Valley Heritage Driving Tour

Yale Boat House

Frank Gates of Derby undertook the challenge to induce Yale to bring its rowing activities to Derby, first in lower Derby near Burtville, and later on Lake Housatonic, above the dam starting in 1918. Mr. Gates managed to convince Yale's British Head Coach, Guy Nickalls, of the suitability of the Housatonic for his Crews. In 1918, the first intercollegiate race was held on the lake with Yale and Harvard competing.

At the same time, the Robert Cooke Boathouse was dedicated in honor of one of Yale's famous rowing coaches.

The Gilder Boathouse pictured was completed and dedicated in October 2000. This world class rowing facility is a magnificent architectural achievement and ushers in a whole new era of excellence for Yale rowing.

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