Their full potential. Southampton Coalporters Amateur Rowing Club & Hall Hire, founded in 1875, is the epitome of such a club. Situated adjacent to Northam Bridge in Southampton, Hampshire, UK, Coalporters is not only the oldest but also the most established rowing club in the city.
The club takes pride in its rich history and deep-rooted connexion to the local community. Its name, Coalporters, pays homage to the rowers who transported coal to visiting ships on the River Itchen. These workers formed the club to showcase their skills in competition against other rowing enthusiasts.
In fact, early on in its existence, Coalporters made a name for itself by defeating a previously undefeated racing crew from the visiting American Navy in 1884. Despite being outnumbered, the club's determination and prowess propelled them to victory, even racing in a disused service cutter from the condemned stores in Portsmouth Dockyard. This victory led to a rematch, in which Coalporters triumphed once again.
Over the years, Coalporters has grown in stature and gained recognition within the rowing circuit, locally and nationally. Since 1960, the club has called its current site beside Northam Bridge home. In 2022, the club underwent extensive changes, including the opening of a new boat storage facility and a comprehensive refurbishment of the clubhouse. These updates not only make the club more environmentally efficient but also ensure that it remains a modern and welcoming venue for years to come.
In addition to its passion for rowing, Southampton Coalporters ARC also offers hall hire facilities. Their hall provides a versatile space suitable for various events, including parties, meetings, and community gatherings. By hiring the hall, individuals, and organisations can support the club and contribute to its ongoing mission to serve amateur rowing and the community of Southampton.
Coalporters is more than just a rowing club it's a place where rowers of all ages and experience levels can come together to pursue their love for the sport. With expert guidance and a sense of camaraderie, the club ensures that all rowers, from novices to seasoned athletes, can thrive and achieve their goals on the water.
Whether you're a seasoned rower or someone interested in exploring the world of rowing, Southampton Coalporters ARC welcomes you with open arms. Joining Coalies means becoming part of a community that lives and breathes rowing, where members support and inspire each other to reach new heights. To learn more about membership fees and benefits, visit the Club Hub & Membership Portal, which redirects to British Rowing.
Southampton Coalporters ARC is not just a rowing club it's a testament to the power of passion, history, and community.