note | Regattas

  • 1775 Trewman’s Exeter Flying Post, Friday 18 August 1775, p.3:

On Monday last the Gentlemen of the Starcross society gave an Entertainment to their Friends at that Place, under the Denomination of a Fête Marine. — At eight o’Clock in the Morning, the Exmouth Yatcht, accompanied by a Band of Music, came from thence, with several of the Members of the Society, and having saluted the King’s Cutter, and the Village of Starcross, anchored opposite the Octagon Building in Lord Courtenay’s park, and join’d his Lordship’s Yatcht, and several more of the Members’.— As soon as the Tide serv’d they were joined by the Bee Yatcht, and several other Vessels and Boats from Topsham, Lympston, and that Neighbourhood, about 20 in Number, and full of Company; and having saluted the Castle, the Cutter, and the Vessels at Starcross, and receiving proper Returns, they all proceeded to sea, sail’d as far as Teignmouth, and returned back to Starcross about 4 o’Clock, the Weather being very fine, and the Wind quite in their Favour: After which several Boats row’d from the Octagon to the Watch-House, and back to the steps at Starcross, for a prize of ten Guineas given by the society. The platform at the Quay, before the Courtenay Arms, was rail’d in for the purpose, and laid out in several Walks, on which a Number of Trees were planted for the Occasion, and Arches thrown across, on which were several thousand Lamps, which made a beautiful Appearance. At six the Ladies and Gentlemen, invited to partake of the Evening Entertainment, came, and as soon as it was dark, very curious Fire-works and Illuminations were displayed, close by the Water side, which afforded great Entertainment, as the Evening was remarkably fine, and then high Water. It was seen at a great Distance, and appeared particularly well from the opposite shore. At 9 the Ball was open’d, and a handsome cold supper provided at twelve o’Clock. The Whole was conducted with great Regularity, and the company parted about 3, well pleased with the Entertainment they had received; and the whole country seemed to contribute every Thing in their power to make it brilliant and agreeable. Notwithstanding the amazing concourse of people, and the Number of Boats, we have not heard of a single Accident happening. The Fire-works were mostly prepared and conducted by Sig. Paulo Colpi, and did him great credit.

  • 1779 Samuel Curwen in his journal 5 July 1779 at Exmouth (ed. Andrew Oliver, vol.2 pp.542-3, with ‘Sharcross’ amended here to Starcross):

Showry all day, wind N. W. […] a little Cottage inhabited by a Widow and her Dauter […] my lodging house […] situated opposite to a wide raised walk, on one side lined with trees, and on the other lying open to extensive flatts back of Town on the river Exe, at the mouth of which this town lies as its name imports. These flatts are in a bay 2 miles wide, and when covered by the tide renders the prospect very agreeable, having in view on opposite shore Starcross and its shipping, Lord Courtenay’s Belvidere, Lord Lisburnes obelisk, Topsham and a very fine improved country. This [day] a Regatta or rowing match was performed between Exmouth and Starcross, high winds, frequent showers and want of curiosity prevented me a sight of. From hence is to be seen English Fleet under Sir Charles Hardy of 33 of line and 12 frigates lying in Torbay open to our view here.

1786

  • 1786 Bath Chronicle, 3 August 1786:

Extract of a letter from Exeter, July 27, | “Yesterday being the day appointed for the Regatta at Starcross, a prodigious number of people resorted thither. | At ten o’clock Lord Courtney [William’s father], Lord Lisburne, and most of the nobility and gentry in the county, in yachts, accompanied by an incredible number of vessels and boats, sailed over Exmouth bar, with bands of music, drums, and trumpets, and proceeded about two leagues out to sea; they then returned amidst the acclamations of many thousand spectators assembled on the sea-shore, as well as at Starcross; they were saluted on their sailing and return by a great number of cannon from Powderham, Starcross, and the Warren, and altogether made a most enchanting spectacle, to which the fineness of the weather greatly contributed. | At six in the evening five boats started for the allotted prizes, but did not afford much sport, as they all came in at some minutes distance, the wind blowing very fresh. | At night there was a very elegant ball in a superb room erected for the occasion, adjoining the Courtney Arms, which was finely illuminated both within and without, with some thousands of small coloured lamps disposed in festoons and triumphal arches, in imitation of Ranelagh. Before the ball commenced the most brilliant display of fireworks was exhibited that was ever seen in the west of England.

