The Orleans Yacht Club (OYC) on Cape Cod was founded and chartered in 1947, established to foster yacht building, sailing, and aquatic sports, plus social connection in Orleans' beautiful Town Cove. Key founders included Harry Snow and Jarrett Blodgett (first Commodore). The OYC offers popular Junior & Adult Sailing Programs, hosts the Nauset High School Sailing Team, runs regattas, and hosts many social events, continuing its role as a vital part of the local maritime community on land donated by Henry K. Cummings.
Key Milestones & Activities:
Founding (1947): Incorporated with goals to promote sailing and aquatic sports.
Early Growth: Grew quickly as a center for Cape Cod sailing, thanks to its prime waterfront location.
Sailing Programs: Launched its popular Junior Sailing Program (JSP) in 1947 and later an Adult Sailing Program.
Nauset Regional High School Sailing: Became the home base for the high school team, starting in the late 90s, a significant addition to local sailing.
Community Hub: Hosts various events, from regattas (like the DaySailer Fleet 15 races) and US Coast Guard Auxiliary courses to lobster bakes and holiday parties, blending sailing with strong social ties.
Charitable Arm: Supports youth sailing through the Robert Radtke Memorial Fund, providing scholarships.
was founded and incorporated on September 22, 1947, to encourage yachting, aquatic sports, and social interaction among its members in Orleans, Massachusetts.
Founding and Early Years
Incorporation The OYC was officially chartered on September 22, 1947.
Founding Members Key founding members included Harry Snow, Edgar Downs, Helen Smith, Mrs. Norman Downs, Dr. Fred Raddin, and Jarrett Blodgett, who served as the first Commodore.
Original Purpose The club's charter established the goal of promoting interest in yachting and aquatic sports, and fostering a sense of community among members.
First Clubhouse The initial clubhouse was Edgar Downs' boathouse located in the southwest corner of Town Cove, which is still visible today as a guest cottage.
Current Location The land for the current clubhouse was donated by Henry K. Cummings of Orleans.
Growth and Programs
The OYC has evolved over the decades, expanding its facilities and activities while remaining rooted in its original mission.
Sailing Programs The club has run a popular summer Junior Sailing Program (JSP) since its founding in 1947 and also offers an adult sailing program.
Community Involvement It serves as the home port for the Nauset Regional High School sailing team, a program initiated by OYC members in 1996. The club also hosts the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary's and the Cape Cod Power Squadron's boating safety courses.
Radtke Memorial Fund The Robert Radtke Memorial Fund, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, was established in 1989. This fund provides scholarships for local students needing financial assistance to participate in the Junior Sailing Program, ensuring broader community access to sailing.
Social Activities In addition to marine activities, the OYC organizes various social events throughout the year, such as clambakes, holiday parties, and weekly dinners, enhancing camaraderie among members.
The Orleans Yacht Club remains a cherished part of the Cape Cod sailing community, blending tradition with active sailing and social programs. More information is available on the official Orleans Yacht Club website.