day but it turned out very wet and disagreeable."
Return to top of page

Yachting
The Freman's Journal, 15th August, 1865

"The schooner Lalla Rockh, J. Cannon, Royal St. George Yacht Club, left Kingstown Harbour yesterday for Guernsey, Jersey, and France. The schooner Mayflower, H. Hamilton, Royal St. George Yacht Club, has arrived from Balbriggan, and will probably leave for dock to-day. The cutter Eclair, J. Townsend, Royal Irish Yacht Club, sailed for Wicklow and New Ross. The schooner Isadora, T. Pim, Royal Irish Yacht Club, has left for winter quarters."

Malahide Regatta
The Freeman's Journal, 15th August, 1865

"The cutters Torment, Magnet, Virago, Exile, Mermaid, Kelpie, Flirt, Sneezer, Domis and some other Lilliputian craft were making preparations yesterday to proceed to this regatta to-day."

Malahide Regatta 1865

From "The Freeman’s Journal", 16th August, 1865.

Researched by Roger Greene

"The aquatic sports yesterday at this delightful and fashionable watering place were most successful, and contributed much to the enjoyment of thousands who had come down from town by train and by all kinds of conveyance from the surrounding country to spend the day at the seaside. In consequence of its being a holiday the agricultural interest was strongly expressed. The weather was most unexpectedly fine and a brisk breeze from the westward tempered the heat of the brilliant August sun. From an early hour those astute philosophers who are to be observed in their true element at fairs or races began to arrive with their wheels of fortune, Aunt Sally, nine pins and mobile shooting galleries drawn by ascetic looking donkeys and taking up position for the purpose of enabling marksmen to fire pieces of stick at a target for prizes consisting of rotten nuts. In the motley gallery was to be seen a harper playing all kinds of original music and singing as if he was practising for the coming oyster season with a vehemence and earnestness worthy of a better cause. In the musical department were also to be perceived troubadours, dressed in the most fantastic colours, bearing guitars and banjos, by which they intimidated a number of persons to obtain money, acrobats and tumblers spreading out pieces of carpets after the manner of Eastern dervishes, twisted and turned themselves into all kinds of shapes, much to the delight of the pastoral section of the community. On "the green" rows of cars were drawn up, on which were offered for sale fossil cakes. Apples of stomachic discord, real Cognac brandy, at one and two pence per flask, labels and all, paraffin whiskey and delicate bottled porter; but the great attraction in this section of the scene was a long pole , on the top of which was hoisted a leg of mutton to be won by the adventurous climber that would succeed in reaching it. Many were the aspirants for the much coveted prize, and many were the failures of those who had toiled hard up the well greased pole until near the mutton,, but who had to descend ignominiously to the earth exhausted by their efforts. Loud, long, and hearty was the laughter which the discomfiture of the adventurous spirits caused amongst the gazing crowd, and from time to time it became strikingly apparent that the inexpressibles of some of the climbers should be subjected to an extensive mending process consequent on their ambitious efforts to lower the standard of meat in the market. It was evident that the mutton though not long killed was "too high", and all idea of reaching it had to be abandoned. The estuary and bay presented a most gay and animated appearance. As the time approached for the first race to start, large numbers of craft were to be seen sailing about in the brisk sunny breeze, and Mr. Henry Jameson’s fine yacht, (the flag ship of the day), the vessels in harbour, and the flagstaffs in front of the Coast Guard Station, and on the esplanade were gaily decorated with many coloured bunting. The Green, and the whole line of cliffs overhanging the strand, were crowded, and perhaps on no former occasion was there larger numbers assembled at Malahide. The band of the Constabulary, under the direction of Mr. Harry Hardy, were present, and performed in excellent style during the day. The following yachts started for

The First Race - Malahide Cup , value 15l. Open to all yachts not exceeding 15 tons; time race, three to start or no race:--Magnet, 12 tons, W. Conlan, white, blue ball,; Emu, 7 tons, C. Fitzgerald, green, white star; Virago, 101/2 tons, J. Eyre, white, red cross.

The contest was principally between the Virago and Magnet, and after an excellent race the vessels came in as follows:-
Virago - 4h 26m 29s
Magnet - 4h 29m 0s
Emu - 4h 44m 30s

The following little vessels were entered for

Second Race - a purse of ten sovs., to be sailed by yachts not exceeding five tons. A time race; one minute time. First beat, 7l; second beat, 3l -- Omega, 5 tons, W. Cooper, Confederate ensign; Colleen, 5 tons, N. Brady, white, green cross; Geraldine, 2 tons, Captain Filgate, white, red cross; Widgeon, 2 tons, F. Rohu, blue, white cross; Antelope, 3 tons, W. Roper; Truant, 4 tons, S. W. Nugent, Blue Peter; Gipsy, 31/2 tons, G. James, white and red; Lively, 4 tons, R. Marquis, red; Torment, 5 tons, J. H. Todhunter, Union Jack; Grann-weal, 2 tons, R. L. Jones, red, white and blue.

The start was well effected, and the small craft looked very pretty as they stood down the channel before the wind. The beat up against the wind displayed the sailing properties of the Torment to the best advantage. The race concluded as follows:--
Torment : 4h 27m 50s
Truant : 4h 30m 50s
Colleen : 4h 43m 30s
Lively : 4h 43m 35s
Grann-weal : 4h 54m 45s

The next race was for pair-oared boats, to be pulled and steered by fishermen or persons approved of by the committee -- First boat, 3l; second boat 1l.
Fidget, T. Jones, white, blue cross; Wave, R. Twigg, red, white, and blue; Emma, J. Reilly, white; St. Michael, Peter Russell, red.
After a severe contest the Emma came in first, Fidget second and St. Michael third.
The Fourth Race -- As sailing Match, open to all Coastguard boats. First boat, 5I; second boat, 2l.
Station --Skerries, Rush, Lambay, Portrane, Malahide, Baldoyle -- White, red letter of boat’s station.

Away went the lot under lugs, jiggers and jibs; and after a very pretty race they came in as follows:--
Lambay - 4h 45m 20s
Skerries - 4h 45m 20s
The Baldoyle boat came in third but was not timed.

In a punt race the No Time won, and the Torment came in second.
A four-oared fisherman’s race next came off -- the No Go first, Happy-go-Lucky second, Mary Jane third, and St. Michael fourth.
A running match between coastguard boats ended as follows:-- Skerries station boat first, the Rush boat second and Malahide boat third.

The next race could scarcely be called a match. It was for two oared gigs, rowed by gentlemen. The following started:--
Leprecaun, W.Elliot, T.Burrows, R.L.Jones, blue; Gleam, C.H.Dillon, J.F.Coulson, W.S.Cruise, white; Like a Bird, U.R.C.T.Ryan, A.Bushe, E.Dillon, white and blue.
The Like a Bird had it all her own way and won at a canter.