  • 1786 Hampshire Chronicle, 7 August 1786:

Extract of letter from Exeter, July 27. | “Yesterday being the day appointed for a regatta at Starcross, in this neighbourhood, a vast concourse of people resorted thither from this city, and all the towns and villages adjacent. | About ten o’clock in the forenoon, Lord Courtenay [William’s father], Lord Loughborough, Lord Lisburne, and most of the nobility and gentry in the county, in yachts, accompanied by an incredible number of vessels and boats, with bands of music, drums, and trumpets, sailed over Exmouth bar, and proceeded about two leagues out to sea, then returned amidst the acclamations of many thousands of spectators, assembled on the shore and at Starcross. On their sailing and returning, they were saluted by several cannon from Powderham, Starcross, and the Warren, and the whole had a very beautiful effect. | In the evening five boats started for the allotted prizes; they went as far as the bar and back again to the starting post opposite Starcross. The first that came in had three guineas, the second two, and the third one guinea. | There was a most splendid ball at night, in a very superb room erected for the occasion, near the Courtenay Arms, which was finely illuminated both within and without, with thousands of small coloured lamps, placed in arches and festoons in imitation of Ranelagh. | About eleven o’clock the most brilliant fire-works were displayed on the Quay that were ever seen in the west of England. | Every thing conspired to render this regatta a most pleasing spectacle, it being a remarkable fine day, and notwithstanding the prodigious concourse of people, no accident happened.”

  • 1786 Kentish Gazette, 1 August 1786:

Plymouth, July 27. This morning being the day appointed for a Regatta at Starcross, a great concourse of people assembled on the occasion. About nine o’clock, Lord Courtney [William’s father], with a select company of the nobility and gentry of the neighbourhood, in their yachts, accompanied by a number of sloops and boats, sailed over the bar with a fine wind, and after having proceeded as far as off Teignmouth, returned. On sailing, on their return, they were saluted by number of cannons, off Powderham, Starcross, and the Warren. In the evening, five boats sailed for the allotted prizes, after which was a very splendid ball, at a room, erected for the occasion, at the Courtney’s Arms, at which most of the nobility and gentry of the county were present. An elegant display of fireworks was also exhibited, and the ball-room was superbly illuminated. Every thing conspired to make it agreeable, and although there were an incredible number of spectators both on the water and on shore, we do not hear of any accident whatever.

1800-1802

  • 1800 Exeter Flying Post, 14 August 1800:

Exeter, Wednesday, Aug. 13. | […] Monday last 300 French prisoners marched through this city on their route to Stapleton, near Bristol. | Yesterday the prizes given by the Right Hon. Lord Viscount Courtenay were sailed for on the River Exe, in front of Powderham Castle. — Twenty-two boats started, but the following were the successful candidates, viz. Mentor’s boat, first prize, Mr. Thompson’s boat (of Plymouth,) second prize, Major Templer’s boat third prize. His Lordship embarked on board his elegant barge about half past-ten, accompanied by another barge having a band of music on board. A cannon was immediately fired — the band struck up “God save the King,” and the boats got under weigh, forming a beautiful and picturesque appearance, highly gratifying to a large concourse of spectators, who attended on the occasion.

  • 1801 Exeter Flying Post, 16 July 1801:

To be Sailed For, | On Monday the 17th Day of August next, at Eight o’Clock in the Morning, on the River Exe, from Knob to Exmouth, and back again, the following Prizes, given by the Right Honorable Lord Viscount Courtenay, Viz. | First Boat, — A Cup, Value 25l. [£25] | Second Boat, — Five Guineas, | Third Boat, — Three Guineas, | Fourth Boat, — Two Guineas. | The Prizes not to be sailed for, unless 15 Boats have entered. | No Rowing Boat to be admitted. | No Boat to have any Oar in it, and but one Boat-Hook. | Every Boat to keep in the Channel. | Any Boat or Boats on the Starboard Tack to bear up for the Boat or Boats on the Larboard Tack. | Every Person to draw Lots which shall be the Western Boat at Starting. | The Person who wins the Cup to pay the Master of the Yacht Two Guineas. | Powderham Castle, July 8th, 1801.

  • 1801 Exeter Flying Post, August 20:

Monday the silver cup given by Lord Viscount Courtenay was sailed for on the river Exe, in front of Powderham Castle; 16 boats were entered, but the prize was warmly contested by two boats from Plymouth; one belonging to Mr. Dyer, master of La Nymphe frigate, was however the successful candidate, and received the elegant silver cup, value 25 guineas, from the fair hands of the Hon. Miss Courtenay. — The second prize of 5 guineas, and the third prize of 3 guineas, were won by Plymouth boats; the fourth prize of 2 guineas was won by a Lympstone boat. — The day being remarkably fine, a large assemblage of company attended, all of whom were much delighted with so picturesque a scene. — The boats started by signal gun at about eleven o’clock, and returned to the Goal about one. — His Lordship’s yachts were dressed in their colours, and the number of pleasure boats which crouded the river, added to those who contended for the prizes, formed a most pleasing prospect, highly gratifying to every spectator.

