The Kananook, 26ft., quarter - deck, centre - board boat, hails from Melbourne, where she was first known to us as the ' Mayflower,' successfully competing at the Victoria Regatta Carnival, in November, 1888. On arrival here, her name was altered, and although taking part in a number of Sydney and Botany races, she has not been victorious.
Her owner is Mr. Mark Foy, the well-known draper of this city, who has enrolled the ' Kananook ' in the Sydney Amateur, Port Jackson, East Sydney, and Botany Sailing Clubs. AQUATICS. (1891, April 11). Illustrated Sydney News (NSW : 1853 - 1872), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article63616436
Mark Foy - Intercolonial Challenge Cup, 1898
Mark Foy
15 February 1865 - 15 November 1950
In the life of Mark Foy is seen some of our pioneer Australian spirit, our impetus to get up and go, to create new frontiers where old class systems tried to place obstacles by establishing sailing for all, especially the working man, and being the founder of the Sydney Flying Squadron in 1890 (some sources state it was 1891, others cite 1892) as well as introducing handicap racing, which was originally referred to as the 'Mark Foy System';
The Columnist Neptune encouraged the club to support the new Mark Foy system. Named for the Australian who invented it, this system of staggered start times according to handicaps, so that participants and spectators know exactly where the boats place without having to wait for the handicappers' report; Notes by "Neptune.". (1890, March 1). Australian Town and Country Journal (NSW : 1870 - 1907), p. 38. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article71108468
His contribution to sailing has resulted in his being inducted into Australian Sailing's Hall of Fame in October 2019.
Mr. Foy exemplified how business can be combined with pleasure and sportsmanship, whichever area or state of Australia you may be in, as the list of Mark Foy Cups or championships run in sailing and horse racing extended from Queensland to Western Australia and follows a pattern of introduction that aligns his setting up and opening of further Mark Foy stores in these same areas. Mark Foy is also among the first people on record to ensure Pittwater’s beautiful spotted gums stayed where they belong;
SPOTTED GUMS AT BAYVIEW.
Bayview, one of the most delightful of the many beauty spots round the waterfront at Pittwater, is more beautiful than usual today because of the presence of numbers of the young and middle-aged spotted gums on the roadside. Anyone, who has an eye for a tree trunk and a shapely headpiece, should see these hardwoods at work on their home holdings, over which Mr. Mark Foy and his neighbours hold sway. The grown trees are 30 and 40 feet in the barrel, and are quite perpendicular. All the young stock are lighter in body and shorter as well, but even the babies among these yellow-stemmed trees are as straight as a plumb line. Young trunks and old trunks, too, are coloured with unbroken bark of yellow-green pastel shade, blotched with spots of dull mauve, which clearly indicate the family to which they all belong. Only lately they were engaged in dropping their old bark in readiness for the work which has to be done during the year.
Thanks to Mr. Foy, Mr. Graham, Mr. Sinclair, and to the other tree lovers of Bayview, who are bent on preserving these native timber trees, visitors are able to enjoy from the roadside pictures which are too seldom seen on or near an outer suburban highway. In too many places all the native trees are cut down to make room for favourites from other continents. None of the Imported trees compare with those of our own wild land. Bayview's spotted gums stand head and shoulders above anything near them. While their present owners have power to protect them they are safe from the axemen. Recently, some splendid trees were taken off the roadside to make room for the electric light wires. Other trees were lopped or shortened for the same purpose. Many a bayside resident was sorry to see that work done. However, the chopping could not well have been avoided. The men who handled those spotted gums did their work feelingly, and saved every tree they could. SPOTTED GUMS AT BAYVIEW. (1930, January 3). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16615090
Mark Foy had a residence in Pittwater called 'The Cabin' at 28 Bay View Road before this access was renamed 'Pittwater Road' by Warringah Council. Other family members also purchased property in Pittwater. His youngest sister Sophie, through her marriage to James Joseph Smith, had also been a visitor to Pittwater and the family had a property called 'Trincomalee' at Elvina Bay, while sister Alice married James Joseph Macken, a family still well known here, who have been associated with Collaroy and Coasters for many decades.
IN consequence of leaving for Algiers, Mr. Mark Foy's residence, EUMEMMERING HALL, Bellevue Hill, is to Let on lease for a term of 5 years: also a water-frontage seaside Residence, THE CABIN, Bayview, Pittwater, 6 rooms, motor garage, and boathouse and baths. SHELEAGH COTTAGE, Medlow Bath, tho mosthandsome cottage on the Blue Mountains, electriclight and water laid on, beautifully furnished', also GLENARA COTTAGE, Medlow Bath, unfurnished, anda dwelling-house at Blackheath, six rooms, unfurnished. THE BUNGALOW, In KANIMBLA VALLEY, also STOEWER OFFICE, 12 City road. Full particulars of all these propcrties at HOOAN'S KIOSK, VICTORIA ARCADE.Opposite the Australia Hotel. Advertising. (1914, April 11). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 25. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15500675
This 'early departure to Europe', and a leasing of his properties at that time due to this, gives an insight into this list:
MR MARK FOYS PROPERTIES
The following places are to Let on Lease -
EUMEMMERING HALL BELLEVUE HILL,
THE CABIN BAYVIEW, PITTWATER.
Large Water frontage Dwelling; at NEWPORT
LARGE SHOP, 12 City road near Grace Bros
SHEILAH COTTAGE, MEDLOW BATH.
GLENARA COTTAGE, MEDLOW BATH
LARGE STABLES, MEDLOW BATH
THE VALLEY FARM, MEDLOW BATH.
DWELLING HOUSE near station BLACKHEATH.
BUISINESS PREMISES, near Elizabeth street – suitable for a Dentist
Full particulars, HOGANS “THE KIOSK”, VICTORIA ARCADE. Advertising (1914, June 17). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15516559
Medlow Bath stables, New South Wales, courtesy National Library of Australia, image no.: nla.obj-146216810-1, [ca. 1910]
Mark Foy, circa 1910
Mark Foy continued to travel every year. World events which affected the high seas on one occasion meeting his path mid-voyage on the aforementioned trip:;MR. MARK FOY A PRISONER. A letter received in Sydney from a German resident at Yap Island, near Carolines, stated Mr. Mark Foy, of Mark Foy Ltd. was a prisoner there MR. MARK FOY A PRISONER. (1914, October 9). Bendigo Advertiser (Vic. : 1855 - 1918), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article90727010 and;
MR. MARK FOY. PRISONER OF WAR Mr. Mark Foy, who recently left Sydney on a pleasure trip to Japan, has had a novel and exciting experience. He left Sydney in a German mail steamer, and while the vessel was on the Australian coast war was declared between England and Germany. The vessel immediately altered her course, and the passengers, much to their surprise, were landed at Rabaul, in New Britain, where they had to shift for themselves as best they could. Mr. Foy remained on the Island some days, and, finding it impossible to get away by other means, chartered a small vessel with the assistance of other passengers in which they proposed to make for the Philippine Islands. Their troubles were not at an end, however, for their new craft struck a reef, and was wrecked. The passengers and crew were picked up by a passing vessel and conveyed to Yap. Mr. Foy cabled to Sydney from Yap, stating that he was well. A letter however, was received in Sydney a couple of days ago from a German source stating that Mr. Foy was detained as a prisoner of war, together with the British Consul, and the pair of them had been placed on a small island near Yap. It is likely, however, that Mr. Foy has since been released, for the Japanese have taken possession of Yap, and that he will be able to continue his voyage to the East or return to Sydney. MR. MARK FOY. (1914, October 10). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 12. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15537531
Mr Foy brought cars and car racing to Australia, was a proponent of motor boats and cruisers, and these were just a few of the investments he made in Australia. The list of health initiatives he contributed large sums to reflects early tragedy in his own life as much as a few personal health scares and an unceasing love of world wide travel paralleled bringing the latest and best back to Australia when people journeyed by ship.
A few motor launch insights:
AN AQUATIC FUNERAL.
(For letterpress see "Yachting.")
Mr. Mark Foy's Launch Leading the Fleet. 2.-The Steamer Carrying the Coffin, Clark Island. 3,-Landing at Watson's Bay. 4.-The Procession of Sailing Boats Down the Harbor.
The members of the Sydney Flying Squadron have every reason to be pleased with the success which attended their efforts on Sunday afternoon, to mark, by means of an aquatic funeral, the esteem in which.they held an old comrade, Mr. A. E. G. Thomas, who died at Samarai, New Guinea, twelve months ago. The remains were brought to Sydney for interment, and the members of the squadron, of which Mr. Thomas had been secretary for a number of years (some articles on this funeral state he helped Mark Foy found the club), were determined to mark their appreciation of the great assistance he had been in bringing it to its present successful position, by according his remains a unique and at the -same time a distinctly appropriate funeral. The aquatic ceremony of Sunday afternoon was the first of its kind that has ever taken place on the. waters of Port Jackson. Those who witnessed it, whether from steamers, sailing boats, or the shore, must have been strongly impressed with the picturesqueness of the solemn procession.
The steamer Agenoria with the coffin and. relatives of; the deceased left Circular Quay about 2 o'clock, proceeding to Clark Island, in the vicinity of which the various craft taking part had been notified to assemble in order to take up the positions allotted to them in the procession. The owners and crews made a liberal response to the call for their attendance, for between 80 and 100 sailing-boats of all classes took part in the funeral, each bearing the Sydney Flying Squadron colors carried halfway up the after leach of the mainsail. ' The steamer Garnet left the Quay shortly after the Agenoria, having on board a full complement of members and friends of the squadron. Mr. Mark Foy, commodore of the S.F. Squadron, attended in his launch Marionette.
A number of sailing boats other than those belonging to the squadron took part, also.a number of launches, including those belonging to Mr. H. C. Pritchard, on which members of the press and photographers were accommodated by Mr. W. Holmes. The cortege left Clark Island about a quarter to 3, the steamer Agenoria leading the way, the sailing boats following in her wake. The procession passed Shark Island on the southern side, and went in stays, and stood over to Taylor Bay Point, where they came about again, and then lay a course for "Watson's Bay, the wharf being reached shortly after 4 o'clock. ... An Aquatic Funeral. (1901, October 19). Australian Town and Country Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1870 - 1907), p. 23. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article71473386
Marionette, circa 1901, from ANMM Collection, gift of Mary Shaw
Internal combustion driven launch Marionette being loaded, circa 1901, from ANMM Collection, gift of Mary Shaw
MOTORING 'ON THE WATER.'