A number of other races , set down in the fullest of programmes, ensued; and the sports of the day ended with a grand display of fireworks, given by Mr. Lawrence of Grafton street. The last trains came up to town packed full and we are happy to say that the whole proceedings passed of in the most orderly manner and without the slightest accident. The arrangements of Captain Inglefield, R.N.; Captain Douglas, Mr. J.H.Byrne, and the other gentlemen on the committee gave general satisfaction."
Return to top of page

Malahide Regatta, 5th July, 1870
As reported in The Irish Sportsman

"The weather, which is the first and last consideration in such cases, being propitious, the Annual Malahide Regatta came off most successfully on Tuesday. The special trains brought numerous and motley crowds from the city and the scene presented on the Green and the shore was most picturesque. The usual habitués of the racecourse were to be seen plying the various trades which human ingenuity devises for entrapping the unwary into the calculation of odds and chances.
The promoters of this regatta may safely congratulate themselves on the success of the meeting, which, while it makes small pretentions to importance as a yachting event is attended with very considerable interest and amusement.
The attendance of the University Boat Club crew fresh from Henley at once placed speculation at rest with reference to the four oared gig race which they won with ease.
Though announced for 4 o'clock this race was not started until 5 o'clock. If punctuality be the politeness of Princes it ought to be the business of race committees. It is most tiresome to be kept waiting, field-glass in hand.
In the first race for yachts under 15 tons, prize 15 sovereigns, only the Queen, W.R. Johnstone, Esq., R.C.Y.C., 15 tons and the Ripple, G. Murney, Esq., and C. Coddington, crew, R.U.Y.C., 12 tons started. The Queen led all the way, and, allowing her rival 45 seconds per ton (2 mins. 15 secs.) won easily.
The second sailing match was for a prize of 10 sovereigns open to all yachts not exceeding 7 tons. Six started ranging from 3 tons but most of 6 tons. The leading boat grounded on a sandbar but got off to finish second.
There were several gig races and the day was finished off with fireworks that evening by Mr. Lawrence of Grafton St."

Hunt's Yachting Magazine of 1st. November, 1870 also reported the event.

"(Malahide Regatta) Came off on July 5th, the first match for the Malahide cup, 15 sovs., open to all yachts nor exceeding 15 tons. Time allowance 45s. Per ton. The Amba, Magnet, Queen Mab, Mora, Ripple, 12 tons, G. Murney, Esq., and Queen, 15 tons, W.R.Johnston, Esq., entered but only the two latter started. There was nice breeze from the south-west and the Queen set a jib-headed topsail, the Ripple had her mainsail reefed with topsail housed. When the gun fired both got well away together on the starboard tack, close hauled, but the Queen rounded the first mark about 20s. In advance. The Ripple now sent up her topmast and set a square-header for the run to the flag-boat off Lambay, but not able to catch the Queen, who hauled round it a couple of minutes before her. Both then housed topmasts and prepared for a dead muzzler to the Lady Hobart Buoy. The Queen was at this mark six minutes in advance of the Ripple, and on the run back to the flag-boat on the bar she set balloon foresail and rounded it still further a-head. In the beat up the Channel for the finish at the flag-vessel the Queen still continued to polish off her antagonist, winning by 7m. 30s. After the time allowance.
The next match open to all yachts not exceeding 7 tons, time allowance, 1m. Per ton. The yachts that started were the Myrrha, schooner, A. Falkner, Esq., Nikomi, 6 tons, E.H.Smith, Esq., Cynet, 3 tons, W.Doyle,Esq., Peri, 5 tons, J.E Rogers, Esq., Torment, 5 tons, J. Todhunter, Esq., Ino, 6 tons, R.E.Lloyd, Esq. They got well away together , the Myrrha leading round the Lady Hobart flag-boat, followed by the Nikomi and Peri. But in the beat back and turn up the Gut, the Peri got in front, and they passed the flag-ship thus: Peri, Myrrha, Nikomi, Torment, Cynet and Ino. On the run out the Myrrha set her fore-topsail, and sailed ahead of the Peri out to the Lady Hobart buoy, which she rounded 3m. In advance, and retained her lead in the journey back, until she went aground on the northern bank of the Gut, where she stuck for upwards of five minutes, but got off in sufficient time to take second place at the conclusion of the match, when the time was Peri 2h. 21m. 30s., Myrrha 2h. 26m. Several boat races and four-oared gig matches followed."

Meanwhile the Freeman' Journal of 5th July gave a very detailed description of Mr. Gordon Bennett's great yacht DAUNTLESS which was lying in Cork Harbour along with the British Americas Cup contender CAMBRIA. The paper also published telegrams datelined Cork, Monday Evening and Kinsale, Monday Night reporting on the arrival of these yachts at the Daunt Rock on Monday afternoon and their pre-start and immediate post- start manoeuvres at the commencement of 'The Great Trans-Atlantic Yacht Race'.

Kingstown Two-day Regatta.

"Morality and sobriety were benefited by the conspicuous absence of booths for the sale of what ought to be called 'dilirum tremens' whiskey, and order and propriety were the happy result."
Entrants for the main race for a cup presented by Her Majesty:-
Fiona Cutter 78 tons; Mosquito Cutter 60 tons; Oimara Cutter 159 tons; Rose of Devon Cutter 137 tons; Gwendolin Schooner 179 tons Phryne Cutter 55 tons; Egeeria Schooner 152 tons Emit Yawl 42 tons; Vindex Cutter 45 tons Maunetta Cutter 50 tons
Race two was for yachts of 40 tons and under. Race three was for yachts of 20 tons and under and 'Ripple' was a contender.

The Freeman's Journal reported on July 6th that "The Queen, cutter, 15 tons, W.R. Johnston, Esq., R.C.Y.C., entered the harbour at seven o'clock last evening, flying her winning flag, having won the prize of 15 sovereigns at Malahide. As the celebrated little cutter passed the various craft she was loudly cheered by their crews."

August, 1870.

"The tea clippers ERC King and DIOMED left Hango on 4th June in the race from China with the new spring teas. They raced via the Suez Canal and the former arrived in London on the 10th August, one day ahead of its rival."
Return to top of page

Malahide Regatta, 9th August, 1871.
The Freeman's Journal, 10 August, 1871.