  • 1801 Star, 22 August 1801:

Monday the silver cup given by Lord Viscount Courtenay, was sailed for on the river Exe, in front of Powderham Castle: sixteen boats were entered, but the prize was warmly contested by two boats from Plymouth: one belonging to Mr. Dyer, Master of la Nymphe frigate, was, however, the successful candidate, and received the elegant silver cup, value 25 guineas, from the fair hands of the Hon. Miss Courtenay. The second prize of five guineas, and the third prize of three guineas, were won by Plymouth boats; the fourth prize of two guineas was won by a Lympstone boat. The day being remarkably fine, a large assemblage of company attended. The boats started by a signal gun about eleven o’clock, and returned to the Goal about one.

  • 1802 Exeter Flying Post, 15 July 1802:

To be Sailed For, | On Thursday the 22d Day of July next, at Eight o’Clock in the Morning, on the River Exe, from Knob to Exmouth, and back again, the following Prizes, given by the Right Honorable Lord Viscount Courtenay. | Viz. | First Boat, — A Cup, Value 25l. [£25] | Second Boat, — Five Guineas, | Third Boat, — Three Guineas, | Fourth Boat, — Two Guineas. | The Prizes not to be sailed for, unless 15 Boats have entered. | No Rowing Boat to be admitted. | No Boat to have any Oar in it, and but one Boat Hook. | Every Boat to keep in the Channel. | Any Boat or Boats on the Starboard Tack to bear up for the Boat or Boats on the Larboard Tack. | No Boat to have more than three Sails upon the Wind, allowing one Top-sail or Square-sail off the Wind. | Every Boat to return with the same ballast. | Every Person to draw Lots which shall be the Western Boat at starting. | The Person who wins the Cup to pay the Master of the Yacht Two Guineas. | Powderham Castle, 28th June, 1802.

  • 1802 Exeter Flying Post, 29 July 1802:

Thursday last the Prizes given by the Right Hon. Lord Viscount Courtenay were sailed for on the River Exe, fronting Powderham Castle; the distance from Knob, whence they started, to the buoy off Exmouth and back again, is about six miles. — Fifteen boats contended for the Prizes, which were won as follows: | First Prize, a Silver Cup, value 25l. [£25] a boat belonging to a gentleman of Stonehouse. | Second Prize, Five Guineas, a boat belonging to Mr. Owens, of Topsham. | Third Prize, Three Guineas, a boat belonging to Mr. Burdon, of Teignmouth. | Fourth Prize, Two Guineas, a boat belonging to a gentleman at Lympstone. | A very large assemblage of company, in carriages, on horses, and pedestrians, lined the shore on each side. The elegant yachts of his Lordship were dressed in their colours, and a band of music played therein during the contest. His Lordship embarked on board his twelve oar’d barge about half past eleven, and the signal gun was fired immediately after, for the boats to get under weigh. The weather being very favourable, the number of pleasure boats on the river, and the spectators who crowded its banks, gave the whole a very picturesque and pleasing appearance.

1831-1835

  • 1831 Devon and Exeter Gazette, 18 June 1831:

We are authorized to state, that under the spirited patronage of J. H. Ley, esq. of Trehill, and J. B. Swete, esq., of Oxton, who have undertaken to act as Stewards, that Sailing and Rowing Matches will be contested some time in August, on that most beautiful part of the River Exe, between Starcross and Powderham, towards which all the Gentry of the Neighbourhood have very liberally contributed; the Earl of Devon having headed the list with a munificent donation for a cup.

  • 1831 Devon and Exeter Gazette, 27 August 1831:

Starcross Regatta was an out-and-outer. Between 8 and 9,000 persons assembled on the banks of the river, and every kind of vehicle for keeping nautical spectators afloat was adopted. The Public Breakfast at the Courtenay Arms was very suitable, the catering being by Townsend, and was well attended, numbering upwards of 100 guests. The Powderham Cup was won by the Falcon of Torquay; but from want of wind, the prize for Yachts belonging to Starcross, was not awarded, and is to be sailed for on Wednesday the 7th of September. The prize for six-oared Boats was won by the Red Rover, of Exeter. That for four-oared Boats was not contested. The prize for the Revenue Boats, was won by the boat of the Sprightly. This Regatta on the whole was one of the most picturesque things that we have ever witnessed; it was a day of general hilarity and rational mirth. Hosts of visitors poured in from all quarters; numbers proceeded from Exeter down the Canal, whilst those who preferred the road, were seen to hasten along the dusty way with all the speed that horse flesh could command — and the turn-outs of this description were by no means mediocre. Hundreds crossed the Exe from Topsham and its vicinity down to Exmouth; whilst Dawlish, and the region round about was equally on the alert, and poured forth its masses. At the zenith of its splendour this festival stood unrivalled for the hearty joy and satisfaction which it seemed to create, whilst the splendid equipages on the Beach, as well as the music and well dressed Promenaders gave a finish to the whole in such style as will render the return of this Regatta a matter of anxious expectation next year. The day passed off without accident, with the exception of one or two duckings, which afforded considerable amusement. Tomkins says he took a Duck in, but then he alludes to the Victualling Office.

  • 1831 Morning Post, 5 September 1831:

Exeter, Aug. 30. | The Starcross Regatta which took place on Monday last was one of the gayest which we remember. About 7,000 persons were assembled on the banks of the river, while the Exe was crowded with boats of every description. The breakfast at Southwood’s Courtenay Arms Inn was admirably served, and attended by above a hundred of the rank and fashion of the neighbourhood. The Powderham Cup was won by the Falcon, of Torquay; but from want of wind the prize for yachts belonging to Starcross was not awarded, and is to be sailed for on Wednesday the 7th of September. The prize for six-oared boats was won by the Red Rover, of Exeter. That for four-oared boats was not contested. The prize for the Revenue boats was won by the boat of the Sprightly. — (Western Luminary.)

  • 1832 Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, 21 July 1832:

Starcross Regatta, | Will take place on Thursday, 26th July, 1832. | When the following Prizes are to be Sailed aud Rowed for: | First Prize. — A Silver Cup, Value 10 Sovereigns, given by the Earl of Devon, to be sailed for by Yachts not exceeding 26 feet over all. Second Yacht, 3 Sovereigns. | Second Prize. — Silver Cup, given by the Stewards, Value 5 Sovereigns, to sailed for by boats belonging to Starcross, not exceeding 16 feet in length. Second Boat 30s. | Third Prize, Silver Cup, Value £5, given by the Ladies. — To be rowed for by Gentlemen rowers in four-oared Boats. | Fourth Prize. — To be rowed for by six-oared Boats. — First Boat £3. 10s., Second Boat £1. 10s. | Fifth Prize. — To be rowed for by four-oared Boats, not exceeding 26 feet, First Boat £2. Second Boat £1 10s. | Sixth Prize. — To be rowed for by four-oared Boats belonging to Revenue Cruisers and the Coast Guard, First Boat £2. Second Boat £1. | Seventh Prize. — To be rowed for by two oared Boats, by youngsters not exceeding 20 years old, First Boat 30 shillings, Second Boat 15 shillings. | A good Band of Music will attend. | Public Breakfast at the Courtenay Arms at Half past One O’Clock. | Lady Patroness. | Mrs. Furse, of Kenton Cottage. | Wm. Reginald Courtenay, Esq. J. Newcombe Stevenson, Esq. Stewards. | Committee Rooms, Courtenay Arms, | Starcross, 16th July, 1832.

  • 1832 Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, 28 July 1832:

Starcross Regatta. — The lovers of aquatic amusements enjoyed a delightful treat yesterday (Thursday), at the annual Regatta. A great number of boats were on the water, most of which were crowded with fashionable company — the Exeter Brass Band being afloat, and the Teignmouth Band ashore, playing alternately favourite and popular airs, which enlivened the gay scene. The first prize, for sailing Boats, a Silver Cup, given by the Earl of Devon, value 10 Sovereigns, was won by the Falcon, beating three others; the second prize, a Silver Cup, value Five Sovereigns, was won by the Sincerity, beating the Notable, Percival, and Adelaide; the third prize for gentlemen rowers, a Silver Cup, was won by the Ariel, beating the Zephyr; the fourth prize for six oared boats, £3 10s., by the Red Rover, beating the Hebe; the fifth prize, £2, by one of the Preventive Boats; the sixth prize, £2, by a Revenue Cruizer Boat; seventh prize, 30 shillings, by a Topsham boat, beating the Starcross boats. We have not room to notice the gaiety of the public breakfast, the equipages of the fashionable attendants, &c. &c.

