August 8, 1849

Evening Picayune - Friday, August 10, 1849 - p2 col 5

THE REGATTA AT BILOXI

Biloxi, August 9, 1849

Yesterday, I informed you of the result of the sailing matches here, and according to promise I now send further particulars with the official report of the judges.

Record of Race

There were eighteen boats in the regatta divided into two classes, as follows: First class--Robert Morris, Mary Ann, Pilgram, Coralie, Eliza Riddle, Undine, Fashion, Rigolet, Laura, Flint and J.L. Titus. Second Class--Rover, Mary Baker, Creole, Grey Eagle, Laura, Mary Bella and Harry Hill.

The starting point was from the Pier head, which stands out from the Lighthouse nearly a mile. From this pint the course of sailing was triangular, the first stretch being five miles in a Southeast course, then five miles due West, and home in a Northeast direction, five miles more.

The first race was between the second class boats, which started at the firing of a gun at 35 minutes past 12 o'clock, for the second prize, a rich silver goblet.

The second race--that between the first class boats for the first prize, a magnificent silver pitcher--was commenced at 3 minutes of 2 o'clock, P.M., just as the leading boat of the second class had turned the first flag boat, according to previous arrangement. So much for preliminaries.

Sightseers on Steamers

The sailing was truly beautiful, and was witnessed by hundreds of ladies and gentlemen. You would be perfectly amazed could you see anything like the excitement which prevailed.