CBC

Crescent Boat Club is one of the ten rowing clubs that make up Boathouse Row along the Schuylkill River in Philadelphia. We are members of the United States Rowing and original members of The Schuylkill Navy.

Within our boathouse we support the crew teams of Roman Catholic High School and Merion Mercy High. Membership is open and voluntary. In addition to the high school programs we have active community programs teaching sculling to young people in our Novice Camp, and summer racing programs for Junior, Senior, Open and Masters Rowers.

HISTORY

Crescent was organized in 1867 when the Pickwick Barge Club and Iona Barge Club merged membership. At this time they occupied space in what is now the Fairmount Boat Club. Crescent joined the Schuylkill Navy in 1868 and later incorporated in 1874. Construction on the first phase of the house completed in 1871 and in 1891 renowned architect, Charles Balderston, completed the second floor addition. The club colors are red and white.

In addition to many victories celebrated by the club, one early notable rowing event involving Crescent was the first time locally that an eight race was held (at the inaugural National Regatta in Philadelphia in 1873). It is reported that Crescent won by ¾ of a length over Undine and West Philadelphia (Penn AC) boat clubs.

Crescent remained an active and competitive club through the early 1940’s. However, because of declining post-war membership, Crescent turned the operation of the boat house over to LaSalle (College) Rowing Association from 1951-1960. The house was later reoccupied by Crescent under the leadership of long-time member John Wilkins which led to the club’s rebirth. Others offering significant contribution at that time included Tom Rafferty, Tom and Joe Kealey, Steve Neczypor, Bud Ennis and Dave Ragan.

Since the 1970’s Crescent has experienced membership growth through novice, junior and masters programs. In particular, our junior program continues to flourish with many summer-time victories and solid representation at the Canadian Henley.