"The annual regatta at Malahide which took place yesterday was favoured with delightful weather and thousands enjoyed at the seaside the brilliant sunshine, tempered by a stiff breeze from S.E. Indeed, the promoters of aquatic sports at Malahide are generally fortunate as far as the weather is concerned, but in the nautical department the Committees give very strong evidence of being more conversant with agricultural than marine affairs. But they possess the property of keeping out of the way, as they are not to be seen or met ashore or afloat by even the persons belonging to the vessels or boats entered save on very rare occasions during regatta days. There is always a good deal of flag flying and gun firing on these occasions, but a committee man, or a secretary, to give instructions or information, is very rarely to be seen. The charming watering place looked lovely yesterday, as the breeze came in with the flood tide from the bright purple sunny sea dotted over with the countless white sails of pleasure, fishing and trading craft. Lambay and Ireland's Eye, surrounded by the mists, which rose to the sun, looked exquisite, as did also the long lines of yellow sand on which the gentle ripples of the coming tide were breaking. The whole of the town of Malahide appeared in its most attractive aspect, and the green, as a matter of course, was the centre on which were pitched the most gypsey and ragged looking tens imaginable. The whole scene, if well painted, could be properly called "the sea coast on a breezy, sunny day." Large crowds came down by the ordinary and special trains, and the rustic folk were present in great force, the shepherdesses all wearing most warm colours in their holiday costumes. In the park and in the grounds attached to the hotel large numbers of ladies and gentlemen were present, and derived much enjoyment from the fine band of the 5th Fusilier Guards, which played well. The first event of the day afloat was the race for the Malahide Cup, value £15. The competitors were - the Petrel, 12, W. Jameson, Esq.; the Lady Alice, 8, J. M'Keon, Esq., and the Queen Mab, 9, G.Dury, Esq. The Lady Alice, of which little or nothing was known, "opened the eye" of her rivals, and took up the running on all points of sailing in light weather. She would have another story to tell if Mr. Johnson had not been becalmed off Bray Head on his way to the start. The race ended - Lady Alice, 4. 11.0; Queen Mab, 4.16.0; Petrel was not timed. The second sailing match was between the Malahide, Baldoyle, Skerries, and Rush Coast-guard boats. The Skerries boat came in first, the Rush second and the Malahide third. The race for small yachts was well contested by the Torment, the Myrrha, and the Cygnet. The Torment came in winning by long odds, the Myrrha second, and the Cygnet third. The rowing matches were numerous, but possessed little interest save to the fishermen and the Coast-guards who took part in them. One rowing match we must say was remarkable for its novelty. We allude to the four-oared gig race for a prize of 20 sovereigns. The Kingstown Royal Harbour Boat Club was entered to compete with the University Boat Club. The Kingstown crew, for reasons best known to themselves, or rather knowing the result beforehand, did not enter an appearance. To prevent disappointment the Drogheda Emerald Club crew kindly came forward and consented to row, provided the University Boat Club crew would not beat them too much. Matters were arranged, and the farce was rowed out admirably, in an apparently fearfully contested race which produced no end of excitement in the crowds. Of course the University Boat won by a nose, and the matter ended. We trust when next season comes, the Kingstown crews will have learned to boast less, work more and not enter for any race they are not prepared to run. They must be well beaten oftener then they have been before they can row a big gig match: and if they were afraid to go to the start, as we believe they were, they should not have entered and afterwards disappoint the public. Punt chases, duck hunts, and a brilliant display of fireworks brought the sports at Malahide to a close."
Return to top of page

Malahide Regatta, 1872
The Irish Sportsman, 27th July, 1872

."This highly popular aquatic event will take place on Monday next at the delightful watering place, Malahide. Should the weather be fine there is not the least doubt but that the regattta will be a great success. The entries are very numerous and the committee have arranged that the band of the 15th Regiment shall attend and that Mr. Kirby, Pyrotechnist, shall have a display of fireworks in the evening."

Regatta Report
The Irish Sportsman, 3rd August 1872

"The attendance was down on the previous year due to a clash with Howth athletic sports. The committees were criticised for the un-necessary clash thus affording many persons only one day out instead of two. Lord and Lady Talbot and their daughters were among those in the poorly supported reserve ground. The day was fine and the crowd on the banks was a very mixed assembly of all classes ranging from the 'upper ten' down to the thimble rigger, card sharper, ballad singer, match vendor and beggar who infest gatherings of the kind.
The race for the Malahide Cup, a time race open to all yachts not exceeding 15 tons was to start from the bar at 12 noon. Among the starters were the Petrel, a 12 ton sloop belonging to Mr. W.G.Jameson of the R.I.Y.C. and the 12 ton cutter Ripple of Mr. G. Murney of the R.U.Y.C. at Bangor.
There was a very fair start and the yachts looked pretty as with all their canvas spread to the wind, they careered like 'things of life' down the bay to the bar beyond. In the sail down, however, an unfortunate accident occurred which deprived the race of a great deal of its interest. The Ripple stood in too near the south bank and owing to the low state of the tide, grounded, could not be got off until the water rose, and was out of the race, a mishap that was very much regretted by the others. Proceedings in the early part of the day were very slow. The yachts left the bay and were no longer visible. There was little to do and nothing to look at until their return. There were only two really in the race, the Pastime and the Lady Alice. Their time passing the flag-boat was as follows:
Pastime .... 5 hrs 8 mins 30 secs
Lady Alice ... 5 26 15
In the next race, open to all yachts not exceeding 7 tons, first prize was the Visitors Cup and a Locket for second. There was a splendid contest between the Torment and the Dream, the former gallant little vessel holding her own throughout, though very closely pressed by the Dream in the early part of the race. The time was 2 hrs. 27 mins 30 secs.
The programme continued in the evening with a coast-guard boat race with the Malahide, Skerries, Balbriggan, Rush, Lambay and Baldoyle stations competing. Fishermans races followed including a race for four-oared boats.. The Irish Girl, C. Hatch, owner, won the first prize of £4, The Sylph, Tim Hogan took the second prize of £1 and Erin Go Breagh, Tom Jones was third. Neptune Rowing Club and Dublin University Rowing Clubs competed for the Ladies Cup but Pembroke failed to show. A four-oared race for gigs to be pulled by gentlemen was followed by a duck hunt and pig and pole entertainment which evoked roars of laughter. A band played in the Park and the event concluded with a fireworks display."

In relation to rowing this sport was being transformed at this time because the Americans had just introduced the idea of sliding seats.

The Royal Alfred were promoting a race for centre board or sliding keel boats over a four hour course in the bay with prizes presented by members who were not yacht owners.
Return to top of page