The latest information received in Adelaide from England states that the King who has always taken a keen interest in motoring on land, has recently entered with enthusiasm on the new development of the motor, which is seen now on the waters along the English coasts. There does not seem to be any valid reason why South Australians should not enter heartily into the same sport, for there is ample sea space to practise on round the shore from Brighton to Largs Bay, while it is a very simple matter to run the motors into safe harbor when rough weather threatens. In European waters the oil launch-a dainty looking boat, containing an engine similar to that of the best French motor cars, capable of speeds running from ten miles up to 30 miles an hour-has long been popular, while of late years its vogue has almost rivalled that of the motor cars.
In Sydney the European fashion has already been largely followed, and the Daily Telegraph states that there are today 300 oil launches on "the beautiful harbor." Mr. Mark Foy, a great patron of automobilism, was among the pioneers of the sport there. TOPICS OF THE DAY. (1904, September 21). The Advertiser(Adelaide, SA : 1889 - 1931), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article5007959
The note that resonates strongest from masses of material is a love of sailing and his favourite vessel, the Flying Fish, an earlier catamaran which he tried to find or rebuild once she disappeared.
The picture at left, courtesy of the Australian National Maritime Museum and dated 1898, is one version of this favourite.
An article regarding her modifications from a gentleman known only as 'Clipper', who claims to have witnessed a SFS meeting, may be found in the Australian Historical Sailing Skiff Association Inc. August Newsletter 2012 HERE
Sailing Man's Search For Freak Racer
The old racing 24-footer Flying Fish is being anxiously sought by the well-known sailing enthusiast Mr. Mark Foy.
If the hull can be found, even in a derelict condition, Mr. Foy plans to build a big racer, 60ft long, on the same lines. For some time he has been advertising a reward of £5 for news of the boat's whereabouts. Several reports that she was at George's River, and had become a houseboat, have proved untrue. The whereabouts of Flying Fish is still a mystery.
Sailing veteran and boatbuilder Peter Cowie believes the lost boat will never be found. Some years ago the late Jack Gorman told him Flying Fish broke from her moorings at Pittwater and drifted out to sea. Mr. Foy, who gave Gorman the freak racer nearly 50 years ago, said last night that this explanation was quite plausible.
He claims that Flying Fish had an amazing turn of speed on a beam wind. She often sailed past Manly ferries, and out-distanced all-comers on the harbour. Shortened by two feet to enter an ocean race Flying Fish won it by about three miles, according to Mr.Foy. The craft was of unorthodox build. She was actually two boats, each of 2ft 3in beam, bolted together by two cross pieces, one at the mast and one further aft. Flying Fish carried a crew of 20. She was rigged with a French lug sail and overall measured 60ft from bowsprit to tip of bumpkin. Mr. Foy is confident that if the Flying Fish could be found and reproduced with a 60ft hull the new boat would be a record-breaker.
''She was perfectly balanced," he declares.
A copy named the Flying Fox did not have the same balance and proved a complete failure. Mr. Foy is dubious about the success of any other attempts to duplicate the performance of the craft without her exact dimensions. Sailing Man's Search For Freak Racer. (1946, February 26).The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article27919832
Mark Foy with family and friends on catamaran Flying Fish, 1890s - ANMM Collection, gift from Mary Shaw.
Mark Foy's Flying Fish, from ANMM collection, gift from Mary Shaw
Mark Foy was born at Bendigo on February 15th 1865 to Mark Foy and Mary (nee Macken). His father, a draper in his former home of Dublin, had moved to Melbourne by 1870 and set up a store in Smith Street, Collingwood that prospered and had become big enough to occupy six shops by 1880. He was already a keen sportsman winning medals in the United States of America for rifle shooting.
At the age of 19, in 1884, he moved to Sydney with older brothers Francis and Hugh Victor, with sisters Alice and Sophie included, to set up their own store. The stories of how this came about are many. One of them;
Fateful Toss By A. L. BRIENT . IN HIS ARTICLE on the origin of some of Melbourne's famous old stores (Week-end Magazine, 2/4/49), Ron Testro mentions the circumstances in which the Foy and Gibson partnership was dissolved. As two of Australia's leaders in the retail drapery trade were concerned, the story seems worth telling in greater detail. William Gibson; by the way, was a comparative latecomer into the business, which had been established by Mark Foy in the Victorian gold-digging days, first at Bendigo, afterwards extending to Greytown and Castlemaine (in partnership with a Mr Bentley), and finally to Smith st, Collingwood (1868). It was in Collingwood that Mark Foy's elder son, Francis, grew to manhood, and during his father's declining years (he died in 1882 while on a health trip in USA), became responsible for the conduct of the business.
It was in this period that William Gibson, a Scottish commercial traveller, with capital to invest on behalf of his uncle, Robert Dick, well-known Glasgow leather belt manufacturer, became a partner. Then something entirely unpredictable happened. While Francis Foy was absent on a prolonged buying mission, William Gibson, fascinated by the overhead cash-carrier system then coming into favour, installed one in the Smith st premises as a surprise for his partner on his return. However, it was with a wry sort of smile that Francis Foy beheld the new contraption. It was not because he was opposed to innovations. On the contrary, his reputation was that of a man ever on the look-out for new ideas in business. It was that he had not been consulted on a major item of expenditure.
THEN HE DECIDED that Smith st could not hold both Gibson and himself. So it was that each partner agreed to write down his valuation of the share he held in the business, and decide who should buy the other out on the toss of a coin. Francis Foy never baulked at risks. He won the toss. Gibson's disappointment was manifest in his face, although he was prepared to stand by the bargain. Francis Foy, son of an emotional Irish mother and a mercurial French father, relented. "Consider you've won," he exclaimed. "I will take your chance, sell at the figure I've given (£8,000), and go to Sydney." Conservative estimates at the time were that the amount should have been more like £60,000. Nevertheless, Francis Foy left Smith st, never to return (although a regular visitor to the Melbourne Cup meeting),opened in Oxford st, Sydney, under his father's original sign, "Mark Foy," and in 20 years made £1 million. Today, the business is carried on in palatial premises in Liver-pool st. Francis Foy died in 1918, in the Sydney express, returning from the Melbourne Cup of that year. William Gibson did not forsake his old partner during the difficult period of finding a footing in Sydney. He was always ready to lend an expert or two from his Smith st staff, to tide over a difficulty in the new city. I have mentioned Francis Foy's French ancestry. His paternal grandfather, a stubborn monarchist, fled from Paris during the French Revolution, and acquired a flour milling business and a fortune in Ireland, but lost all when his bank failed. Fateful Toss. (1949, June 18). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1956), p. 5 Supplement: The Argus Week-End Magazine. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article22735875
MR. MARK FOY'S NEW DRAPERY ESTABLISHMENT, OXFORD STREET, SYDNEY. (1885, October 24). Illustrated Sydney News (NSW : 1853 - 1872), p. 16. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article64036628 and Mr. Mark Foy's Drapery Establishment,
MOST old Victorians, or even those who have made only occasional visits to Melbourne, will remember the establishment of Mr. Mark Foy, in Collingwood. This enterprising gentleman made it amongst the most famous places of business in the southern city or its suburbs, and its proprietor was as widely known as he was generally respected. The firm have now opened an establishment of a similar kind in Oxford Street, Sydney. The new premises have just been completed, and business is now in full swing. Our illustration gives a capital and graphic idea of the interior of this extensive and handsomely fitted establishment, which, during the afternoons and hours when ladies usually indulge in the amiable weakness of shopping, is a. perfect beehive of life and activity. We have no doubt the enterprising proprietors will reap the full reward of their energy, capital, and farsightedness in their new venture. , Mr. Mark Foy's Drapery Establishment. (1885, October 24).Illustrated Sydney News (NSW : 1853 - 1872), p. 13. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article64036651
Mark Foy senior, after whom this store was named, to honour him, actually died in 1884:
FOY.—On the 14th ult., at San Francisco, of Bright's disease, Mark Foy, J.P., eldest surviving son of the late Mark Foy, Esq., Moystown Mills, King's County, Ireland. Requiescat in pace. Family Notices (1884, February 23). The Australasian (Melbourne, Vic. : 1864 - 1946), p. 10 (AUSTRALASIAN SUPPLEMENT). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article138650245
FOY –In loving remembrance of Mark Foy, JP, Collingwood, who died of Brights disease and gangrene of the leg at San Francisco, on the 14th of January, 1831, aged 54 years. Family Notices. (1885, January 14). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1956), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article6065050
FOY.—In loving remembrance of Mark Foy, J.P., Collingwood, who died of Bright's disease, on the 14th January, 1884, at San Francisco, aged 54. Family Notices. (1886, January 14). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1956), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article6080307
These notices would have been placed by Mark Foy senior's second wife Catherine (nee Power);
In the Equity Court on Wednesday last, before His Honor Mr. Justice Molesworth, an action of the Trustees, Executors, and Agency Company, Limited, v. Foy, was heard. The plaintiffs were executors of the will of the late Mr. Mark Foy, draper, of Smith-street, Collingwood, and the defendants, Mrs. Catherine Foy, widow of the testator, and Maximilian John Foy, his infant son, now aged three years, who was represented by Mr. David Power (name of both father and brother of Catherine)as guardian ad litem. The deceased died on the 14th of January, 1884, at San Francisco, California, leaving a will executed at the same place on the 13th December, 1883. Mrs. Catherine Foy was the second wife of the testator, and the infant defendant is his only child by her. The present action was brought to have the will of the testator construed by the court.
Mr. Foy (Snr.) by his will bequeathed sums of £5 to his daughter, Mary Anne Foy, and £500 to his sister, Miss H. F. Foy, of Bourke-street, Melbourne. He then directed that the residue of his estate should be held in trust by the widow for her child and herself, share and share alike, but provided that in the event of the widow marrying again, the whole of the residue should go to the child. He explained that he did not make any provision by his will for his children, Francis Foy, Mark Foy, Hugh Victor Foy, Alice Foy, and Sophie Foy, because he had already provided for them otherwise. The deceased appointed the plaintiffs and his widow executors and executrix of his will, but the latter renounced, and probate was granted to the company alone. The deceased left real property of the value of.£1696, and personal property of the value of £14,400. His debts amounted to £881.The immediate object of the present action was to ascertain from the Court what was to be done with the corpus of the widow's half of the residue. It was pointed out on behalf of the plaintiffs that if she got possession of it she might spend it and then marry again, when the money could not be recovered from her. On behalf of the widow it was submitted that she was entitled to the possession and absolute control of one-half share of the corpus, and that as to that share no trustee should be appointed. The moiety claimed by Mrs. Foy amounts to about £7607. Mr. Higgins, instructed by Messrs. Davies and Campbell, appeared for the plaintiffs; Dr. M'Inerney, instructed by Mr. Walter Davies, for the defendant, Mrs. Foy; and Mr. Campbell, instructed by Mr. C. S. Price, for the infant defendant. His Honor reserved judgment. LOCAL BUILDING SOCIETY, BRUNSWICK. (1884, October 25). Mercury and Weekly Courier (Vic. : 1878 - 1903), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article59752597
From the beginning the store was a moneymaker. Indeed on the opening day police had to be called to disperse the crowds in Oxford Street waiting to enter. Trouble was they were holding up the steam trams. The success of Mark Foy's was mainly due to Francis Foy's business ability and his flair for the unusual.
