A Local Tour of BHYC

How has this idea enhanced your club's operation, etc.?

The town of Bay Head holds a population of only 930 residents over .71 square miles. In such a small town, a club as large as Bay Head Yacht Club makes a major impression on the community. The town of Bay Head was founded in 1879, only a few years before the establishment of the Bay Head Yacht Club in 1888. Due to the close proximity in time, the Club has proved to be a significant piece of Bay Head's storied past. The Club’s leadership, along with the town mayor (also a member) decided to participate in a town-wide event that allowed members of the public to tour the historic buildings within the town.

Bay Head Yacht Club opened its doors to the public and even facilitated an in-depth, verbal history of the Club and its historical significance to the town provided by Commodore and Club Historian Jim Cadranell.

How was this idea implemented, and what have been the club members' reactions?

The Bay Head Yacht Club was able to engage with the community at a more intimate level than it previously had been able to by offering residents an open house tour. This allowed them to get a better understanding of how the Club and its structures are of historical significance to the fabric of the community.

With such a rich history, it also gave members an understanding of what it really took to sculpt the town into what it is today. From the earliest days of the Club to its modern form, the entire story was told, and showcased how the success of the town and the Bay Head Yacht Club have gone hand in hand for over a century. Those that attended enjoyed the interesting tour and presentation.