Malahide Regatta, 4th August, 1873.
The Freeman's Journal, 5 August, 1873

"The Regatta for this year at Malahide came off yesterday in threatening, though favourable weather for sport afloat. The heavy rain of the previous night and that which fell about noon yesterday had the effect of making the attendance of fashionables not as numerous as on previous occasions. The green presented a very gay appearance, and there seemed to be in the entire scene a kind of compromise between a regatta and a fair. Spectators from the rural districts were most numerous, and crowds of excursionists availed themselves of the inducements in the shape of reduced railway fares held out by the Drogheda Railway Company. The coastguard's mast was gaily decorated with flags, as were also several craft lying at the head of the estuary. On the green were to be seen a number of curiosities in a show, in which the "wonders of the deep" were exhibited for a penny, wheels of fortune, and groups of out-door gamblers, card-sharpers, and trick-o'-the-loop men, who had mysteriously disappeared for some time past, but who made their appearance together yesterday at Malahide. Along the yellow sands groups of roving vocalists, dancers, match sellers and sailors without legs and sailors without arms, tried to push the best trade they could amongst the crowds who had come to make holiday by the seaside. About two o clock the sun shone out brightly, and the weather in the afternoon was all that need be desired. The fine band of the King's Dragoon Guards were stationed in the pleasure grounds, and performed in excellent style. The sailing matches, which were announced to start at one and half-past two o clock, did not come off until half-past three and four o clock.
The first "event" for yachts was for:--
First Prize - The Malahide Cup; Second Prize - A Cup.
Open to all Yachts not exceeding 15 tons. A time race.
Ripple, George Murphy, Esq., 12 tons, R.U. Y.C., red with white lion.
Elaine, W.G.Jameson, Esq., 10 tons, R.I.Y.C., black with gold star.
Snowdrop, J.J.O'Flanagan, Esq., 15 tons, green with crest.
Wonderful, H.C.Fox, Esq., 10 tons, R.I.Y.C., red and green diagonal.
Owing to the shallowness of the water in the estuary the start had to be effected outside the bar, and at a distance from the short which prevented anything like a good view of the commencement of the race. The wind was blowing fresh, at about W.N.W., when the four vessels got away. The Elaine got in front, closely attended by the Wonderful; but the Ripple, owing to the absence of her topmast, was unable to send up her gaf-topsail, and consequently laboured under a great disadvantage. They all came in about half-flood and the beat up the narrow channel was most interesting. The Elaine arrived first, winning the prize; the Wonderful was second, (SEE IMAGE OF CUP)   the Snowdrop third and the Ripple last, from the cause above mentioned. This little vessel was the favourite, and, on equal terms would in the weather of yesterday have left her rivals nowhere.
The second race was for -
First prize, the Visitors Cup; Second, a Cup. To start at 2.30 p.m. from the Bar.
Open to all yachts not exceeding 7 tons; a time race.
Colomba, T.M. O'Callaghan, Esq., owner, 3 tons, I.M.Y.C., flag green and orange.
Flirt, J. Charley, jun., Esq., 7 tons, R.W.Y.C., flag white with black chevron.
Dream, P. Dunne, Esq., owner, 6 tons, R.W.Y.C., red flag.
Cygnet, Captain Dorman, owner, 3 tons.
Wyvern, Colin Napier, Esq., owner, 6 tons, R.A.Y.C., flag blue with white Maltese cross.
In this contest the Wyvern soon went to the front, and continued to keep her advanced position up to the finish. The Flirt came in a good second.
A race for coastguard boats under sail next came off, and all the barges were well handled in a well-contested race. The following race would have been an interesting one had it been fairly pulled out:-
For Pair-oared Race Gigs. To be pulled by gentlemen.
Dublin University Rowing Club - Royal blue - G.D.Cochrane, 9st. 7 lb.; J.H.Cathrew (stroke), 9st. 3lb.
Neptune Rowing Club - White and blue - A.Carson, 10st. 3lb.; J.M.Whittaker (stroke), 10st. 1lb.
Commercial Rowing Club - Crimson - A.Lang, 11st. 6lb.; J.Passant, 11st. 5lb. (stroke).
Soon after starting, the University boat got slightly ahead, but the other two boats repeatedly fouled and gave Mr. Cathrew an easy victory. The principal rowing race on the "carte" was for -
The Ladies' Cup. For four-oared race gigs, to be pulled and steered by gentlemen.
Neptune Rowing Club - Blue and White, A.Carson, 10st. 3lb.; J.Baker, 11st.; J.W.Whittaker (stroke),11st. 1lb.; C.Neville,(cox), 8st.
Pembroke Rowing Club - J.C.Hayes, 9st. 9lb.; C.S.Brownrigg, 10st. 7lb.; J.E.Purser, 11st. 4lb.; G.M.M'Murdo, 10st.; W.Bentham (cox), 8st. 4lb.
Commercial Rowing Club - Crimson - B.Bloomfield, 1st 4lb.; B.Finn, 11st. 8lb.; A.Lang, 11st. 6lb.; J.Passant (stroke), 11st. 5lb.; G.Owens,(cox), 8st. 5lb.
From start to finish this was a good contest, particularly as it lay between the Neptune and the Commercial. The former came in two boats' lengths ahead, and the Pembroke, pluckily rowed, was a good third. A number of minor rowing matches were pulled, and the sports were brought to a close with a grand display of fireworks given by Mr. J. Lawrence, of Grafton Street, to the delight of an immense gathering from town and country."
Return to top of page

Malahide Regatta, 23rd July, 1874
The Freeman's Journal, 24 July, 1874

"In former years the Malahide Regatta possessed peculiar features of novelty and attraction, as it was a kind of compromise between a fair, a nautical race "meeting" and a district holiday for the bucolics prior to the busy harvest time. The green in front of the Coastguard Station was wont to present a most lively and diversified scene, in which strolling players, showmen, and speculative artists in the "trick o' the loop", three cards, and wheel of fortune line took active and prominent parts. Country women from every part of the surrounding districts used flock in thousands, in all the gayest hues of rural fashion, to enjoy the sports, which up to a recent period, were most popular among the Fingalians. But the glory has departed from Malahide Regatta. This was well exemplified in that for this year, held yesterday. It was in every way a genuine failure ashore and afloat, in consequence of the weather, which was of the most unfavourable character. The drenching rain of the previous day made persons unwilling to run the risk of going to the sea coast yesterday, and the ordinary and special trains from town went down comparatively empty. At the pretty watering-place, up to two o clock, there did not appear anything to induce a person to believe that the most demure and sedate of sea-side hamlets was to be disturbed from ordinary dozing tranquillity by anything in the shape of festivity. There were no crowds of rustics or groups of nautical men on the beach or sandhills, and even the green was all but deserted. About half-past two o'clock the rain, which had been long brooding overhead, came down in torrents, and drove all who had been out of doors to seek shelter where best they could find it. For more than an hour the rain fell as if it was rehearsing another deluge, and the roads presented more the appearance of rivers than ordinary highways. When the downpour moderated, a few stragglers were to be seen her and there by the seaside, and all prepared for a hasty retreat on the approach of other showers which were to be seen in the masses of watery clouds to windward. To add to the drawback on the sports, if sports they could be called, there was scarcely a breath of wind for the yachts entered for the sailing matches. The competing vessels were to be seen in a lazy group outside the bar, scarcely making "steering way". During the short periods between one shower and another, the band of the Royal Irish Constabulary under Mr. Clarke, and the band of the 17th Lancers under Herr Hartmann, performed within the enclosure to very few listeners indeed. The first race on the card was the sailing match for the Malahide first and second cups. The following were entered:- Ripple, Snowdrop, Ildegonda, Queta, Wonderful, Fairlie, and Lady Isabel. All interested in yachting gave themselves very little concern in the race, as they knew there would be no wind to try the vessels. A dreary business ended by Mr. Jameson's cutter Queta coming in the winner of the first prize, and the Wonderful second. In the race for the Visitor's Cup and the second prize, Mr. Fox's schooner Myrrah and Mr. Hutchinson's little cutter Cupid were the only craft that showed in an affair which could not be called a race. A long drift ended by the Myrrah coming in as the winner by nine seconds. The first prize was won by the schooner and the second by the Cupid. The third sailing match was between coastguard boats from Baldoyle, Malahide, Rush, Lambay, Skerries, and Balbriggan stations. This was another slow affair and concluded by Malahide coming in first, Rush second, and Baldoyle third. The Ladies' Prize of five Cups, value £25, for four-oared gigs rode by gentlemen, was pulled in wretched weather. The first tie was rode by a crew of the Kingstown Harbour Boat Club and a crew of the Neptune Rowing Club. The latter kept the lead, but lost it by a bad turn round the flag-boat, and the Kingstown crew came in a short distance in advance. The concluding tie ended in a briskly-pulled race by the Kingstown crew and a crew of the Dolphin Rowing Club, which ended in a dead heat. The deciding heat was a walk-over for the Dolphins. While all the "events" above recorded were going on, the rain came down in heavy and frequent showers. After nightfall Mr. John Lawrence of Grafton-street, gave a brilliant display of fireworks."
Return to top of page