Instead of periodical sales like other stores he advertised all over Sydney: "Foy's fair is now on." He also invented the slogan: "Aim straight fore Mark Foy's." When balloon ascents were making headlines in Sydney making headlines in Sydney Francis Foy hired one of the balloonists to take off from Hyde Park near his shop. But the balloon got away and wrapped itself round a tower on top of his competitor. Anthony Hordern's in the Haymarket. Old Samuel Hordern was furious, especially when he saw the slogan on the baloon's side: "Aim straight for Mark Foy's."
Mark Foy's developed into a department store and early in the 1900s it was obvious new and bigger premises were essential. Francis Foy had his eye on the island block bounded by Elizabeth , Liverpool, Castlereagh and Goulburn Streets, then a ramshackle warren of small shops, cheap cafes, Chinese herbalists and animal dealers.
There were 15 separate pieces of land in the block and Foy had 15 different people quietly buying them up on his behalf so he got the whole block at a remarkably cheap price ranging from $24 to $40 a foot. Once he had the land Foy took an architect overseas with him to inspect the world's great department stores. Eventually they decided to built on similar lines to the famous Bon Marche in Paris. The result was Mark Foy's store known as the Piazza and opened in September 1909. Mark Foy retired from active participation in the business then. He had wound back his work there earlier while investigating and pursuing other interests.
A description of the new store:
BUILDINGS AND WORKS. PROGRESS OF THE TRADE. MARK FOY'S NEW BUILDING.
The work of erecting new premises for Messrs. Mark Foy has been commenced by the contractors, Messrs. Douzan Brothers, and when completed the building will prove a valuable addition to the work of remodel-ling the southern end of the city. The site is at the corner of Liverpool and Elizabeth streets, and runs right through to Castlereagh-street, and almost to Goulburn-street, so that the building will stand on more than an acre of ground, and the floor space provided in the plans will total upwards of three acres. The building will have elevations to three thoroughfares. Owing to the steep grade in Liverpool-street, the architects, Messrs. M'Credie and Anderson, have designed in such a manner that there will be three stories in the Castlereagh-Street frontage, and only two on the Elizabeth-street side. At the northern end there will be a piazza 21ft wide, and level with the Elizabeth-street corner, and approached from Liverpool-street by a magnificent flight of steps ex-tending the whole of the Liverpool-street frontage. The piazza will be covered by a suspended glass awning, containing an ornamental centre feature, something new to Sydney. The main entrance to the building will be at this end, and will lead directly into the manchester and dress department. The main staircase is provided for in a centre block of the building, octagon in shape, and 73ft each way in dimensions. This broad staircase starts from the centres, and emerges into a half landing, and from there a wide flight of steps leads to the first floor, where the lace, ribbons, and other departments have been placed. A wide and ornamental entrance on the Elizabeth-street frontage leads to the centre or staircase block, on the main floor. On the Castlereagh-street side there is also an extensive entrance, by which an elevator is reached that will convey customers to the main floor, and there a revolving staircase is to be built leading to the first floor. This staircase will be quite a novelty to Sydney people. It is to be so constructed that a person placing his feet upon the bottom step-is quickly raised to the upper floor of the building without any exertion on his part. The whole of the departments on the immense floor space are to be so arranged as to be grouped into sections, and conveniently situated to each other, in order to simplify the arrangements, and give to the customers a maximum amount of comfort for a minimum amount of exertion. At the southern end, on the first floor, will be two spacious dining-rooms, one for the public, and one for the employees. The central features on the Elizabeth and Castlereagh streets sides will be carried up an extra story, and this will provide for ladies' re-tiring rooms. This central feature, octagon in shape, will be lighted by means of a dome constructed of large sheets of glass in steel framing. The whole of the internal fittings, including counters,' showcases, etc., will be made from Siberian oak, especially selected by Mr. Anderson during his recent tour abroad. The ceilings throughout will be in stamped metal. But the great feature of the building will be the magnificent show windows running right round the three frontages. Those on the Elizabeth and Liverpool streets sides will be constructed on the V principle. To the Elizabeth-street frontago there will be two rows of these windows. 124ft long each, and unbroken by a single column or pier; and only divided by the Ellzabcth-street en-trance. The show windows on the western side will be level with Castlereagh-street. They will be straight, and in bays of 23ft each, so that the whole will produce a lengthy and magnificent display of glass for show purposes. The street awnings on the Elizabeth and Castlereagh Streets frontages will be ornamented with an emdeca tile ceiling.
Mark Foy’s Building, Sydney], c1909. Studio line reads “Kimbel & Co. Alex Weir Manager. 76a Pitt St, Sydney.” Inscription reads “Adrian Douzans, builder & contractor for Mark Foy’s Ltd building, 1908-1909.” Originally part of the Josef Le Bovic gallery of historic items.
The building will be constructed throughout of steel, while the exterior walling around the steel framing will be in white glazed bricks, with bands and other ornamental work of yellow faience, which is an English clay burnt and glazed. The elevations will be attractive, and the general design, as well as being extensive, will be most pleasing. The roof will ho covered with purple Bangor slates and there will be a tower on each corner, with the central feature and dome already described surmounting the whole. The general arrangements will be similar to those In the latest Paris houses, particularly the Bon Marche. A very large proportion of the material to be used in the work Is now being Imported. The contractors for erecting the building are Messrs. Douzan Brothers; the ceiling work will be entrusted to Messrs. Wunderlich, Limited. The lead and glass for the faience work will be supplied by Messrs. Burmantofts, Limited, of Leeds, England. The mosaic Venetian glass signs In the panels of the frieze under the first floor windows something entirely new to Sydney - will be provided by the firm of Diespeker Limited, of England and the Continent.. The Shawarlgg Brick Company of Glasgow will supply the glazed bricks, with which the whole of the outer walls are to be built. The steel for constructional work, of which there will be a good many tons, will come from the Ascerics Steel Works, In Belgium. The suspended awning will be made by Messrs. Swartz and Muerer of Paris; while the revolving staircase will be supplied by Messrs. A. Plat and Son, also of Paris. It is estimated that the whole work will run into something between £70,000 and £80,000. BUILDINGS AND WORKS. (1908, January 7). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14871344
This item, from the time when the 'Great White Fleet' of America was visiting Australia, and Sydney, arriving in our harbour of August 20th, 1908, mentions the as yet to be opened 'Piazza'
MARK FOY'S FAIR.
At this period it is considered proper for the majority of folk to be concerned in naval affairs, hence the many windows of Mark Foy's establishment have a nautical flavor. They are illustrated with a series of well-painted battleships, ancient and modern. One window has a picture of the future airship, with its guns ready to play havoc with the city below. The windows daily draw a large crowd of sightseers, and many enter the establishment to see the wonders of the Fair. It is a Fair, for it seems safe to assume, every possible, article in connection with drapery and furniture is to be obtained, and in a large measure the people act as buyers and also sellers, the goods are displayed on the many counters, and the people make their own selection.
This is the last Winter Fair that will be held at this old and favorite house. Within twelve months Mark Foy will be established in his new palatial premises in Elizabeth-street, near Liverpool street. For the benefit of the large section who are compelled to shop by post, a small but useful booklet, entitled, 'Fleet of Good Values' has been .compiled. A copy may be obtained by writing. MARK FOY'S FAIR. (1908, July 14). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article114756974
AN EMPORIUM OF COMMERCE. MARK FOY'S NEW BUILDING.
Mark -Foy's fine new block, at the Intersection of Liverpool, Elizabeth, and Castlereagh streets, has been open to the public for some days past, and no doubt thousands of people know all about It. On the other hand, there are still thousands who know It not, and for these many surprises are in store.
Yesterday an Inspection of tho building showed that there was any amount of work, such as finishing touches to decorations, show bases, &c., to be done, but there was abundant evidence that the new emporium of the old popular Oxford-street firm will be one of the sights of. Sydney. -The front is approached by a broad piazza level with the Elizabeth-street corner, and extending right across tho frontage. The main entrance, through handsome mahogany doors, leads Into the dress and manchester departments, which occupy the north-western portion of tho main floor. From this entrance an uninterrupted view of tho whole length of the building can be obtained. The effect, looking down a colonnade of handsomely-decorated columns, Is a most striking one. Close to the central entrance elevator Is one of tho novelties of tho building — the travelling staircase— upon which one may step, and, without any further exertion, be landed on the . upper floor. This staircase Is tho first of Its kind In Australasia, If not In the Southern Hemisphere. The upper floor has a public dining-room at tho southern end, with very line painted glass screens round the well-hole into the show-room, a dining-room for employees, the book department, a ladles' reading and writing-room, chemist's department, post pillar, basketware and trunks department, telephone bureau, Iced drinks fountain, and the staircase to the ladles' lavatory, while tho passenger lift and staircase to the female employees' lavatory are on the Castlereagh-street side. The section of -this floor on the Castlereagh-street side and the Liverpool-street front is occupied by the Jewellery, bric-a-brac, nic-nacs, and ladies' boots departments. The lower floor Is devoted to furniture, carpets, linoleums. &c., on the Liverpool and Castlereagh streets sides: the grocery department being next to Elizabeth-street. Ironmongery and tho heavier goods will occupy tho remainder of the Castlereagh-street side, while on the opposite side, running along Elizabeth-street, will be the parcels, sorting, and packing rooms. The lower floor has been finished In white throughout, and consequently Is very well lighted without any recourse to artificial means. A very complete system of electric lighting has been Installed. In the adjoining building, separated from the main edifice, are the receiving and opening up rooms at the Castlereagh-street side, whence the goods will be distributed to the various departments, and at the Elizabeth-street end Is the despatch room, Into which tho travelling conveyor brings Its continuous stream of goods. The principal contractors for the building were Messrs. Douzons Bros. The electrical engineer was Mr. A. C. F. Webb. who superintended the entire Installation, which was most creditably carried out by Mr. Johnson The Messrs. Castles and Mr. I Clint were responsible for the whole of the wrought iron work, while the fitting up of the windows. counters, mirrors, and fixtures was carried out by Mr. East. For the decorative scheme Messrs. Crisp Bros., the well-knowft Sydney artists, were responsible. The Standard Waygood Company supplied and placed the lifts, and also arranged the running of the moving staircase. Strong suggestions were made to import a French engineer to ensure success, but a smart young Australian, Mr. Gordon Bennett, employed by the Standard Waygood Company, surmounted all difficulties, and brought tho machinery to a perfect balance and successful . running. Messrs. Steel and Poole, tho contractors, of Pyrmont, prepared a great quantity of steel work for the building, while the whole of the ceiling work. &c., was supplied by the well-known Wunderlich Co., of Sydney. AN EMPORIUM OF COMMERCE. (1909, September 15). The Star (Sydney, NSW : 1909 - 1910), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article230494684
Mark Foy's was the first Sydney store to change from horse-drawn to motor delivery vans.