  • 1832 Trewman’s Exeter Flying Post, 2 August 1832:

Starcross Regatta. — The lovers of aquatic amusements enjoyed a delightful treat on Thursday, at the annual Regatta, at this place. […] The public breakfast, the cold collation, &c., was admirably served by Mrs. Southwood, of the Courtenay Arms, and was fashionably attended.

  • 1833 Western Times, 29 June 1833:

The Starcross Regatta. — This Regratta [sic] is fixed for the 30th of July next. We understand that the preparations promise a great treat. The worthy host of the Courtenay Arms we are informed has catered bountifully, shrewdly anticipating a host of consumers.

  • 1833 Woolmer’s Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, 13 July 1833:

The Starcross Regatta which was fixed for Tuesday the 30th July, is | Postponed | To Thursday the 29th of August.

  • 1833 Woolmer’s Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, 24 August 1833:

Eagle Tavern, Starcross. | Wm. Quick, impressed with gratitude for the very distinguished patronage he experienced at Haldon Races, begs to return sincere thanks to his numerous Friends and the Public; and most respectfully reminds them that at the ensuing well-known Starcross Regatta, which takes place on Thursday the 29th inst., he will have such accommodations, as he trusts will ensure their future favours. A handsome Cold Collation the whole of the day, with choice Wines, &c. &c. | W. Q. begs to add that every article in his line shall be of the best quality, on moderate terms. | A sufficient quantity of Stabling and Coach Houses. A Platform will be erected in front of the House to command a full view of every match. | Eagle Tavern, Starcross, Aug. 24, 1833.

Starcross Regatta. | A Regatta for Sailing and Rowing Boats, will be held at Starcross, Thursday, 29th August, 1833, when the following Prizes will be given: | First Prize: — To be Sailed for by Boats not exceeding 26 feet in length over all, | First Boat, A Silver Cup, value 10 Sovereigns. | Second Boat, 2 Sovereigns. | Second Prize: — To be sailed for exclusively by Boats belonging to Starcross, not to exceed 16 feet Keel, | First Boat, A Silver Cup, value 5 Sovereigns, | Second Boat, Thirty Shillings. | Third Prize: — To be rowed for by Gentlemen Rowers, in 4 Oar’d Boats, | A Silver Cup, called the Ladies’ Cup, (Three to Start or no Race) — value 5 Sovereigns. | Fourth Prize: — To be rowed for by any 6 Oar’d Boats, | First Boat, 2 Sovereigns.— Second Boat, 1 Sovereign. | Fifth Prize: — To be rowed for by 4 Oar’d Boats, not exceeding 26 feet, | First Boat, 2 Sovereigns, —Second Boat, 1 Sovereign. | There will be a Band in attendance; and | A Public Breakfast at the Courtenay Arms, at Half-past One o’clock. | Mrs. St. Leger, Lady Patroness. |Honourable George Lysaght, Augustus Stowey, Esq., Charles Eales, Esq., Stewards. |Printed Instructions for Starting, Sailing, &c., may be obtained at the Committee-Room, at the Courtenay Arms, Starcross, where all Boats intending to Sail or Row for the Prizes must be entered before 10 o’Clock on the morning of the 29th of August. | Committee Room, Courtenay Arms, Starcross, | Aug. 16th, 1833.

  • 1833 Western Times, 31 August 1833:

Starcross Regatta, on Thursday last attracted a vast and elegant concourse of spectators. The turns out along the whole line of road were exceedingly respectable —many of them elegant, and the amusements of the day, were well sustained.

  • 1833 Woolmer’s Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, 31 August 1833:

