Schuylkill Navy of Philadelphia.

Amateur, competitive rowing has existed on the Schuylkill River in Philadelphia since the eighteenth century. The sport gained in popularity throughout the nineteenth century, particularly after 1822, when the construction of a dam across the river created a type of “pool” and, in turn, optimal rowing conditions.

The Schuylkill Navy of Philadelphia was founded in 1858. It is the oldest amateur athletic governing body in the United States. By charter, "[the Schuylkill Navy’s] object is to secure united action among the several Clubs and to promote amateurism on the Schuylkill River."

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