Mark Foy's Stables; Olivia Lane, Surry Hills c.1922 - from Home and Away Albums- 34921, Image.: hall_34921h, courtesy State Library of NSW
TRANSFORMATION OF MARK FOY'S
Mark Foy's Ltd., the well-known Piazza building, is to be transformed within, although the present style of architecture will be more or less followed throughout. When complete, the building will look like this. Messrs. Ross and Rowe are the architects. TRANSFORMATION OF MARK FOY'S (1926, May 28). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 5. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article117285171
PROPOSED NEW PREMISES FOR MARK FOY'S, LIMITED.
TO BE ERECTED ON THE SITE OF THE PRESENT BUILDING, BOUNDED BY CASTLEREAGH, LIVERPOOL, AND ELIZABETH STREETS.
THE TOTAL AREA OF THE NEW FLOORS WILL EXCEED 600.000 SQUARE FEET. THE ARCHITECTS. MESSRS, H. E. ROSS AND ROWE. HAVE DESIGNED THE WORK TO BE CARRIED OUT IN SECTIONS. A DESCRIPTION OF THE PREMISES IS PUBLISHED IN OUR BUILDING COLUMN TO-DAY.PROPOSED NEW PREMISES FOR MARK FOY'S, LIMITED. (1926, June 2). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 18. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16295915
Liverpool-Street view of Mark Foys, circa 1939 - Album Home and Away - 35250 - Image hall_35250h, courtesy State Library of NSW
In 1888 Mark Foy junior married a lady whom he may have met in his childhood, Annie Davy (June 2nd, 1864 - May 26th, 1921). Annie was the daughter of Mary Ann and John Davy both of whom had died by 1870, leaving her an orphan. Consumption, a term which describes how this disease wastes or 'consumes' its victims, and is now called tuberculosis and spread by breathing the air of those infected during close contact, claimed her grandfather, uncle, her mother and her father;
MARRIAGES. DAVY—O'CONNELL.—On the 20th inst., at St. Francis's Cathedral, Melbourne, by the Rev. W. M. Finn, Mr.John Davy, merchant, Melbourne, to Mary Anne, only daughter of the late Mr. Daniel O'Connell, Melbourne. STOCK AND SHARE LIST. (1862, November 27). The Argus(Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1956), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article6481457
TO LET, first-class HOUSE, Fitzroy-street. Apply Mr. Foy, No.29 King William-street, Collingwood. Advertising. (1859, June 11). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1956), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article5682618
On the 18th inst, at his residence, Morning Star Hotel, Little Bourke-street, Melbourne, Mr. Daniel O'Connell, aged 42 years. Family Notices. (1860, November 19). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1956), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article5693477
THE Friends of the late Mr. DANIEL O'CONNELL are respectfully invited to follow his remains to the place of interment, Melbourne General Cemetery. The funeral to move from his residence, Morning Star Hotel, Little Bourke street east, this day (Tuesday). 20th inst., at 3 o'clock p.m. JOHN DALEY, undertaker, La Trobe and Spring streets, Melbourne. Family Notices. (1860, November 20). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1956), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article5693584
DEATH. O'CONNELL.-On the 16th inst., of consumption, at the residence of his brother-in-law, Mr. John Davy, Brunswick-street, Fitzroy, John, eldest son of the late Mr. Daniel O'Connell, aged twenty-three years. Family Notices. (1865, December 18). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1956), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article5766894
DAVY.—On the 19th inst, at her residence, 88 Rathdowne street, Carlton, Mrs. Mary Anne Davy, widow of the late Mr. John Davy, merchant, and only daughter of the late Mr. Daniel O'Connell, aged 26 years. R.I.P. Family Notices. (1870, October 21). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1956), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article5836583
FOY-DAVEY.-April 18 at St Mary's Cathedral, Sydney, by the Rev. Father Byrne, Mark, second son of the late Mark Foy, Esq .J P., of Melbourne, to Annie, only daughter of the late John Davey, of Melbourne. Family Notices. (1888, May 23). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13687300
It seems the heartache was not over for Annie. A trip to England saw her leave but not return to Australia.
In 1898 Mark Francis Foy, eldest son of Mark Foy junior, was born in London. Some sources state this first son was born of Elizabeth Dominca Foy (nee Tweedie) who Mark Foy married in St Mary's Cathedral, Hobart, Tasmania on the 19th of September, 1900, two years later.
A Miss Tweedie had been working at Foy's in Sydney, with a responsible position and some acclaim for her dressmaking skills. This Miss Tweedie 'returned to London' shortly prior to Annie and Mark sailing for there. Annie may have caught the disease, or been suffering for some time from it, that caused the death of so many family members and was taken there for a 'cure'.
DRESSMAKING.-Wanted, Improvers and Apprentices. Miss Tweedie. Mark Foy. Oxford-street, Advertising. (1890, October 16). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13773214
DRESSMAKING.-Wanted, two first-class Bodice Hands, Miss Tweedie, Mark Foy, Oxford-street._ Advertising. (1891, May 16). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 16. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13824621
Miss Tweedie returns from visit to Europe; specifically LONDON, PARIS, VIENNA, Advertising. (1895, May 28). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 8. Retrieved from
DRESSMAKING FOR NOTHING – ‘I WILL SHOW YOU HOW '
There’s some plain speaking in this advertisement. I can show you Ladies how to get a Dress, of the- most fashionable Winter Material made to measure by the Leading Modistes of Australia and all for less than the material alone would cost you in a city shop
'TIS A LESSON WORTH LEARNING
MARK FOY has just opened up a Shipment of WINTER CREPONS and CURL CLOTH, and other Fashionable Material* the like of which for variety for excellence and for value has never been seen m Sydney before
These are bravo words but, all the same they express a simple, bald fact MARK FOY HAS OUTSTEPPED the BOUNDS of CALM DISCRETION in such a HUGE PURCHASE BUT VALUE TEMPTED, .AND FOY WAS GAME
These BEAUTIFUL GOODS are in all the newest Winter Shades and will be sold from from Is 4 ¾ d to 5s 3d per yard
What would cost you 7s 3d in the city will be sold at FOY’s for 2s 6d and so on all year round
MISS TWEEDIE,
The premiere Modiste at Mark FOY’s is the leader of her art in Australia
MADAME BICAL
has the highest recommendations from the centre of fashion In Paris
THE LESSON.
Any lady can pick her material from the great choice at FOY a and have it made into, the most fashionable garment by either of these artistes and the total expense will be less than the bare cost of the material in the city FACTS FROM FOY'S . Advertising. (1896, February 27). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14039046
On the subject of dress, I must tell you that Miss Tweedie, of Mark Foy's, whom I have long looked on as the Australian Worth, has gone home and opened an atelier in Hanover Square. Among her patrons are Lady Carrington and Lady Jersey. TASMA'S LETTER. (1897, April 24). Clarence and Richmond Examiner (Grafton, NSW : 1889 - 1915), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article61317118
As the Foy's were staunchly Catholic, an annulment may have been sought and granted. The couple were granted a divorce in NSW in 1900.
Annie died at Bournemouth a place renowned for its Baths and treatments for people suffering from Consumption at that time. A will, sealed and lodged in 1899 offers some insight;
Foy, Annie, formerly wife of Mark Foy, of Crescent-road, Bournemouth, died 26th May, 1921. Next of kin wanted. £13,368 NEXT OF KIN. (1922, July 4). The Brisbane Courier (Qld. : 1864 - 1933), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20556969
Right: MRS. ANNIE FOY'S WILL. (1926, May 26). The Argus(Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1956), p. 9. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article3784431
Some of what Mark Foy may have been experiencing during these events can be glimpsed in him retiring from full time work at Mark Foy's in 1898 to 'pursue other interests', as reported in one article.
Mark returned per the 'India' in March 1900. Miss E Tweedie, 36, landed in Sydney from aboard the 'Marloo I' in August 1900.
In early September 1900 Mark caught the 'Pateena VI' to Launceston.
On September 19th, 1900 at St Mary's Cathedral, Hobart, Tasmania, he married Elizabeth Dominica Tweedie.
A Mrs M Foy and Infant, aged 1, returned to Sydney per the 'Ophir' - landing in late October 1900.
His zeal for new projects shows in acquiring land in the Blue Mountains in 1901-1902 what would become the Hydro Majestic Medlow Baths, which opened in July 1904.
Mark Foy built the Hydro Majestic Hotel in 1903 and bought land in the Megalong Valley to provide goods and supplies for the hotel. The land he called The Valley Farm. He purchased 300 acres in 1904 then added another 200 acres from Donald Boyd, plus a lease on 640 acres.
He built a large rural holding with a storehouse, stables and buggy shed, 18 stall milking shed, a dairy shed, machinery shed as well as a piggery. He also built a racecourse with a mile long track. The farm grew good crops of corn, turnips, oats.
The Hydro Majestic hotel began as the Belgravia Hotel which was completed in 1891. The hotel is a combination of three grand properties. The first being a property developed by Edward Hargraves who received a grant from the government following his discovery of gold to the west of the Blue Mountains in 1851.
The second was Belgravia Hotel which was built in 1891 next door to the ‘Hargraves House’ and the third was ‘Tuckers House’. The hotel was a health retreat and the building was constructed in Queen Anne style.
Mark Foy (junior, with curly hair) on original Medlow Railway Station B & W Print - 1901 - courtesy Blue Mountains City Library
Belgravia Hotel which was part of the Hydro Majestic Hotel complex, at Medlow Bath, New South Wales. Photographer unknown Date c. 1910. National Library of Australia PIC/6015/31 LOC Box PIC/6015
Mark Foy purchased the site for the Hydro Majestic in 1902 for the purposes of a hydropathic sanatorium under the belief that the land contained mineral springs. At that stage the town was known as 'Medlow' and Mr. Foy successfully petitioned the New South Wales government to change the name to Medlow Bath, the current name. It is not known if he requested the name changed to make the name sound more prestigious, or if he wanted to avoid confusion with another town called Medlow, also in New South Wales.
By the time the hotel opened in 1904, the mineral springs (if they ever existed) had dried up. Mark Foy had mineral water imported from Germany in large steel containers. After travelling in these containers from Germany to Australia the water reportedly tasted awful, and so it was assumed that it must have been good for a person's health. Guests of the hotel were instructed to drink this water on a regular basis.
