The Oshkosh Public Museum recently shared a photo on its Facebook page that immediately caught the attention of Lake Winnebago stern-steerer sailor Andy Gratton. He quickly identified the boats:
“The closest boat is the MISS MADISON from Madison and still exists at the Iceboating Foundation in Madison with two other historic boats. I am fairly certain the second boat is the PRINCESS II, also from Madison, owed by Emil Fauerbach. The furthest boat is the FLYING DUTCHEMEN, originally owned by the Van Dyke brothers of Milwaukee. John Buckstaff acquired the boat at some time and frequently raced it. That boat is currently on the ice in front of the Fond du Lac Yacht Club. owned by Dave Lallier and Dave Whealon.”
Through further digging, ice sailing history expert Henry Bossett tracked down a newspaper article that aligns with the era and context of the photo. It’s likely from the 1930 Hearst Trophy Regatta on Lake Winnebago. In this event, Buckstaff and his crew, sailing FLYING DUTCHMEN , defended and won the trophy in light air conditions. MISS MADISON appears largely unchanged and has now joined the collection of historic iceboats at the Iceboat Foundation. As for PRINCESS II, the mystery of her fate remains unsolved.
Speaking of Tim McCormick in the previous post, this beautiful pencil sketch, created by Greg Whitehorse, captures Tim sailing his Renegade AIM on Lake Monona. Thank you, Greg, for this thoughtful piece of art that keeps Tim’s memory alive.
What an incredible day of racing! High winds high speeds! Monster thanks to Daniel Hearn and Don Anderson. Many iceboat clubs and and boat divisions fronted up! Great to see the German DN racers, Anja and Holger! Thanks to all the iceboat pilots that helped pronouns M165 and M197 getting us on and off the ice!
4LIYC Scoring
4LIYC Renegader Damien Luyet has graciously volunteered to take on the role of club scorer. Let’s take a moment to remember Tim McCormick, who managed the club scoring for many years with dedication. Tim’s contributions to the club were invaluable, and we deeply feel his absence. We are grateful to Damien for stepping into this role and continuing the tradition of maintaining our race results. Scores from recent races should be posted soon—stay tuned!
Via Wisconsin Stern Steerer Association Secretary/Treasurer Andy Gratton:
The Wisconsin Stern Steering Association regatta has been postponed to February 1 and 2. The next update will be Sunday, January 25. Check back here at that time. The Northwest Ice Yacht Association regatta takes precedence.
Nite Nationals has been Tentatively Called ON for January 25-26, 2025
Your Nite Board will be looking at a few different venues this week to make sure we have the best possible ice for our regatta.
We will be continually watching the weather patterns and we will make the final call by Noon on Thursday . At that time we will provide further launch, hotel and regatta details.
Continue to monitor Facebook Group, the Nite Website, and your email for further communication.
Via Northwest Ice Yachting Association Secretary/Treasurer Steve Schalk:
The 2025 NIYA Regatta is called on for Fond Du Lac, January 24th, 25th and 26th, with the final call at noon Wednesday January 22nd.
The ice condition is excellent and the wind and temperature appear to be cooperating – pretty much optimal in all respects for an epic Northwest Championship. Next update: Wednesday, January 22 by noon.
Launch will be drive-on at the Sunset Bar. Head north at least 1/2 mile to the mooring area. The mooring is north to keep away from the motorcycle racing course that will be active on the weekend.