Starcross Regatta. — This grand aquatic gala on Thursday, drew a numerous attendance of fashionables, and crowds of other spectators from the surrounding neighbourhood. Vehicles of every description were continually arriving during the morning, which rendered this charming watering-place a scene of gaiety of the most gratifying description. The public breakfast, at Southwood’s Courtenay Arms, was most creditable to the caterer, and the elegant and tasteful display on the tables elicited general admiration: it was attended by a highly respectable and far more numerous company than was ever before known on any similar occasion. In front of house was Lord Clifford’s fine Yeomanry Band, in regimental costume, which played a variety of favourite airs, adding much to the general cheerfulness. After the breakfast, they struck up on the balcony, several waltzes, which induced a gay party of young ladies and gentlemen to enjoy a pleasant and agreeable trip on the light fantastic toe. — There was also an excellent cold collation, laid out in the first rate style, at Quick’s Eagle Tavern, on the Strand, of which a large number partook. The Exeter Brass Band were stationed on a platform erected outside this inn, and delighted the company with the masterly execution of several choice compositions. Mr. Q., as if determined that nothing should be wanting to keep up the interest of the scene, had several great guns, whose thunders resounded to the opposite shore, which were lost only in the wide expanse. The beautiful situation of Starcross is admirably adapted for such a recreation, and the marine view from the Esplanade is most interesting. Before the Regatta commenced, the fine estuary of the Exe, which was at full tide, presented a grand & imposing spectacle, from the number of vessels, yachts, and boats floating on the magnificent sheet of water, many of which were laden with rich and charming cargoes of elegantly dressed young ladies, whose smiling countenances gave a zest to the whole; whilst the sweet notes from the Exmouth band wafting in the gentle breeze, fell on the enraptured ear, and mingling with the music of the undulating waves, had a very pleasing effect. The arrangements for the sport were most judicious, and the following were the results: — | The Ladies’ Cup, value Ten Sovereigns, for 1st class sailing vessels, from 7 to 10 tons, was won by the Belle Sauvage, Mr. Godfrey, beating the Fairy, Sir Lawrence Palk, Red Rover, John Stephenson, Esq. Hebe, Capt. Tupman, Invincible, Capt. Turner. | This was one of the best contested sailing matches ever witnessed, and the nautical tactics displayed, did great credit to those who had the management of the vessels. | The Silver Cup, for 2nd class sailing vessels was admirably contested, and was eventually won by the Eliza, Mr. F. Glendenning, beating the Louise, Mr. W. Ash, Sincerity, Mr. H. Ash, Nautilus, Lieut. Corneck, and Fancy, Mr. Thomas Glendenning. | The Ladies’ Silver Cup, gentlemen rowers, was won by the Ariel, belonging to the Exeter Boat Club, beating Mr. Brooking’s Witch. | The Prize for six-oared boats was beautifully contested by the Red Rover, Arrow, and Wasp, manned by picked crews from the Exe, Dart, and Teign, and the victory awarded to the Red Rover, belonging to the Exeter Boat Club. | The Fifth Prize, for rowing boats, was won by the Witch, of Dartmouth, Mr. Brooking, beating Mr. W. Owen’s Black Gig. | Starcross ranks among the first places on the beautiful South coast of Devon, for sailing and rowing matches, and we hope it will be kept up annually with the same spirit it has hitherto.

  • 1833 Trewman’s Exeter Flying Post, 5 September 1833:

Starcross Regatta, on Thursday last, attracted a vast and elegant concourse of spectators. […] There were no fewer than three excellent bands of music present — the Exmouth, the Exeter brass band, and the the South Devon Cavalry band, which enlivened the town throughout the day. The Public Breakfast, at Southwood’s Courtenay Arms, was attended by more than a hundred of the principal families of the neighbourhood. After breakfast, the Company retired to the platform, erected in front of the house, to witness the contests for the different prizes. The sailing and rowing Matches being over, most of the company returned to the Ball Room, where the merry dance was kept up for several hours. Among the company were the Rt. Hon. Lady M. Vaughan, the Hon. George Lysaght and Family, Mr. and Miss Newman, Mr. and Mrs. Kekewich, Mr. and Mrs. Swete, Mr. and Mrs. Stevenson, Mr. and Mrs. St. Leger, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Eales, Mr. Stowey, Mrs. Furse, Mrs. R. Buller, Mr. and Mrs. Northcott and Miss Buck, Mr. and Mrs. and Miss Chichester, Mr. and Mrs. Ellicombe, Mr. and Mrs. Marker, Mr. and Mrs. Burlton, Mr. Houldsworth, M. P., Mr. Powel, Mr. Patterson, Mr. Palk, Mr, Mrs, and Miss Lloyd Sanders, Mr. and Mrs. Collyns, Mr. and Mrs. Kennaway, Mrs. and Miss Hassell, Miss Frost, Miss Stevenson, Miss Bine, Miss Rooke, Mr. John Ley, Mr. J. S. Pitman, Lieut. and Mrs. Cornick, Mr. Powley, Mrs. Lillies, Mr. Smith, Capt. Greenhill, Capt. Macdonald, &c. &c.

  • 1834 Woolmer’s Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, 26 July 1834:

Starcross. — The Regatta at this charming marine village, Starcross, is fixed for the 1st of August; when three silver cups, and many other prizes will be contended for, so that several capital matches are expected, and the Exe will no doubt, present a gay appearance. — The public breakfast will be held at Southwood’s Courtenay Arms. — See advertisement.

