The members of the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club were united in their decision to abandon the Erith Clubhouse which had been their base since shortly after the founding of the Club in 1872. There was, however, discussion and dissent concerning the location for the next clubhouse.
On hearing the news of the agreement with the South Eastern Railway Company for the erection and tenancy of a clubhouse at Port Victoria, 'The Yachtsman' proclaimed that the proposals seemed highly advantageous to the Club, continuing, "and we understand embrace greatly improved railway facilities. The change, all things considered, should be very desirable for there is no comparison between Erith and Port Victoria as yachting stations either for cruising or racing".
The late nineteenth century was indeed a time of furious railway development; but the railway lines spreading along the north Kent coast, offering opportunities for both improved business and leisure activities were also developing in Essex, in particular along the Crouch valley and some enterprising members of the Royal Corinthian bought their tickets from Liverpool Street Station to Burnham-on-Crouch, in case that riverside town should also offer attractions.
To be continued...