Guests included King Edward VII, who celebrated his birthday there in 1909, Nellie Melba, who donated a grand piano to the hotel, Australia's first Prime Minister Sir Edmund Barton, who died in the hotel in 1920, Sherlock Holmes' creator Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Julius Blau of 4711 perfume fame, and the Rajah of Pudukkutai with his Australian-born wife, the former Molly Fink. The cream of Sydney's 'society' were frequent visitors, social columns in all newspapers reporting their 'return to excellent health' after a stay.
Fire destroyed the Gallery building in 1905, and the original Belgravia wing in 1922:
KATOOMBA BLAZE. Famous Hotel Destroyed. £30,000 DAMAGE. KATOOMBA, Friday. - The Hydro-Majestic Hotel at Medlow Bath, a famous tourist resort in the Blue Moun-tains, has been partially destroyed by fire. The fire broke out from an un-known cause in the early hours this morning. The manager, his wife and family, who were awakened by the caretaker, had a narrow escape from the burning building in their night attire. The whole of the central section, known as Belgravia, with its renowned picture gallery, and two storeys of bedrooms, is a smouldering mass of ruins. The picture gallery was one of the features of the Hydro. It contained specimens by many well known artists, also many fine marble busts. It contained specimens of such well-known artists as Lister, Julian Ashton, Tebbutt, Gladstone, Ayre, and Cayley.
Guests in a gallery of the Hydro Majestic Hotel at Medlow Bath, New South Wales, courtesy National Library of Australia, image no.: nla.obj-146214419-1
[ca. 1910]
Cloister, Medlow Bath Hydro, courtesy National Library of Australia, image no.: nla.obj-146216014-1. [ca. 1910]
Library and writing room at the Hydro Majestic Hotel, Medlow Bath, New South Wales, circa 1910, courtesy National Library of Australia. Image No.: nla.obj-146214911-1
Billiard room at the Hydro Majestic Hotel, Medlow Bath, New South Wales, circa 1910. courtesy National Library of Australia, Image No.: nla.obj-146215215-1
Gallery next to the billiard room of the Hydro Majestic Hotel, Medlow Bath, New South Wales, circa 1910 - courtesy National Library of Australia. Image No.: nla.obj-146216316-1
Woman and car at the main entrance to the Hydro Majestic Hotel, at Medlow Bath, New South Wales circa 1910 - courtesy National Library of Australia. Image No.: nla.obj-146217360-1
Theatre Room inside the Hydro Majestic
Snowy exterior of the casino at the Hydro Majestic Hotel, Medlow Bath, New South Wales, circa 1910. courtesy National Library of Australia, Image No.: nla.obj-146215019-1
Exterior of the Hydro Majestic Hotel at Medlow Bath, New South Wales, 2, circa 1910. courtesy National Library of Australia, Image No.: nla.obj-146214817-1
The Hydro was erected about 20 years ago. It was intended to mark a new departure in hotel accommodation. Altogether it has cost about £90,000. The damage, as a result of the fire, is roughly estimated at £30,000. The building was owned by Mr. Mark Foy. It was leased to the Joynton Smith Trust. The whole of the buildings and contents were insured. KATOOMBA BLAZE. (1922, August 19). Advocate (Burnie, Tas. : 1890 - 1954), p. 5. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article66728078 and A BIG FIRE. (1922, August 26). Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954), p. 42. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article87435205
Few tourists, visit the Blue Mountains without looking over the great, somewhat straggling building which picturesquely hangs over the Kanimbla Valley. Well-known as the Hydro-Majestic was as a mountain resort,it was even better known because of its history, its unusual architecture, and its unique, in places luxurious, appointments and fittings. The building had a frontage of about 1000 feet to the main Western-road.
The picture gallery was the show portion of the building, where, in addition to canvases by some well-known painters, there were a number of good pieces of statuary. The residential portion of the building had been closed for some weeks, the only visitors being tourists, who stopped for an hour or so to look through the building. Mr. Millett, the manager of the hotel, lived in the building with his wife and family and four children. The first person to notice the fire was one of the employees of the place, Mr. Harry Skeen, who lived in a cottage nearby. He was sleeping out on the verandah of his cottage, and was awakened at about 3 a.m. by an unusual glare. He found the western wing of the building ablaze, and rushed across to awaken the manager. Mr. Millett and his family were all asleep, although heavy smoke was pouring into that portion of the hotel. They all got out safely. The flames, fanned by a stiff westerly wind, spread rapidly, and formed a fiery pillar that was visible for many miles about. The Katoomba Fire Brigade was notified, but it was not until 4.30 a.m. that it came into action. The few firemen had a difficult task, rendered harder by a poor water supply,which was later augmented by running a lineof hose to a hydrant nearly a quarter of a mile away. It was not until a couple of hours later that the flames were beaten back and there was no danger of the fire spreading to the eastern portion of the hotel,which contains, in addition to many bed-rooms, a casino and large billiard-rooms. The Hydro-Majestic was built some 20 years ago by Mr. Mark Foy, who intended it as a luxurious tourist hotel. Later it was leased to Sir Joynton Smith, the present lessee. HYDRO-MAJESTIC. FIRE AT MEDLOW. (1922, August 19). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 13. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16019743
Hydro Majestic staff ball c1910. Notes: Mark Foy, owner of the hotel, standing centre back, wearing his wife's hat and dress with wig. Unknown gent on right in frock and wig with six shooter. Courtesy Blue Mountains City Library
Sun Bath Road, Hydro Majestic - On the right is Mrs Mark Foy (Elizabeth). File: 000\000834, courtesy the Blue Mountains Library
Elizabeth gave birth to their child Maxine in 1902, the same year this huge 'healing' edifice was commenced. In 1903 Alice S R (called Sheleagh) was born and his second son, Francis Jefferson, in 1908.
Mark Foy, pictured here with his family - circa 1915
Mark Foy's clearly quick mind and passion for all new innovations of humankind, combined with a buy and sell upbringing of knowing how to keep the financial wheels turning to back all ventures, runs through his passion for motor cars. According to information gleaned from Foy’s niece Mary Shaw by motoring historian Bill Boldiston, at the turn of the 19th century Mark Foy asked his friend Bill Elliott, who lived in France, to purchase a motor car for him.
Elliott dutifully did so, buying an 1899 3hp De Dion Voiturette Vis a Vis motor car in London for 175 pounds and 10 shillings and a further 9.13.10 worth of accessories on January 26, 1900. It arrived in Sydney on April 27 and cleared Sydney customs on May 15 that year. The vehicle seems to have been the first motor car imported into NSW.
Mark Foy (far right) in his Panhard 1901
After opening his “Palace in the wilderness’’ in 1904, Foy and another nearby hotel owner and keen motorist, Tom Rodriquez, began a daily service to Jenolan Caves featuring Foy’s latest import, a 10hp Panhard et Levassor. Mr. Foy then imported two Milnes-Daimlers in chassis form, which became Charabancs, and offered hotel guests motor tours.
He later bought three Bedelia French cyclecars, which he kept at his Megalong Valley property, Valley Farm. The vehicles were made available to guests who wished to indulge in motor racing on the nearby Medlow Showground circuit.
Foy’s next purchase, a 1910 Fiat Tipo Zero, so impressed him that he became an agent for the brand.
Not only did he compete in the first ever marathon car race in Australia from Sydney to Melbourne he also had the knack for using his collection at Medlow Baths as well as selling it off when it suited:
MOTORING. DUNLOP RELIABILITY RACE. TWO CARS WRECKED. GUNDAGAI, Wednesday -The section of the Dunlop Reliability Motor Race today from Goulburn to Gundagai, through beautiful country and on comparatively good roads, was not accomplished with
out stirring incidents. Two Victorian competitors for the Buchanan Trophy met with accidents, and there is no prospect of either car concerned being repaired for the three remaining sections. A third Victorian, Mr. H. J. Stevens, again proved himself to be the speediest motorist on the road. He went for speed, and notched a great performance when the long hill climbing is taken into account. The first batch of motorcycles was despatched at a quarter to 7 o'clock. By 8 o' clock nearly 30 cycles or cars were on the road. Mr. Mark Foy, whose car suffered on Tuesday, was a late starter, with one or two others. MOTORING. (1905, February 23). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1956), p. 5. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article9885216
A GOOD IDEA. MARK FOY'S MOTORS, FROM MEDLOW BATH. Regarding the UNRESERVED SALE of the 15 MOTORCARS of Mr. MARK FOY, who is leaving for England, a good idea is suggested, and will be carried out, SALE ON THE LAWNS OF "EU-MEMMERING," BELLEVUE HILL, near Tram Terminus, 7th SEPTEMBER-WEDNESDAY. CARS ON VIEW: Sunday, Monday,Tuesday, and Wednesday. INTENDING PURCHASERS can have a trial on the stiff hills in the neighbourhood to show that all is right with the cars. As all the famous Medlow Bath drivers, who are the best in Australia, will be temporarily out of work, and attending the Sale to show the cars off, they will instruct any purchaser of a Car how to drive it, and give them, if it is necessary, ONE WEEK'S LESSON IN THE PARK FOR ONE GUINEA. If you are a buyer you will thusly get the most expert training in driving your purchased Car in a manner as not to injure it until you become your-self thoroughly experienced. Advertising. (1910, September 1). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15183655
MOTOR CARS. On the Lawn of EUMEMMERING HALL, BELLEVUE BILL.Under favoured instructions received from MARK FOY, ESQ., Consequent upon his early departure for Europe,The Whole of his FINE COLLECTION OF MOTOR CARS, of Various Manufacture. Including: TWO 18-31 H.P. FIAT CARS. TWO 10-12 H.P. FIAT CARS. 15-22 NEW CABRIOLET STOEWER CAR. This Car has not run 1500 miles, fitted with C..A.A'.Lighting Set, and is the most perfectly fitted Car in the State. TWO 8-10 H.P. DE DION CARS. 12-10 H.P. LIMOUSINE N.A.G. CAR. 10-12 H.P. STOEWER CAR. Detailed particulars set out in Catalogues, which can be obtained from the Auctioneers, or will be posted on application. BARNARD AND CO. will sell by auction as above.
POSITIVELY WITHOUT RESERVE. Auctioneers' Offices, 77 Castlereagh-st. Advertising. (1913, March 31). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15409004
Written on the rear of the original print is From Miss M. McGahey, Bayview, NSW. (Miss M McGahey was one of his grand-daughters via first daughter Maxine. Ed.) Car belonged to late Mr. Mark Foy while the front reads – in Mark Foy’s hand? – Car I bought from Mass(?). French car about 1901(?) in Sydney. £150. Photo owned by David Manson and sourced from Serpolette's Tricycle, The Early Motor in Australiasia, Newsletter, No 6, December 2012 who state Mark Foy is a "pioneer NSW motorist".