Starcross and Exe Regatta. | A Regatta for Sailing and Rowing Boats, will be held at Starcross, on Monday, August the 4th, 1834, | When the following Prizes will be given: — | First Prize — To be Sailed for by Boats not exceeding 26 feet in length, over all. | First Boat — the Earl of Devon’s Cup, value 10 Sovereigns. — Second Boat — Two Sovereigns. | Second Prize — To be Sailed for (exclusively) by Boats belonging to Starcross, not to exceed 16 feet keel. | First Prize — The Stewards’ Cup, value 5 Sovereigns. — Second Prize — £1 10s. | Third Prize — To be Rowed for by Gentlemen Rowers in Four Oared Boats, | A Silver Cup, called the Ladies’ Cup, (Three to start or no race) value 5 Sovereigns. | Fourth Prize — To be Rowed for by any Six Oared Boat. — First Boat, 2 Sovereigns — Second Boat, 1 Sovereign. | Fifth Prize — To Rowed for by any 4 Oared Boats, not exceeding 26 feet. — First Boat, £1 10s. — Second Boat, £1. | A Public Breakfast at the Courtenay Arms, at half-past One o’Clock. | Stewards. | Sir Lawrence Vaughan Palk, Bart. | Montagu Edmund Newcomb Parker, Esq. | There will be a Band in Attendance. | Printed instructions for Starting, Sailing, &c., may be obtained at the Committee Room, at the Courtenay Arms, Starcross, where all Boats intending to Sail or Row for the Prizes, must be entered before 10 o’Clock on the morning of the 4th of August. — Committee Room, Courtenay Arms, Starcross, July 22, 1834.

  • 1834 Trewman’s Exeter Flying Post, 7 August 1834:

Starcross and Exe Regatta. […] The last Prize in this very gay and well conducted affair, was the Earl of Devon’s Cup, to be sailed for by boats not exceeding 26 feet in length over all, and for which was entered, The Red Rover, Mr. CV Bodley, Exeter; Invincible, Mr. Samuel Turner, Exmouth; Ada, Mr. John Parker, Exmouth; The June, Lieut. Flinn, Exmouth; The Hebe, Mr. Tupman, Exmouth. For these as in the last, the weather was very favourable, there being a pretty steady breeze, and after another most gratifying display of nautical skill, at 8 o’clock the matter finished by Mr. Parker’s Ada winning the Cup; and Mr. Turner’s Invincible the second Prize of 2 sovereigns.

  • 1834 Woolmer’s Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, 9 August 1834:

Starcross Regatta. — This aquatic fete took place on Monday last, when this pleasant place was very gay. The public breakfast at Southwood’s Courtenay Arms, was exceedingly elegant, and attended by one hundred and eleven of the Gentry of Devon and Exeter. Mrs. Kennaway was the Lady Patroness; and Sir L. V. Palk and M. E. N. Parker, Esq. Stewards. The Hon. Baronet was prevented from attending in consequence of an accident sustained by him at the Torquay Regatta, and A. Stowey, Esq. did the honours for him. A band was in attendance, and enlivened the scene by playing favourite airs: a very large number also dined at Southwood’s. Quick’s Eagle Tavern was fitted up with considerable taste for the occasion, and in a gallery erected on the walk in front, the Exmouth Band was stationed. Numerous parties took refreshments at the Eagle during the day, in attention to whom the host and hostess were indefatigable. […] The proceedings on the river went off exceedingly well, and gave general satisfaction; but gloom was thrown over the scene soon after the close of the Regatta, by the death of Mr. Henry Slade, of this city, who was unfortunately killed by one of the cannons. The last salute was ordered to be fired by the guns forming a battery on the quay, and at that instant the deceased incautiously advanced in front, at the moment one of the guns was discharged; he was struck about the centre of the body by the wadding, which, together with a piece of his trousers, was afterwards found lodged near the heart; he was dreadfully mangled, and died instantly. The deceased was about 32 years of age, and much respected; he was possessed of a comfortable independence, and has left a widow and one child. An inquest was held on the body on Tuesday, and, after a long investigation, the Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

  • 1834 North Devon Journal, 14 August 1834:

