The more traditional event spectators at the Head of the Charles Regatta have their spots along the banks of the Charles, on docks and on the car bridges crossing from Cambridge. From almost any spot you hear the banter of the coxes, the cutting of the water by oars, or the slapping of the water when some of the boats made their way to the starting line.

Thomas Doggett, an Irish comedian and joint manager of the Drury Lane Theatre, provided in his will dated 10th September 1721, for a prize of a coat and silver badge to be rowed for annually by six watermen within a year of completing their apprenticeships. As a real test of stay and endurance, the race used to be rowed in heavy old wherries which had to be pulled up against the ebb tide - sometimes it took contestants nearly two hours to row the distance! The race soon became open to abuses as contestants realized the advantages of using lighter undersized vessels. In some instances riotous behavior was reported between competitors. In 1723, one of the leaders of the race had his “scull knocked away and a big boat rowed across his bows".

The Head of the Charles Regatta is the world's largest two-day rowing event. The first race took place October 16, 1965. In its 40-year history, the race has grown into a regatta which draws over 300,000 fans and over 5,400 athletes from around the world.

For more pictures from Rowing Regatta read: Rowing boats (or similar vessels) have been around for centuries.

And for more Rowing Lore read: The last boat standing was referred to as the "head of the river."

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I am by no means ready to die! So, with that fact established, let's begin at the beginning: See links for all the Genesis posts to date: Genesis Through My Eyes

In my not too distant past, if I were to see a street person, a bum, sleeping in a door front or on a park bench, I would have kept my distance and perhaps shrugged my shoulders.: He had the "smarts" to ask someone where to go, I didn't

Waldo County, situated in mid-coast Maine along scenic Penobscot Bay, has genuine New England character evidenced by working port towns and quaint rural villages. Visitors are awed by the area's unspoiled beauty. From striking coastal views to sweeping mountain vistas, dramatic natural settings abound. In addition great care has been taken to preserve and refurbish numerous historic landmarks, homes and buildings. Consequently, the Maine of yesteryear is still found here.

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