Another aspect of this man's interests that shows up in Pittwater and perhaps points to friendly support of his then neighbours the Pittwater Aquatic Club and their early history of rowing, shows in his sponsorship of the Mark Foy Race in Pittwater Regattas during the 1920's and 1930's.
Apart from being on good terms with the Williams he was also good friends with the Riddles of Bayview, MVHA lady Eileen Gordon, who was great friends with May Riddle, recalls donating a photograph of Mr. Foy and May's father, Andrew to the Manly, Warringah and Pittwater Historical Society. This support of rowers and rowing can be traced back to an older interest in this sport;
THE SCULLING CHAMPIONSHIP-MARK FOY GIVES STANBURY A NEW BOAT
London, July 6. James Stanbury is undergoing a sound preparation for his match with Harding for the sculling championship of the world on Monday next. Mr. Mark Foy, of Sydney, has presented Stanbury with a new boat, to be used in the match. THE SCULLING CHAMPIONSHIP. (1896, July 10). The Inquirer & Commercial News (Perth, WA : 1855 - 1901), p. 7. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article66541367
James (Jim) Stanbury (1868-1945), sculler, was born on 25 February 1868 at Mullet Island, Broken Bay, New South Wales, son of James Stanbury, a farm labourer from Devonshire, and his Sydney-born wife Catherine, née Reilly. Several years later the family shifted to Nowra where young James learned to row on the Shoalhaven. In 1887 he moved to Sydney to join the professional sculling ranks and within a year had stunned onlookers by finishing a close second when Henry Searle set a Parramatta River record. Following Stanbury's successful defence of his title against Charles Harding, the English champion, in July 1896 in London, Gaudaur agreed to race over the neutral Thames course. In a contest where Stanbury claimed a foul, Gaudaur took the world title on 7 September. The Australian was received coolly in Sydney for having refused to row out the match at racing speed.
Scott Bennett, 'Stanbury, James (Jim) (1868–1945)', Australian Dictionary of Biography, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, http://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/stanbury-james-jim-8618/text15055
"AQUATIC WEEK"
Mr. Foy's Idea
BROKEN BAY CHOSEN
Mr. Mark Foy, commodore of the Sydney Flying Squadron, takes a particularly keen Interest in the aquatics of the Pittwater district, and is financially assisting the local aquatic club in staging a two days' regatta on Boxing Day and New Year's Day. Mr. Foy is of the opinion that New South Wales should develop an 'aquatic week." and considers that the placid waters of Broken Bay, in the vicinity of Bayview an Ideal spot for the launching next season of a weeks camping regatta, embracing the Christmas and New Year holidays. He considers races could be arranged every day, and that all the clubs on Port Jackson would be glad to cooperate.
Mr. Mark Foy.
"AQUATIC WEEK" (1924, December 11). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 - 1930), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article245464819
Professional Sculling: The Mark Foy Mens Single Sculls (heavy boats) "Final H Robson 1 J Wilson 2 C Mudie 3 won by three lengths ". PITTWATER REGATTA. (1934, December 31). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 13. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17117750
DEATH OF MRS. MARK FOY.
Mrs. Elizabeth Foy, daughter-in-law of the founder of Mark Foy's Ltd has died in California after an operation for appendicitis. She left Australia on a world tour in April 1939 with her husband, Mr. Mark Foy, chairman of directors of Hydro Majestic Ltd Medlow Bath, and their daughter Miss Sheleagh Foy. Their elder son, Mr. Mark Francis Foy, and his wife left Sydney in December to join his parents in the United States and all had taken their passages to return this week by the same steamer. Two other members of the family, Mrs. Maxine McGahey and Mr. Jefferson Foy are in Sydney. The body will be be brought to Sydney for the funeral. DEATH OF MRS. MARK FOY. (1940, July 11). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 9. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17683793
Elizabeth's funeral took place almost six weeks later;
FUNERAL OF MRS. ELIZABETH FOY.
The remains of Mrs. Elizabeth FOY, daughter-in-law of the founder of Mark Foy's, Ltd., who died in Southern California on July 9 after an operation for appendicitis, have been brought to Sydney for burial. There will be a Requiem Mass at St Mary's Cathedral at 10 o'clock this morning, after which the cortege will move to the South Head Cemetery. FUNERAL OF MRS. ELIZABETH FOY. (1940, August 21). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 13. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17677065
Plans to change things at Bayview appear in Warringah Shire Council records;
Ordinary Meeting. Subn. A 1/4/41. 39. G. S. Hackeller & Son, Solicitors, 23/3/41, submitting, on behalf of Mr. Mark Foy, plan of proposed subdivision of part of Portion 28, Bayview Road, Bayview. Resolved, - That the plan be approved provided that the strip marked "Access" are to be part and parcel of the rear block. (Crs. Campbell, O'Reilly)
The above was part of a larger land holding at Bayview;
Primary Application - Mark Foy 12 Acres 28 1/4 perches on Bay View Road in Parish Narrabeen County Cumberland Volume 6442 Folio 107 - Date Range: 1949-07-20 to 1952-02-05 - NSW State Records Series 17513 / Primary Application Packets
This gentleman of innovation continued in his love of sailing, attending to family business and watching his precious Hydro Majestic come in for War Service as this construction against the toll of disease and unhappiness was used for convalescing American servicemen during WWII to once again be a haven of restorative health and a few laughs.
One source researched states; "Instead of getting out of bed to turn a light switch off, they'd shoot the bulb out with a revolver," said Mrs Mary Shaw, grand-daughter of the hotel's founder, Mark Foy. "They had mouse traps hidden on couches and chairs to catch the unwary and they rolled some statuary down the cliffs at the back... They disposed of a herd of wild goats that my grandfather had imported... the whole lot of them for target practice just for something to do." GERALDINE O'BRIEN, Heritage Writer, Glory days are coming back to the Hydro Majestic. 2009.
After a lifetime filled to the brim with doing, giving, and introducing new innovations to his fellow Australians, Mr Foy, by now aged, responded with characteristic determination to one last challenge.
The following are obituaries for Mark Foy:
FALL CAUSES DEATH OF LEADING BUSINESSMAN.
Mr. Mark Foy, who with two other brothers started the firm of Mark Foy's Limited more than 70 years ago, died in St. Vincent's Hospital last night, aged 85. Mr. Foy, who lived at Victoria Road, Bellevue Hill, died following a fall in his garden at his Bayview cottage. He was admitted to hospital at noon yesterday and died about midnight. Mr. Foy was in bed about 4 o'clock yesterday morning, when he thought he heard a burglar in the grounds. He got out of bed and was walking through a garden patch when he slipped. Mr. Foy was one of Sydney's leading business figures. He was known for his generosity and donated large amount to charity. He was also "prominent" in the sporting world. His main activity was sailing and he was the originator of 18ft sailing in Australia. He owned many championship boats and sailed them in England and Europe. In his youth Mr. Foy was also a good rifle shot. In America when 16 he won several medals for shooting.
Mr. Foy was born in Bendigo. His father, an Irishman started the Melbourne firm of ‘Foy and Gibson.’ The Foy family decided to branch out into Sydney, and Mr. Mark Foy and two other brothers came here and established the business. He was the only surviving brother.
Mr. Foy built the Hydro Majestic at Medlow Bath. Sydney Flying Squadron's fleet will fly black mourning ribbons from masts in Saturday's race in the Harbour. This will be the Squadron's tribute to its founder and its patron, Mr. Foy. Mr. Foy founded the Squadron in 1892 and retained the keenest interest in it until his death. SFS secretary (Mr. W.J. Anderson) said today that all skippers should see black ribbons were flown on Saturday. "Mr. Foy's death has cast gloom over the Sport, his sportsmanship and generosity will long be remembered" added Mr. Anderson. Mr. Foy is survived by two sons and two daughters. Mr. Mark F. Foy, Mr. F. J. Foy, Mrs. McGahey and Miss Sheila Foy. No arrangements have yet been made for the funeral. DEATH OF MR. MARK FOY. (1950, November 17). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 13. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18186921
DEATH OF MR. MARK FOY
Fall In Garden
Mr. Mark Foy, well-known in business early in the century, died in St. Vincent's Hospital on Wednesday night following a fall early on Tuesday morning. He was 85.
Mr. Foy thought he heard a noise in the garden of his Bay-view home about 4 a.m. on Tues-day and is believed to have fallen while searching the garden.
Requiem Mass will be held at 9 a.m. to-day at the Holy Cross Church, Bondi Junction, and the funeral will leave the church at 9.30 a.m. for South Head Cemetery.
Mr. Foy, who was born in Bendigo (Vic.), became a member of the Melbourne firm of Foy and Gibson, which had been founded by his father. With his three brothers he came to Sydney in 1884 and started the firm of Mark Foy's.
RETIRED IN 1908
In 1908 it was floated as a public company and Mr. Foy retired from active participation in the business.
He later built the Hydro Majes-tic Hotel at Medlow Bath and maintained a keen interest in that concern until about 1936.
Since the turn of the century Mr. Foy had travelled extensively in Europe and the Far East.
He was a leading sportsman and in 1892 founded the Sydney Flying Squadron. As a young man in the United States Mr. Foy won several medals for rifle shooting.
Mr. Foy is survived by two sons, Mr. Mark Foy, Jnr., and Mr. Francis Jefferson Foy, and two daughters, Mrs. Maxine McGahey and Miss Sheila Foy.
Sydney Flying Squadron boats will fly black mourning ribbons when their boats race on Sydney Harbour to-morrow.
DEATH OF MR. MARK FOY (1950, November 17). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 13. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18186921
Fortunately in 2008 a discovery allows us to ensure the legacy of all this gentleman brought and gave to so many lives on:
International 18ft Skiff Class Association - Double Bay, Sydney, Australia, Press Release, December 13, 2008
-New Trophy for the International 18ft Skiff Circuit
- The 18 Foot Skiff International Association is delighted to announce a new global competition, the Mark Foy Trophy, to be sailed for the first time in Carnac (France) between June 29th and July 04th 2009. Mark Foy was one of the founders of the 18ft Skiff Class in Sydney in 1892 and a uniquely designed trophy bearing his name was recently rediscovered in the clubhouse of the Sydney Flying Squadron. Newly renovated and kindly donated by the Foy family, this valuable trophy will now take its rightful place as an International 18ft Skiff trophy. As a sign of the importance of the class outside Australia, and to show particular support for the class in Europe, the first venue to hold a series of races for this Trophy will be Carnac in France, often cited as the birthplace of European 18ft Skiff racing. A huge turnout of 18ft Skiffs is expected, with over 30 boats representing Australia, New Zealand, the USA and many European countries, with previous JJ Giltinan winners and champions from other classes competing over 6 days in a gala event hosted by Yacht Club de Carnac. John Harris, Commodore of the Australian 18 Footer League, comments, "Our International class organisation is mandated to foster the growth of the class building on its success Internationally, and promoting the regattas held annually in Australia, Europe and the USA. The JJ Giltinan Trophy has been raced as a "world championship" on Sydney Harbour since 1935, and the Mark Foy Trophy is both a reflection of the popularity of 18 Footer Sailing Internationally and a fitting celebration for the class as it looks to continue its growth on all continents. The JJ Giltinan event will continue to be run in Sydney every year and maintain its iconic status as one of the ultimate sailing trophies to be won in the world today".