Malahide Regatta, 27th July, 1875
The Freeman's Journal' 28th July, 1875

"This, perhaps the oldest aquatic reunion in Ireland, was the means of drawing large numbers of spectators to Malahide. The weather, for once this month, was all that could be desired, and though the early morning argued ill for the day, there was a brilliant sunshine throughout from a bright blue sky. The day was in every way more like a July one than any we have had for a few weeks past, but the morning was not sufficiently promising to induce a numerous assemblage of fashionables. Still there were many there, and an agreeable promenade was to be had in the pretty park in front of the Royal, to the music of a military band. Two classes of people, as different as the North and South Poles, assembled at Malahide yesterday. They were the city and suburban folk and the rustics, of whom there was quite a crowd. All the surrounding districts of Rush, Swords, Howth, etc., contributed large contingents of peasantry, whilst the well-regulated specials of the newly-named Northern Railway Company brought down the metropolitans at convenient hours. The neighbourhood of the flag-staff on the beach at Malahide was almost entirely occupied by the rustics, who seemed to thoroughly enjoy the reel and Irish jig to the time observed on a flute or a fiddle by an itinerant musician. In fact with Aunt Sally - now a recognised member of every motley throng - pop guns, three cards, loop, a fire-eating man, and a man on stilts, one portion of the regatta quay assumed the appearance of a country fair, whilst at the end of the strand nearest the open sea one met quite a different class of people. But all seemed equally happy and on pleasure bent.
The record of the day's business will not likely fill any important page in the aquatic calendar, though nevertheless it attracted and was attractive. The report appended amply tells the story of the yachts under canvas, and little need be said of the other contests. The Dolphin Club swelled a well-prepared and neatly-printed programme with two entries, but the men apparently preferred remaining within doors on the muddy banks of the Dodder to trying conclusions with their opponents on the waters of Ireland's Margate.
Passing over the minor events which had but little interest (some of them none at all), we come to the race for "A Cup," to be rowed by pairs in gigs. It fell to the Commercial Club, whose pluck and perseverance will yet win many a laurel for the wearers of the crimson, and they beat the Neptune men as easily as they did in the Ladies' Cup for fours. Here, too, these little gods of the sea got thoroughly well thrashed, and to all appearances the men whose colours are blue and white are anxious to lease the one old position in all struggles, last. A word about the arrangements. They were admirable, and but for one point a total neglect of punctuality, might be pronounced perfect. At the close of the day there was a "pig and pole" in the water which made everyone laugh, and in the evening there were fireworks on the ground and in the air which made every one wonder. So ended what was at once an enjoyable and successful regatta.
Appended are the details:-
The efforts of the committee to make the yachting element a success have been each year crowned by increasing success, and have this year culminated in the best entry of purely racing vessels they have had yet. Malahide is not naturally a good place for a yacht race, but by close observance of the exigencies of the occasion the committee have arrived at a very fair solution of the difficulties they had to encounter, and by starting the yachts outside, and finishing as near high water as possible up the river, they have water for their vessels and the public got a good view of the proceedings. The first race for the Malahide Cup, value £20, and a second value £5, brought the following to the post:- Ildegonda, 14 tons; Elaine, 10 tons; Fairlie, 14 tons; Wonderful, 10 tons; Queta, 10 tons; and Ripple, 12 tons. The latter lead out at the first, and held the lead all through, but was headed at the post by Fairlie, the little Queta so well up that she took first in time - the finish being -

Fairlie ... 4h 12m 10s
Ripple ... 4h 12m 32s - second in time
Ildegonda ... 4h 13m 40s
Queta ... 4h 13m 45s - winner of Cup in time."

Malahide Yacht Club now holds the second-place cup won by the Ripple in 1875. It was purchased in 1994 or 1995 at a London Metropolitan Police auction of unclaimed recovered stolen goods and the purchaser passed it to the Club in 1996.The Ripple was built in Belfast in 1862 for G. Brett by D. Fulton, a building contractor who also built yachts and was a leading member of the Royal Ulster Yacht Club. Fulton was also a member of the Clyde, Mersey, Western and Prince Alfred Yacht Clubs. In the Carrickfergus Regatta of 1866 there was a 12 ton cutter Ripple owned by D. Boyd of Royal Mersey Yacht Club. The boat later passed into the ownership of George Murney who was originally a member of the Royal Mersey Y.C. George Murney was an original member of the Royal Ulster Yacht Club when it was founded in 1867. He was Number 13 on the membership list and was the Club's first treasurer in 1867. He is recorded as owning the 12 ton cutter Ripple and an 8 ton cutter Lily when he joined the Club. He was still a member in 1884 but off the membership list in 1890 ( the intervening records are missing). Murney was keen yachtsman, not only in Belfast Lough as he and Ripple appear in Carlingford regattas in 1872, 1877, 1878 and the Royal Irish in 1887 as well as several years at Malahide. His brother, Dr. D. Murney, Number 6 on the Royal Ulster members list, was Rear Commodore of that club from 1875 until 1883. The original of the painting pictured here is in the Royal Ulster Yacht Club in Bangor, Co. Down.
Return to top of page

"In the 7 ton race the only starters were - Dream, 5 tons, Wyvern, 6 tons; and Wee Pet, 5 tons. Dream led from the start, which was a very close one, but in the river after the first round got ashore, as did also the Wee Pet, the latter grounding twice, which enabled the Wyvern to take second place; but when the Dream came in apparently the winner, she was declared disqualified by the committee for having gone over the line before the second gun fired. With all confidence in the judgement of the committee we consider this as shaving a little too close, considering the others did not object, and that she was called back, but did not comply. However, she, up the time the Wee Pet went ashore, had her beaten, and it is not on such a day as yesterday that Wee Pet will beat her. Wyvern gets second, but not through any merit or sailing that is in the boat.
PURSE for boats to sculled with an oar from the stern.
Money prizes.
The Irish Girl (P. Sharkey, owner) ... ... 1
St. Michael (C. Hatch, owner) ... ... 2
Won very easily.
RACE open to all yachts. Money prizes.
The Fanny ... ... ... 1
Won very easily.
PAIR_OARED RACE for gigs. Prize, a cup.
Commercial Rowing Club ... ... 1
Neptune Rowing Club ... ... 2
The crews were-
Neptune- A.Carson, 10st. 12lb. (bow), J.W.Whittaker, 11st. 10lb. (stroke).
Commercial- A. Lang, 11st. 5lb. (Bow), M.J. Murphy, 11st. 7lb. (stroke).
The pair remained pretty even to the turn, where the Commercial men steered beast, and drawing away returning home, won easily by about three lengths clear.
THE LADIES CUP, value £20, for four-oared gigs.
Commercial Club ... 1
Neptune Club ... 2

The crews were;-
Neptune:J.F.Whitestone, 10st., Jas. Simpson, 11st. 4lb., A.Carson, 10st. 12lb., J.Whittaker (st.), 11st. 12lb., D.Athol,cox
Commercial; J.M'Tiernan, 10st. 10lb., J. Twamley, 10st. 12lb., M.J.Murphy, 11st. 7lb.,, A.Lang, 11st. 5lb., (stroke), B.Owens,cox
The pair rowed even for a few strokes, when the Commercial men assumed a lead which they held to the turn round, which they got quickest. From this point to home they continued to increase their command, and won finally by three lengths clear.
The coastguard boat-race was won by the Lambay boat, the second being that pulled by the men stationed at Baldoyle."
Return to top of page

The Freeman's Journal, 22nd July, 1876

Fearful Yachting Accident, New York, Friday

"The yacht Mohawk, 330 tons, of the Brooklyn Club capsized in a squall yesterday evening off Staten Island through the negligence of the sailing master. Vice-Commodore Garner and his wife and five others were drowned. The accident has caused a profund sensation here."

