The History of North End Boat Club

Eben Manson Shipyard where the North End Boat Club is now located. On the left is the launching of Eustice in 1862, a 236 ton schooner. On the right is ship Portlaw, still under construction, at 1280 tons.
Orion Hills, Fred Ray, Edward Sargent, Roscoe Hills, Ed Tilton, Bert Moore, 1905-1910 (est.)
Will Remington, 1913. Photo by CD Howard Photography, Boardman St Newburyport.
North End Boat Club, 1965
Original North End Boat Club boathouse, 1897
North End Boat Club clubhouse. No electricity or indoor plumbing, 1908.
Photo by William Brock, Sunday Sept. 26, 1909 at Pine Island, during a club outing.
Back row (L>R): Orion Hills, Fred Hopkins, George Rollings, George Henderson, Phil Bucknelly, Unknown, Charline Chaddey, Detre Brock, John Brock, unk Brandt, George Hatch; Front row (L>R): Otto Pearson, George Story, unk Safford, Sean Carroll, John Srairs, Edgar Ross, Matt Frost, Charles Lurs, Frank Sampson, Al Thurlow. North End Boat Club party, June 21, 1908.

The North End Boat Club was established in 1895, during a period when Newburyport’s economy was diversifying. While the city remained deeply connected to its maritime heritage, seafaring and shipbuilding were no longer the dominant industries.

Situated along the Merrimack River, the club emerged from the shipbuilding boom of the mid-1800s. Its land was once home to the Eben Manson Shipyard, which ceased operations in 1875. Following the shipyard’s closure, the property briefly housed a silver factory. A few years later, the North End Boat Club was established, acquiring the land from the factory, which was subsequently demolished. To connect Merrimac Street to the waterfront, Manson Road was constructed.

Fourteen founding members chartered the club to promote yachting and sports in the area, a mission that endures today. Over the years, the membership roster has reflected a diverse array of professions. In 1913, members included ice dealers, engineers, machinists, silversmiths, shoe-cutters, undertakers, carpenters, cabinet makers, boat-builders, bakers, and painters. True to its origins, the North End Boat Club was considered a “working man’s club.” While the professions have evolved, the club’s sense of history and community remains steadfast.

In 1963, the original clubhouse was destroyed by fire but was rebuilt, resulting in the structure that stands today.

The North End Boat Club is far more than just a picturesque spot on the Merrimack River. It embodies a rich history, a strong sense of community, and a shared passion for the water. For generations, members and guests have come together here to embrace boating, fishing, relaxation, and camaraderie. In doing so, they have upheld the club’s legacy as a vibrant and welcoming community—a cherished institution that remains an integral part of Newburyport’s rich maritime heritage.

To learn more about our history, ask about our “Centennial Celebration Book” published in 1995, where much of NEBC’s history is recalled and documented.