Original Document

"Aquatic Register"

Boat racing and sailing has become a matter of such general attention and interest, that we shall be obliged to make a distinct department in the Spirit of the Tunes for the purpose of chronicling the sayings and doings of the different Clubs and Associations throughout the country. We cannot commence this department with a pleasanter affair than

'THE GULL'S" visit to Philadelphia.-The New York: Association Club Boat, The Gull, reached town on Wednesday evening, from our sister city where they experienced the kindest and most general hospitality. The Philadelphia Gazette of last Monday contains the annexed paragraphs relative to The Gull and her gallant crew:-

Among the interchanges of civility and compliment with which the volunteer and amateur associations of Philadelphia and New York are in the habit of occasionally regaling each other, we have never beheld any more imposing than that embraced in the fete given on Saturday last to the Gull boat-club, of the New York Amateur Association, by the united members of a similar body in Philadelphia. A splendid procession came off on the Schuylkill, in honor of the aquatic delegation from the sister metropolis. It was a beautiful sight, as the fairy craft, handsomely manned, left the shore at Belmont, and sped gracefully round the green island which sleeps so sweetly on the bosom of the river, above the rail road bridge-the destination of the party was to the mouth of the romantic Wissahiccon, and the Falls of Schuylkill. At the latter point the New York members were acceptably entertained; and after a sufficient pause, the oars of the whole array of boats were cleaving the wave, southward bound. As they re-approached the bridge, and swept gracefully under its arches, the huzzas went up from such a goodly number of throats, 'that the verdure on the picturesque hills round about, seemed to quiver in the voice of gratulation. The banks of the Schuylkill, during the procession, presented a most animating spectacle–being decorated–we may well use the word-with ladies on horseback, accompanied by gentlemen of the city, and in various vehicles, from the humbly rolling gig to the imposing four-in-hand.

Arrived at the Cottage, a sumptuous dinner table awaited both entertainers and guests. It was loaded, we learn, with all the viands and delicacies of the season; no preparations having been neglected to render the affair-the vinous department in particular-and that it should be. The company separated at an early hour, not displeased with themselves, and at peace with the world.

The Gull Club left the city to-day for their home, bearing with them the good wishes of the entertainers, and the best feelings toward the members of the Falcon, Wave. Gipsey, Dart, and Gondolier Clubs. These reciprocal courtesies are calculated to cement friendly attachments; and when conducted as in the present case the most perfect and gentlemanly propriety, reflect honor both upon the hosts and the recipients of their hospitality.

The GULL in returning last Wednesday, rowed round Staten Island, and dined at New Brighton, after rowing 40 miles, where they were most hospitably entertained by MR. MILFORD at the Pavilion. They were escorted up to town by the Boat Club Association after their delightful visit. The Club request us to make their grateful acknowledgments to the Schuylkill Amateur B.C. Association.

Credit: The Spirit of the Times, September 16, 1837.