In 2010, the Mark Foy Trophy will return to its birthplace in Sydney, Australia and will be run alongside the JJ Giltinan Trophy to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the world's most exciting skiff class. San Francisco in 2011 and Auckland in 2012 are then scheduled hosts for the Mark Foy Trophy.
Notes on the trophy:
The trophy was designed by Mark Foy and crafted in Hong Kong in 1935. It stands 50cm tall, and is decorated with an ornate Chinese junk on top, reflecting the origin of the trophy and Mark Foy's passion for travel. On the handles, and embossed on the base, are shapes of the Australian "Dugong", a native Australian fish that by law can now only be fished by indigenous Australians. This unique and valuable trophy will take up permanent residence in the Sydney Flying Squadron opposite the Harbour Bridge, overlooking the waters where 18ft skiff racing started. From: http://www.sailingtexas.com/markfoytrophy
Extras
MARK FOY
FOY, MARK (1810-1884), draper, was born at Moystown, King's County, Ireland, son of Marc Foy, French emigré and flourmiller, and his wife Catherine, née Hennessy. He was educated at Banagher and was reputedly intended for the legal profession but because of family problems he was apprenticed to a drapery firm in Dublin. In 1858 he arrived at Melbourne in the Champion of the Seas. He probably worked first for Buckley & Nunn but in 1859 went to the goldfields. He had a butcher's shop at Campbell's Creek till 1861 when he moved into a produce store at Castlemaine. In 1873 he went to Bendigo where his brother Francis had a wholesale produce business. Early in 1867 Mark went into partnership with Robert Bentley, a storekeeper. In December 1868 he followed a new rush to Spring Creek, in Melvor Shire, where by January 1869 there was said to be 'a business for every claim at work'. They raw settlement suffered great discomforts and at a public meeting in Foy's premised on 24 February he moved that Spring Creek be constituted a borough. He was elected to a committee for planning separation of the town from nearby Heathcote, the new borough of Graytown was proclaimed on 9 August 1869 and named after Wilson Gray, a family friend. On 11 September Foy became magistrate for the Melvor General Sessions. He also helped to arrange the first borough election and on November was elected a councillor. However, the town's decline continued and he soon dismantled his shop and went to Melbourne. On 11 February 1870 the partnership with Bentley was dissolved 'by mutual consent'.
Foy set up a new drapery shop in Smith Street, Collingwood, where he prospered, occupying three shops by 1875 and six by 1880. At Carrum Swamp he selected 195 acres in November 1871 and later another 129 acres. In November 1882 he settled the Smith Street business on his eldest son Francis, withdrew his capital, brought in William Gibson as Francis's partner and left with his wife for Europe. In San Francisco his health worsened and he died on 14 January 1884. Soon afterwards Francis sold on to Gibson and moved to Sydney to establish a new business under his father's name.
Energetic and resourceful, Foy was described as a 'Liberal Conservative' and was later said to have donated money to Sir James McCulloch's party. He was also sympathetic to the early closing movement. He was married twice: first in Ireland about 1848 to Mary Macken (d. 21 March 1879) by whom he had six surviving children: and second in Melbourne to Catherine Power (d.1930) by whom he had one son.
MARK FOY'S EARLY HISTORY.
A writer in the Bendigo "Advertiser," styling himself "The Almanac," unburdens himself as follows concerning the late Mark Foy, one of the most successful business men Australia has seen:—
The other day I was travelling by train to Carrum, a new watering place on the Mordialloc line, when I saw in passing between Aspendale and Chelsea huge posters alongside the line, stating that this land is now for sale in suitable blocks in the estate of the late Mark Foy. Mr. Mark Foy when I first met him kept a shop in Pall Mall, near the Bank of Australasia, the firm being Foy and Bentley. Mr. Foy came from Castlemaine, I think. His odd advertisements and his way of selling drew attention. They were general drapers, and they were always having clearing sales of goods slightly damaged by salt water from wrecks, "Loch something or other." The goods calicoes, etc., were exhibited outside the shop, in some eases the water drip-ping out of them, and as they were placed well outside the shop on to the footpath, the firm were continually be-ing summoned and fined for breaking the law for so doing. Mark Foy him-self was invariably outside the shop in his shirt sleeves, which were always spotless white, pattering to the people. He had the gift of oratory, and his rich, Irish brogue always drew a crowd, and he did large business. It was wonderful the quantity of "wrecked" goods he always seemed to have, and, strange to say, no one else had heard about the wrecked vessels or where they came from. It is said that one day an intimate friend said to him, "Why, Mark, where do you get all your wrecked drapery from? You must belong to a wreckers' syndicate." "Come here, my friend, and I will show you," and he took him to the rear, and showed him a water tap and some nice stable manure, and said "that is where I rescue my goods." I do not vouch for this yarn.
There was hardly a week that he was not up at court for encroaching on the footpath, and one day in passing I said to him, "Mr. Foy, it must cost you a good deal for fines." He said, "Sonny, that is alright, it pays me well, and is a splendid advertisement." While I was at Bendigo I often used to call and have a chat with him, and his conversation was most amusing and droll. He was at Bendigo when I left, but I was told that when the Graytown rush broke out he went and started business there, and remained for some time, and was Mayor or Pre-sident of the town. I did not hear about him for some years, when I ran across him in Flinders-lane, coming out of one of the softgoods warehouses. I said, "Hallo, Mr. Foy, where have you sprung from, and how are the wrecks?" He said, " Mr. Scott (I had grown a beard by this time) I have come from the country, and I am going to start business in Collingwood, to be nearer the wrecks. I open in Smith-street next week. Come up and see me, and how I will stir things up in that locality." I cannot remember what year it was, but I think it was in the early seventies. His odd advertisements and mode of business again drew attention, and he got on well, and started the drapery trade by announcing "Half-yearly Sale", "'Mark Foy's Fair," "Don't miss the Fair," "Come to Mark Foy's Fair for Bargains," etc. At this time he re-sided on the promises, but his business increased to such an extent that he soon had to take other premises adjoining, and Mark Foy's was a well-known landmark in Collingwood. He continued for some years, but in the eighties Mr. William Gibson, a Glasgow man, came to Melbourne to have a look round, and purchased a half-interest in the business, Mr. Mark Foy, the original, going out, leaving his son as partner, the firm being known afterwards as "Foy and Gibson, late Mark Foy." This was carried on for some years till Mr. Gibson purchased the share of the son, and the firm then then became entirely under the control of Mr. William Gibson. MARK FOY'S EAR[LY HISTORY. (1908, December 4). Barrier Miner (Broken Hill, NSW : 1888 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article45043662
WANTED Nursery GOVERNESS for 3 children. Mrs. Mark Foy Eumemmering Bellevue Hill Advertising. (1910, August 9). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 13. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15174609
LADY HOUSEKEEPER required. No washing or cooking. Also first-class COOK-LAUNDRESS. Mrs. MARK FOY, Eumemmering Hall, Victoria-road, Bellevue Hill. Advertising. (1913, June 28). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 27. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15431357
Mark Foy, pictured here with his family, circa 1915
ARRIVED.-FEB 24th.
Victoria, R.M.S.S., 6,257 tons, A. W. Adamson commander, from Sydney 20th inst., via Hobart 23rd inst. For London-Mrs. Brown and Miss Drown, Messrs.Robert and George Brown, Mr*. LDUÍB Samuel, family(two), and servant, Mr. and Mrs. Slater, Miss Slater, Mr. and Mrs. Richardson, Mr. and Mrs. Mark Foy and Miss Foy. SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE. (1892, February 25). The Argus(Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1956), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8402537
FOY.-July 9. 1940, at Coronado, Southern California, US.A., Elizabeth Foy, dearly beloved wife of Mark Foy, of Sydney. (See to-morrow's "Herald" for Funeral arrangements.) Family Notices. (1940, August 20). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17675264
FOY.-California. U.S.A. (suddenly), Elizabeth, beloved wife of Mark Foy and mother of Mark, Maxine, Sheleagh, and Jefferson. Family Notices. (1940, July 11). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17683939
DEATH OF MRS. MARK FOY. Mrs. Elizabeth Foy, daughter-in-law of the founder of Mark Foy's Ltd has died in California after an operation for appendicitis. She left Australia on a world tour in April 1939 with her husband, Mr. Mark Foy, chairman of directors of Hydro Majestic Ltd Medlow Bath, and their daughter Miss Sheleagh Foy. Their elder son, Mr. Mark Francis Foy, and his wife left Sydney in December to join his parents in the United States and all had taken their passages to return this week by the same steamer. Two other members of the family, Mrs. Maxine McGahey and Mr. Jefferson Foy are in Sydney. The body will be be brought to Sydney for the funeral. DEATH OF MRS. MARK FOY. (1940, July 11). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 9. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17683793
FUNERAL OF MRS. ELIZABETH FOY.
The remains of Mrs. Elizabeth Foy, daughter-in-law of the founder of Mark Foy's, Ltd., who died in Southern California on July 9 after an operation for appendicitis, have been brought to Sydney for burial. There will be a Requiem Mass at St Mary's Cathedral at 10 o'clock this morning, after which the cortege will move to the South Head Cemetery. FUNERAL OF MRS. ELIZABETH FOY. (1940, August 21). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 13. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17677065
ROBBERY FROM GARAGE.
George May and John Francis Guthrie were charged with stealing on March 16 knives, forks, spoons, and other articles, the property of Elizabeth Foy. There was a second count of feloniously receiving stolen property. Mr. E. R. Abigail appeared for May; Mr. R.D. Meagher for Guthrie; both of whom pleaded not guilty. In the case for the Crown it was stated that May was the caretaker of some of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Foy's property while they were in America. The articles which had been stolen were stored in the Mark Foy garage, near Bathurst-street. Some of the missing property was traced to an hotel at Lake Cudgel-lico, which was kept by Guthrie. A man named Jennings, who passed himself off as a dealer, and had disappeared, sold some of the stolen property to Guthrie. May, in the witness box, stated that he reported, the robbery to the police. He was the caretaker at the garage of Mr. Mark Foy. Guthrie, in his evidence, stated that be paid Jennings £26 for certain articles. On pointing out that some of the articles were branded "Medlow," he was told by Jennings that Mr.Mark Foy, before going to America on a visit, had disposed of some of his property. Guthrie was found not guilty, and discharged. May was found guilty of being an accessory before the fact on the first count. He was released on ball to come up for sentence on Friday. QUARTER SESSIONS. (1921, July 20). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15954219
Illuminated Address, from Australian National Maritime Museum online library of digitised materials, items numbered 00005752_1d and 00005752_1e dated 1892.