Malahide Regatta, Saturday, 29th July, 1876
The Freeman's Journal, 28th July, 1876

"To-morrow, Saturday, on the occasion of Malahide Regatta a steamer will start from Custom House Quay at 11 o clock and will return about 6 o clock in the evening. Passengers will be afforded an opportunity of landing if possible."

Regatta Intelligence
The Freeman's Journal, Monday, 31st July, 1876.

"On Saturday last the usually quiet and picturesque maritime town of Malahide was raised from its somnolent appearance to one of unusual gayness and activity. The annual regatta took place on a finer day or one better suited both for the pleasure of the yachtsman and the enjoyment of the visitor could not be selected. The committee who had the management of the regatta left nothing on their part to be undone for the pleasure of the visitors. The trains brought large numbers of passengers both from the city and also from the northward, while fresh contingents arrived from other quarters. Stationed in St. James's - square were the band of the Royal Irish Constabulary, who with sweet harmony charmed the ear, which was enjoyed by the large and fashionable concourse of the elite of the surrounding neighbourhood. On the green skirting the river were assembled by far the largest and seemingly happiest portion of the gathering. All classes of itinerant musicians took up a position on the green, and whether violin, bagpipes, tin whistle, or dulcimer, all had their respective crowds of interested spectators who either watched or joined in the merry movements of the terpsichorean and in which some bucksome dames and agile swains showed their dexterity. The other adjuncts, too, of merry-making and enjoyment were not wanted. The programme contained events for all classes and for the yachtsman there was a fine north-west which prevailed throughout the day. There were also several events for coastguards. It was to be regretted that the first-class boat race did not fill. A new feature at regattas was the introduction of the National Lifeboats, and several interesting contests took place between them. Captain Gray Jones, R.N., Inspector of Lifeboats, looked after this portion of the day's entertainments, and provided a considerable source of amusement and instruction for the on-lookers. The Queta has proved herself the heroine of another victory, while the Flower of 5-ton yachts, the Camelia, has proved herself a clipper. She brings back to the Clyde four prizes won since her visit here. First match for yachts of 15 tons and under; prize, the Malahide Cup, value £20; second, a cup, value £5. Queta, 10 tons, W.G. Jameson; Elaine, 10 tons, M.B. Murray; and Mystic, 10 tons, G.Putland, were the starters. The race was from the bar to a flag boat off Ireland's Eye, thence to one off Lambay Bay, and once around a flag boat in the river. The start was effected at 3 o clock, and the first named was first away, followed by the others in the order named. It was a close haul to the first and second marks, after which several short tacks had to be made to reach the flag boat, which was reached in the following order:- Queta, winner, 5 hours 7 min. 40 secs.; Elaine, second prize, 5 hours 13 min. 45 secs.; Mystic, not timed. Visitors' Cup, open to yachts of 7 tons and under; Wee Pet, 5 tons, C. Kinsley; Dream, 5 tons, P.Dunn; Clotilde, 5 tons, W.Colhoun; Camelia, 5 tons, John Craig; Nanilla, 2 tons, G. Jameson. A fine start was made by the last-named yacht, which flew away with the lead. All started under single reefed mainsails and second jibs. In making the first marks, to which there was a close haul or starboard, Camelia soon after the start, set a square-headed topsail, but finding it of no use, it was soon hauled down. She plied the first mark with a long lead, the Dream following, Pet and Clotilde having run foul which was caused by the Wee Pet not giving way. Camelia made splendid way, running up the river, through which several starboards had to be taken after rounding the flag to the next mark. The same tacks were followed on the second round, the Camelia rounding the flagship a winner at 4 hours, 28 mins. 20 secs.
Dream, 2nd prize . . . 4h 35m 16s
Clotilde . . . 4h 36m 20s
Wee Pet . . . 4h 38m 00s
Nanilla . . . 4h 38m 20s
Open boat race, cups for the first and second boat; Alice, W. Sharpe, first; Iris, 2nd prize. A. Newcombe, Aphrente 3rd; Kate, 4th. Lady Alice, Cora Dot, and Firefly also entered. Sailing match for the life boats of the National Lifeboat Institution. 1st Skerries; 2nd Howth; 3rd Rogerstown. The winner was objected to on the ground of having used two steer oars instead of one. The matter has not yet been decided. Coast Guards - Malahide boat 1st; 2nd Portrane boat; 3rd Balbriggan; 4th Lambay. The first boat was disqualified in consequence of a foul. A prize of 6 sovs. Was won by Fanny, four oared boat, Christopher Hatch; Swift, 2nd prize, James Hall; No Go, 3rd, Thomas Jones.
Rowing match between Life Boats - Howth, 1st prize, £6; Rogerstown, 2nd prize, £3. Skerries boat also started. A prize of £5 competed for by Malahide, Lambay, Balbriggan and Portrane coast guards also arrived in the order named, but the first boat was disqualified in consequence of a foul. An interesting exhibition took place by the Howth life boat men who went through a series of manoeuvres, and finally upturned their boat, which righted itself in a few seconds. There being no competitors they got first and second prizes. The days amusement was brought to a conclusion by a grand display of fireworks."
Return to top of page

Carlingford Regatta was a collective title for the Warrenpoint, Greenore and Rostrevor regattas which were held on consecutive days and were apparently attractive events about this period attracting sailing entries from North and South as well as from the Clyde and Merseyside. Ripple was regular competitor. The course for the Greenore event was from the start at the committe-boat moored off the Station Hotel, round the Tidal Rock, then back round the flag-boat off Rostrevor and round the flag-boat off Warrenpoint, from thence again to the Tidal Rock and win at Greenore.

Clontarf Regatta committee had a grandstand for the comfort of their patrons.

"Captain Keebler, of the steamer Liverpool, belonging to the Sligo Steamship Company, was summoned before the Liverpool Magistrates to-day for having carried more passengers than were allowed by his certificate. The evidence showed that on the 1st inst. The steamer arrived at the Clarence Dock from Sligo, and 428 passengers, chiefly harvestmen, were counted by the police-officers leaving or on board. The number of passengers allowed by the certificate was 350. For the defence it was stated that the police at Sligo refused to protect the owners of the steamers in preventing the excess of harvestmen from getting on board, and as they were armed with their scythes it would have been dangerous to attempt to drive them off unassisted by the police. The bench inflicted a fine of £10 and costs, and 5s. per head each for the 58 passengers in excess."