Starcross and Exe Regatta. — This Regatta came off on Monday last, when the prettily situated town of Starcross presented a scene of the most enlivening gaiety. Indeed the spirit with which the inhabitants entered into the sports cannot be surpassed; the exterior of their houses were tastefully decorated, and several of those overlooking the river, fitted up with temporary galleries for the accommodation of their friends, while the most generous hospitality reigned within. The station of the Committee was at Southwood’s Courtenay Arms Inn, and here the gentry assembled. | As the tide began to flow in the afternoon, the river presented a most animated scene. Immediately opposite the town lay the Transit yacht E. L. Kemp, Esq. which was gaily dressed, and the vessels and boats were very numerous. The flag or starting boat was stationed off the Quay, and not far from where the Transit lay; the extent to be gone over being marked by a boat lying off Powderham Castle, up the river, and another placed below the town. At about three o’clock, the business commenced with a Punt race. The river’s bank was at this time thickly lined with the numerous parties that had poured into the town, and the galleries already spoken of and every window commanding the river were occupied. To this succeeded the contest for the Ladies’ cup, this was to be rowed for by gentlemen rowers in four-oared Boats, and the Boats entered were the Ariel and the Watersprite, belonging to the Exeter Boat Club, and manned by the gentlemen of that Club. Messrs. Watts, Angel, F. Sanders, and Clark, being stationed in the Ariel; and Messrs. Barton, Bowring, S. Kingdon, jun., and J. Brake, in the Watersprite; two lads of Starcross, of the name of Grey, being the coxwains. The course was twice round the mark boats and back to the starting or flag boat, a computed distance of about 5 miles, and down the river, against the tide, which, with a breeze, was setting strongly in. It was a most manful display, and was done in 1 hour, the Ariel being the victor. Next followed a contest in which a rivalry for the honour of the respective towns was the matter at issue, and, like the previous one, excited the most intense interest: the Prize being 1l. for the winning boat, and the men belonging to her, 5s. each. The Ariel and the Watersprite, were handsomely lent by the gentlemen of the Exeter Club, to be respectively manned by men of Topsham and Starcross; the distance to be gone over being similar with that of the preceding match. The men tossed for the choice of boats, which was won by Starcross, and they chose the Watersprite, her crew consisting of George Rackley, Wm. Guernsey, John Poole, and Wm. Warren. The Topsham men who manned the Ariel, were Michael Murphy, John Murphy, Joseph Pim, and James Sanders, and rarely, has greater skill or nautical exertion in this way been exhibited, and after a most severely contested race, the men in the Ariel, were the victors. | The Steward’s Cup, was now sailed for by boats exclusively belonging to Starcross, not to exceed 16 feet keel, and for which was entered Mr. Wm. Ash’s Aspasia, Mr. Henry Ash’s Sincerity, Mr. Thos. Glendinning’s Eliza, Lieut. Corneck’s Nautilus, and Mr. Glendinning’s Fancy. These were to round the mark boats 3 times, and presented a fine exhibition of nautical skill, the Cup being won by Mr. Glendinning’s Eliza, and the second prize of 1l. 10s. by Mr. Henry Ash’s Sincerity; the contest between which and Mr. Wm. Ash’s Aspasia, (a new boat and not before tried,) was of the most scientific kind, being completely a neck and neck business, their bowsprits presenting themselves on arriving at the flag-boat within from two to three feet of each other. | The last Prize was the Earl of Devon’s Cup, to be sailed for by Boats not exceeding 26 feet in length over all, and for which was entered, The Red Rover, Mr. C. Bodley, Exeter; Invincible, Mr. Samuel Turner, Exmouth; Ada, Mr. John Parker, Exmouth; The Jane, Lieut. Flinn, Exmouth; The Hebe, Mr. Tupman, Exmouth. For these as in the last, the weather was very favourable, there being a pretty steady breeze, and after another gratifying display of nautical skill, at 8 o’clock the matter finished by Mr. Parker’s Ada winning the Cup, and Mr. Turner’s Invincible the second Prize of 2 sovereigns. | For the Prize for six-oared Boats, the Red Rover, J. B. Sanders, Esq., Exeter, only was entered, and consequently there was no Race. | Nothing could exceed the urbanity and gentlemanly conduct of the Committee, and the most active proceedings were set on foot, for the Starcross and Exe Regatta of next year.

  • 1835 Western Times, 11 July 1835 (William died in May 1835 and it was his successor as Earl of Devon who is named in this advertisement as patron):

Starcross and Exe Regatta. | The Starcross and Exe Regatta will take place on Thursday, the 6th of August, 1835; when Three Silver Cups, and several other prizes will be contended for | Patron. | The Right Hon. The Earl of Devon. | Lady Patroness. | Lady Duntze. | Stewards. | Samuel Trehawke Kekewich Esq. | Captain Halstead, R. N. | James Samuel Pitman, Esq. | Further Particulars will be given in a Future Advertisement. | Committee Room, Courtenay Arms, | Starcross, July 9th, 1833.

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Page history

  • 2025 March 10: first published online.
  • 2025 September 10: 1775, Trewman’s Exeter Flying Post item added.