The records of the Scotch division prior to 1846 were unfortunately destroyed by an accident some years ago. The minute-book of the Irish division has, however, survived. From it we find that at a meeting of gentlemen interested in the foundation of the Northern Yacht Club, held at Belfast on November 5, 1824, it was resolved 'that the establishment of a yacht club is a highly desirable object.' A committee was accordingly appointed to that end, Mr. Robert Thomson being requested to act as secretary, and at a general meeting held April 8, 1825, Mr. John Allan of Glasgow accepted the post of secretary for the Clyde. At a general meeting at Belfast May 2, 1825, the secretary was instructed to write to Mr. Allan, to consult with the Scotch members and fix with them the place of rendezvous for the first general meeting of the boats of the club. The date arranged was the first Monday in June, and the Irish members declared that they were ready to meet the Scotch members 'in any part of the Clyde' on that day. The club was known as the Northern Yacht Club. There is no record in the minute-book of the burgee adopted, but in an old picture, now in the club-house at Rothesay, the yachts are shown cruising off Garroch Head, in the Clyde, with red ensigns, the burgee also red, with the letters N.Y.C. in white. The present secretary has courteously sent a photograph of this picture, also of the flags, as an historical contribution. The first prizes offered were for pulling (rowing) matches to take place in Ireland. The Marquis of Donegall was the first President of the club, and Mr. Thos. Pottinger, Admiral for 1825. [Illustration: Royal Northern flags.] The full dress of the club consisted of a blue coat with crimson silk lining, with 'Marall's' vest, white or black pantaloons or breeches, and silk stockings to correspond. Members who appeared at the dinners of the club without this dress were fined 10s. At a general meeting held at Greenock, on August 3, 1825, Mr. James Hamilton, of Holmhead, was appointed Admiral for the ensuing year. In May 1826, at Belfast, the yachts were divided into three classes:-- 1st class over 30 tons register 2nd " " 15 " " 3rd " under 15 " " The first regatta took place at Belfast, June 20, 21, 22, and on June 23 pulling races were rowed by members and their friends. On June 24 the yachts were to sail together 'in a fleet,' and 'manoeuvre under the directions of the Admiral.' This is quite an echo of the Cork Water 1720 Club. A proposal of the Scottish members to separate the Club into two distinct branches was agreed to on May 16, 1827. It was probably after this date that each division had a distinguishing burgee; from an old print of these flags now in the club-house at Rothesay, the Irish division seems to have flown a red burgee with a harp, the Scottish division being distinguished by a lion in white.