Letter published by The Cork Herald, 21st July, 1877

THE FLEET IN BESIKA BAY
Her Majesty's ship Alexandra, July 12, 1877

"The admiral and staff are up at Constantinople. Turkish men-of-war pass day and night conveying troops; some splendid looking ships amongst them. We were practising with the electric light last night. With its aid you can examine a ship from stem to stern; even the smallest craft is within reach of this powerful light. No doubt it would be invaluable in naval warfare in detecting the approach of an enemy under cover of night who might be desirous of attempting a surprise, testing the efficiency of his torpedoes on our ironclads.
A general belief permeates the fleet that we shall be active participants before long. All is ready for any contingency that might be brought about by passing events. All symptoms of discontent have passed away, and been absorbed in a desire to sustain the honour and good name of the old flag, should it be run up in the presence of any enemy."

DATES OF REGATTAS
The Freeman's Journal, Saturday, 2nd August, 1877.

"Boyne This day
Dalkey do do
Malahide August 4th
Wexford do 6th
Blackwater do 7th
Coleraine do 8th

The above regattas run too close to one another; it being absolutely impossible for crews to put in an appearance at more than two of the lot. Boyne and Dalkey cut one another's throats, both being held today. It is a pity the several committees did not see to this before, as both regattas are naturally weakened by the clash. Malahide, on the 4th, Sunday intervening between it and Wexford, Blackwater next day, and then a mighty jump from the south to the far north, to be present at Coleraine on the 8th. The regattas, consequent on the above arrangement of the dates, prove little more than affairs of local interest."
Return to top of page

AQUATICS
MALAHIDE REGATTA
The Freeman's Journal, 4th August, 1877.

"The annual regatta at Malahide comes off to-day (Saturday), to which the greater number of aquatic-loving citizens will repair. The series of amusements provided by the committee of management are equal to those of former years, and, from the way in which they were previously carried out the visitors are certain of a good day's amusement. The aquatic entries include several sailing events and rowing matches, including competitions among the fishermen and coastguards. In the rowing matches for amateurs, the Kingstown Boat Club and Neptune Club have sent representatives to contend for the blue ribbon on the pleasant waters of Malahide. The band of the Royal Irish Constabulary will be in attendance during the afternoon, and a display of fireworks, besides several aquatic sports, including a punt chase and pig and pole will conclude the entertainment of the day."

Malahide Regatta - Saturday, 4th August, 1877
The Freeman's Journal, 6th August, 1877.

"The annual regatta at the Northern suburb came off on Saturday last, and may be classed as one of the successful reunions of the season. The weather was fine, the sport good, and the attendance large. The programme, though not lengthy was varied, and contained many events which excited a considerable amount of local interest. In St. James's-square the band of the Royal Irish Constabulary performed for the pleasure of a large and fashionable gathering. The several contests were watched with no small interest, especially the rowing matches. In one of the chief events the prize was gallantly carried away by the Dolphin representatives, who deserved well the victory, but were less fortunate in the race for four-oared gigs. The following are details:-
The first match was for yachts of 15 tons and under, the prize being the Malahide Cup, value £20, with a cup of £5 for second. Entries:-
Avoset, sch. 10 tons, B. Hone, Mystic, cutter, 10 tons, R. T. Gordon and J. Lloyd., Lady Alice, cutter, 8 tons, G. Moyles. Cloud, cutter, 10 tons, R. Boyd.
The latter was among the competitors before the start, which was made at two o clock. The wind hung a nice topsail breeze from the south-west, the Cloud went away with the lead, followed by Avoset, Mystic taking up the rear. To the flag boat off Ireland's Eye, it was a beat with a long and short leg. The leader kept close up to the mark, and lost some ground, which was taken advantage of by Avoset. They continued in the order named for some distance on the reach down to the flag-boat at Lambay, where the Avoset went into first place, and held that position throughout, increasing her lead on the beat back mark of Ireland's Eye. She, however, lost some of her former advantage on the run of the river, but not sufficient to deprive her of first prize, Mr. J. Russell steering her to victory in good style, the match being finished at -
Avoset ... 4h 3m 40s
Cloud ... 4h 4m 55s
Lady Alice ... 4h 9m 0s
Mystic did not round the flag-boat.
The next match was for the Visitors' Cup, and also a similar prize for second yacht, the match being confined to boats under seven tons. The competitors were -
Harry Bluff, cutter, 5 tons, H.M. Rynd, Rose, cutter, 5 tons, W. O'Connor.
The pair were started at 2.30 when the Bluff, getting to windward, made the best of the beat to the south-ward for the flag-boat. The Rose got somewhat ahead, but lost her advantage by going about too soon, while the Bluff held on and got around the mark first. Immediately after rounding the first mark spinnakers were boomed out to port, the Bluff being quickest at this, while the Rose had no stay to keep down her boom, which was continually blown forward. However, both yachts kept side by side on the run up the river, one moment the Bluff going a few feet in advance, the next the Rose overhauling her. When nearing the flag-boat Rose went out to the port side, and, having held on rather too far, allowed the Bluff to cut inside her. In the clearing of this mark the latter shoved the Rose so far out that she went aground and lay there for half an hour. The Harry went away and won as she liked. The Rose, after getting off, went away for the second round, but got into another mishap and did not return.
For yachts of four tons and under two cups were offered as prizes. The
Cleomene, cutter, 3 tons, J. Stevenson. Victoria, yawl, 3 tons, J. Russell.
The start was made between two boats at flagboat in the river. There was a lot of beating and careful sailing to guard against going aground. Cleomene took the lead at the start. The race was concluded at
Cleomene ... 4h 23m 40s - see cup opposite
Victoria ... 4h 24m 45s
Eight boats started for the two prizes given for open sailboats. After a fine race the match was concluded by Mr. Beggs getting first prize.
H. M. S.
Wee-Wee-Pet ... 5h 16m 0s - 1st. prize
Alice ... 5h 25m 0s - 2nd. prize

The Portrane coastguards won the prize of £3 given for open sail boats, Malahide the second prize, £1 10s., beating the representatives of all the other stations.
There being only one entry for the prize for the yachts' gigs, the committee refused to give it for a walk over. The Wallflower (Mr. A. O'Connell), however, made a match with the Fanny (C. Hatch). The former won after a well-contested race.
For pair-oared gigs, without coxswains, the entries were:-
Neptune, T. Williams; R. Alexander, stk.
Kingstown H. B. C., G. Richards; H. St. Barbe, stk.
Dolphin, B.C., J. Chambers; G. Crinian.
The Neptune, in the first station, got away with the start, but the Kingstown men who were the last away, soon took the lead. The latter pulled a good steady stroke, and had the Northern, which they got around first, the Neptune to the south, were next in order. The latter, however, though pulling a good stroke, were not quite matched, as the starboard oar pulled his man quite around, and drove him right across the river into the water of the Kingstown crew and crossed them. The latter were obliged to pull up, and when going off again were a second time crossed by the Neptune. The Kingstown men running their bow into the side of the other boat, the Kingstown accordingly eased off, and rode in after the Neptune. The Kingstown men were awarded the prize by the committee. The next race was for pair oared boats with cox.
Neptune R.C., S. Barnewall, J.J. Minchin, stk; W. Brown, cox.
Kingstown H.B.C., A. Ganly, R.C. Lee, stk; Adams, cox.
Dolphin, - Chambers, J. Moroney, stk; J. Smith, cox.
A fair start was made, Dolphin holding the south station and the Neptune the north. The three boats kept pretty close together for half the way down the river, then the Dolphin began to forge ahead, and the Kingstown crew were under a bad guide, as he was driving them to the Neptune buoy. The Dolphin were first around the mark, and continued to lead away home, taking advantage of the tide, while the Kingstown and the Neptune went away to the north shore, the Kingstown coxswain edging the Neptune nearly on the bank. The Dolphin men, however, had the race in hand, and won as they liked, being several lengths in advance of the Neptune at the post.
The prize of £5 for first and £2 10s. Second, for four-oared boats, pulled by coastguards, was won by the Malahide men, Lambay second. The aquatic part of the programme was brought to a finish with a pig and pole, which created a considerable share of amusement. A grand display of fireworks by Mr. Hodsman took place in the evening."
Return to top of page

Malahide Regatta - Tuesday, 6th August, 1878
The Freeman's Journal, 8th August, 1878.

"Malahide was quite en fete on Tuesday in consideration of the annual regatta, an event long-looked for by the inhabitants of the surrounding district, who mustered in strong numbers on the green sward in the vicinity of the river. The contingents from the country were largely augmented by city folk who came down by the numerous trains despatched by the Northern Company from Amiens-street terminus. Unlike the previous day, by which the Clontarf amusements were deferred to Thursday, the weather was all that could be desired, the sun in all its splendour smiling down on the festive scene from the early morning until he hid his head for the night. The wind also steadily held on to the last, carrying the several yachts around the course in good time, and gave those on board enough to do during the matches. On the greens no end of tents were erected, and their enticing and gaudy signs had their attractions for many a pleasure-seeker, with the harsh violins and bagpipes of the itinerant musicians, while the nimble feet of the bucksome country pairs beat time on an improvised wooden floor. Of the sailing matches little can be said as to their complete satisfaction to sailing men, but every one of the yacht owners have reason to congratulate themselves on the prospect of competing at Dalkey to-day, and not being held fast in the Malahide river. The Gondola carried away the Malahide Cup out of the arms of the Avoset, who did not come to the winning post to tell of her disasters. Clotilde got her first win of the season, beating Harry Bluff, who unfortunately made some mistake, the Rose merely appeared at the post to show her colours. Cleomine took the prize for three-tonners, the Sunshine being only about four minutes behind her at the finish. As to the rowing matches they were a complete failure, not in consequence of anything left undone by the committee, but by the apathy of most of our local rowing clubs, who had not sufficient energy among their members to send in representatives. The events commenced with the match for the Malahide Cup, value £15, second a cup of less value, open for yachts of 15 tons and under.
The entries were:-
Laner, 10 tons, Captain Price.
Lady Alice, 8 tons, G. Moyers.
Avoset, schooner, 10 tons, B. Hone.
Gondola, 10 tons, R. Russell.
A strong easterly breeze saw the yachts start at an easy reach from the flagboat in front of the river to the rounding mark near Ireland's Eye. Lady Alice was an absentee, and the other three sped away under full canvas with square topsails and topsail jibs. Avoset soon after the start, took 1st place and held it on to the flagboat off Lambay. Laner and Gondola were in company during the day, the former taking second place for a considerable time. Gondola, however, overhauled her and Avoset, and finally ran home a winner by several minutes. Laner passed the flagboat in the river second, and got the second prize. Avoset did not finish.
In the match for yachts not over 7 tons Clotilde, 5 tons, J. Kelly, Harry Bluff, 5 tons, H. Rynd, and Rose, 5 tons, W. O'Connor, were the competitors. The latter did not finish, and the Harry Bluff, though leading for some time, did not go the prescribed course, and the Clotilde won the prize.
Third match, for yachts not over 3 tons; prizes, two cups for first and second. Sunshine, R. Russell, 3 tons, yawl; Cleomine, J. Stephenson, 3 tons; Ianthe, 3 tons, D. Beggs, and Alice, 3 tons, J. Hynes, were the competitors. Cleomine and Sunshine were the only two in the match from the first, Alice not going off in time, and Ianthe was not able to make way against the strong tide. When going down the river for the flagboat off the Bar, Sunshine lost the race on the run in from the flagboat, but got second prize. Arethusa, W. Joynt, won the prize for the open boats; Victoria, F. Pennycock, second. For the Junior Sculls, J.B. Heuston, Drogheda Club, had a walk over. In the pair-oared match Neptune and Dolphin sent crews. The latter, after a feeble race, smashed an oar, leaving the brothers Bowles to win. The Neptune Club won the prize for the pair-oar gigs, J.S. Bain and H. Dixon beating S. Arthurs and A. Maxwell. For the presentation cups the Neptune and Dolphin Clubs sent crews in four-oar gigs. The latter won easily. Some other local events came off. The band of the 91st Highlanders were stationed in the St. James' Ground, and performed a choice selection of music, and a grand display of fireworks by Mr. Lawrence brought the day's programme to a successful conclusion."

HOWTH AND BALDOYLE, 1857

"On Wednesday and Thursday, the 12th and 13th August, 1857, the Howth and Baldoyle Regatta came off under the Patronage of His Excellency the Lord Lieutenant and the Right Honourable the Earl of Howth. Many yachts attended and the display of bunting ashore and afloat was very cheering to the holiday folk.
For the first race, a cup valued at 40 guineas, for yachts not exceeding 35 tons, the following entered: Meteor 20 tons, Kelpie 22 tons, Atalanta 27 tons, Vigilant 32 tons and Banba 20 tons."

GALWAY BAY REGATTA, 1857

"The Annual Aquatic Sports were held on July 30th and were attended by His Excellency the Lord Lieutenant and a numerous suite. The Regatta commenced with a race for first-class Hookers for a purse of £20. Twelve started and the stakes were shared by the following:
Father Mathew, Bridget and Mary and the Seamew.
On the second day a sumptuous 'dejeuner' was given in honour of His Excellency, by Sir Thomas Blake, to which the ' elite' of the county and the yachting visitors were invited."

Aquatics
Howth Regatta
The Freeman's Journal, 28th July, 1879

"This regatta has been taken up by a committee of gentlemen and residents in the locality, and will undoubtedly prove a grand fete at this fashionable watering place. A liberal programme of aquatic sports will be provided for the visitors and already a considerable sum has been subscribed. A most influential committee has been formed, whose united efforts must certainly make the affair a grand success. The regatta will probably take place on Saturday, the 6th September."
Return to top of page

A poem recalling the loss of the yawl 'Anne of Malahide' which capsized on the bar on 14 November 1828 with the tragic death of four local fishermen, Michael Gaffney,Tim Gaffney, Pat Dunne and Michael Finn. The ballad was composed at the time by a teacher in St. Andrew's National School. Only the body of Michael Gaffney was recovered and was buried in Malahide Abbey by his wife Rose who is reputed to have walked the shore every day until she herself recovered her husband's corpse.