This illuminated address features a burgundy coloured cloth cover with an impressed ornate gold design. It was presented to Mark Foy Esquire by members of the Sydney Flying Squadron Yacht Club on 16 February 1892. It has five inserts containing watercolours of sailing boats on Sydney harbour, entitled REGINA, MANTURA, VOLUNTEER and LOTTIE.
The Message Reads ' "In wishing you Farewell on your departure for Europe, we, the Members of the Sydney Flying Squadron Yacht Club, desire to express the high esteem which we feel towards you. As Commodore of our Club you have by your uniform courtesy and kindness gained our affectionate regard, and we take this opportunity of thanking you for the great interest you have taken in the welfare of this Club, and the greatly increased interest in the Sailing of Sydney Harbour, which is due in a great extent to the Coloured Sails which you first introduced. We earnestly wish for you and your Wife who accompanies you, the keenest enjoyment of the trip upon which you are about to embark, and we hope in due time to see you amongst us in good health and refreshed by your holiday. We are, yours faithfully, On behalf of the Members of the above Club - February 1892"
The wharf at the foot of Margaret street was thickly packed yesterday afternoon with visitors to see the Alameda away In addition were also conspicuous the friends of other American passengers, also the friends of Mr Mark Foy, who left for London, and the United States. The Sydney Morning Herald. (1896, October 27). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article140
MARK FOY'S SAILING CLUB.
(TO THE EDITOR OF THE REFEREE.')
Sir,— Kindly allow me a short space in your valuable paper on the subject of Mark Foy's new sailing club system to make the following suggestions : — Firstly, would it not be more convenient for the members of the new club if Mr. Foy were to adopt some other system in place of striped sails, such as, for instance, on each boat owner becoming a member and being entered on the books of the club, such member or members, when entering his or their boat, to supply for registration her name and colors. The colors might be of a size and shape that would be thought most desirable, and be filed on the peak of the mainsail. The crew might also wear uniforms, the colors of which would also he registered, and afterwords any boat according to the rules and regulations, should not be allowed to start in a race under any pretence whatever, and no two boats should be allowed to register the same name, identical colors, and uniform. The colors might be painted on the sails if it were thought desirable. The uniform of the crew, it is submitted, would be a right move, would look neut, and would be seen to advantage but sails all colors would appear, to say the least of it, novel, if not ridiculous, and an attempt to vie with .the clown's dress. In horse-racing the jockeys' colors can be distinguished amongst the others sufficiently for all purposes. I feel sure if Mr. Foy adopts this or some other system excepting the striped sails one he should thereby ensure to be added to the register of the club a larger fleet of' boats than could be expected under the system now proposed. 'Wishing Mr. Foy every success, and hoping he will succeed in his desire.-I am, Ac., V.B.S. MARK FOY'S SAILING CLUB. (1891, August 5). Referee (Sydney, NSW : 1886 - 1939), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article121786686
More Sailing Ventures
A handicap race, under the auspices of the Port Jackson Sailing Club, will be sailed this afternoon for a valuable cup presented by Mr. Mark Foy. A rather novel idea in connection with the starting of the boats will be tried at the instance of the donor, the limit boats going off first, the same as in all handicap rowing races by time. Flags will be hoisted for each batch.
The entries and handicaps are :-Liberty, 20ft., and Irene, 22ft., 10m.; Imogene, 22ft., and Myosotis, 22ft., 8m.; Atalanta, 22ft., and Alert, 22ft., 7m.; Our May, 24ft., and Wild Wave, 22ft., 6 minutes; Gazelle, 24ft., Myosotis, 24ft., Esmeralda, 22ft., and Massilia, 24ft., 4 minutes; Lavinia, 24ft., Intrepid, 24ft., Isadora, 24ft., Idothea, 24ft., Our Jack, 24ft, and Our Tom, 24ft., 3 minutes each; Regina, 24ft., and Craigalea, 24ft., scratch. A steamer will follow the race, leaving No. 2 Jetty, Circular Quay, at 2.30 p.m. Mr. M. Foy will officiate as starter from the Rob Roy, and Mr. G. Hellings as umpire.
The monthly meeting of the Prince Alfred Yacht Club was held at Aaron's Exchange Hotel, on Thursday evening, Mr. A. Minnett presiding. Minutes of previous meeting were read and confirmed. Mr. J. F. Hoare's yacht Thelma was admitted to the club. The first-class race, which was set down for next Saturday, was postponed indefinitely. AQUATICS. (1890, January 11). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 9. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13755928
The commodore of the Sydney Flying Squadron, Mr. Mark Foy, arrived in Sydney last week. He has been absent in England for the last three years. Having arrived in the India, he was quarantined in Melbourne, and the tales he tells about the roughness at the station make one think of the worst yarns we hear about the Boers. His experience on Saturday on "our beautiful harbor" was not too bright, either, as he was capsized in Southern Cross prior to the start of the S.F.S. Handicap. However, he was in Donnelly when she won her heat. By the-bye a funny incident in that connection. One of our best-known skippers hailed Geordie Holmes, In Donnelly, and, pointing towards what little, could be seen of the Cross, called out, "Look at-Mark!" One of the crew of the 18-footer, who must have been a bit of a wag, said, "What's that?" and induced the skipper with the"strong white teeth" to repeat his remark several times. The man who enjoyed the joke most was Mark himself, who was sitting in Donnelly smiling in a very broad manner!
Commodore Mark Foy was entertained at a complimentary dinner on Monday night by the members of the Sydney Flying Squadron at Tolle-mache's Holborn Cafe, George-street. There were over forty gentlemen present, which included owners and representatives of nearly all the boats on the club's register, and several officers and members of kindred clubs. After due attention had been paid to the good things provided, a start was made on the limited toast that with the customary loyal one, and, needless to say, it was drunk with enthusiasm.
In replying to the toast of "Our Guest," Mr. Foy said he was very pleased at the cordial manner in which he had been received. He was gratified to find that the squadron had been so successfully managed as it had been during the past three seasons. Mr. Foy also thought that next season the squadron ought to run ten races for £20 prize money in place of £10 as at present. Asked to say a word about the raters and the Maid of Kent, he said that as soon as he saw the Maid, and found out the strong tidal waters on which he was to compete against her for the Australian shield, he recognised that he was beaten, and offered to giveaway the first race if the Britishers would sail the other events on the Solent. But they knew when they had a good bargain, and held him to the Medway course., The result we all know. His crew called the Maid a "box," and thought she was easily beaten. But Mr. Foy was right in his forecast. - It was shown last Saturday what "boxes" with limited sail area could do, but Maid-of Kent was unlimited as to sail area. "Kindred Clubs-Sailing" was proposed by Rear-Commodore Macken in a very happy manner and replied to by Messrs. F. Doran (S.A.S.C), W. M. Ford (Commodore S.D.C.C.), Lewis Levy (hon.sec. S.S.C.), Jas. M'Murtrie (P.H.S.C.), and others. "The Executive Officers" was proposed by Mr. N. Johnson, and replied to by the various officials. 'The toast list was interspersed with songs and recitations, the meeting being brought to a close with "Auld Lang Syne."
The discussion as to "why Shamrock lost" still continues in the "Yachtsman," and the correspondence is well ,worth perusal, though some of' the correspondents seem inclined to descend to personalties in order to try and emphasize their own views. Last week the owners of the two well-known 20 footers Mercia and Laurel agreed to' exchange boats, Mr, Crane of course giving something "to boot" for Mercia. Mr. Doran has had a marvellously successful season in the ex-Aucklander Mercia, and last Saturday signalised the change of ownership by winning a heat and the 'final of the S.F.S. handicap.
Next season Mr. A. W. Crane will be seen in command of a 30-footers, built from English designs. Several other genetlemen are also going in for 30-footers, so that we ought to be treated to some first-class "class" racing prior to the flag regatta in 1901. The "Yachtsman" of February 1 has an excellent photo, of the New Zealand flier Rainbow. The Auckland 4-2-footer Thelma is also pictured in black and white.
The same journal also says an invention has been submitted, for inspection by a gentleman who is anxious to put it to practical test. The paper continues: "Without 'giving away' the inventor's idea, we may say that the subject is a modification of the double-hulled type of boat. The idea is distinctly ingenious, and has proved a pronounced success in model form. As a racing craft, it would be useless, of course, under our rule, but to those who love the exhilaration of speed it might well appeal as a promising 'one design' type. We shall be glad to communicate the inventor's address.
Here's a-chance for Mr. Mark Foy. He says he is going to try another Flying Fish, and is sure that he will be able to cope with the rater type, in any weather. We all known how the Fish can "fly" when she "gets her day." Notes. (1900, March 31). Australian Town and Country Journal(NSW : 1870 - 1907), p. 52. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article71378379
SAILING.
Commodore Mark Foy entertained the officers and committee of the Sydney Flying Squadron on Saturday last. About 100 took advantage of the invitation, including representatives of all the prominent sailing clubs of the Slate. The scene of the gathering was Mr. Foy's picnic grounds, Moyston Park, Killara, situated at some distance from the Railway Station, and by the time the park was reached, the sons of Neptune were discussing the benefits of walking as a winter pastime.
The weather was too damp for out-door sports, which caused what would have been an interesting cricket match to be abandoned. After an experience with a photographer, who shot the bolt with a ' tres bong bah' (this is Italian), an adjournment was made to the pavilion, where various indoor games were indulged in. The quoit match was won by Percy Holmes, and he was the richer by a sov., presented, as usual, by Mark Foy. Chris. Webb ran second — Donnelly and Australian again.
The horse racing was very exciting, the yells of the supporters of the various crocks being deafening, reminding one of the uproar caused by pony punters at Robbery Park or Lillie Bridge. Bob Jones was bookie and did not strike a skinner during the afternoon ; he attempted to do a guy with Birnie, but the punters were too fly. The most amusing item of the afternoon's sports was a pillow light, on a beam placed at a height of about 5ft from the door. Mark Foy and Messenger were first astride the beam; the former soon found the floor. The battle between those men of weight, 'Broncho' Jervis and 'King' Collins, of the squadron, was fast and furious, the financial man at length hitting the floor with his head, which quite spoilt the parting of his abundant crop of hair. A go between a representative of the Press and of aquatics proved, as usual, that the Press is all powerful.
During the various games calls to the bar were frequent. At about 6 o'clock the picnickers sat down to dinner, all being in good fettle to do an Edmund Barton act. A long list of toasts was proposed, etc. , the speeches being very wearisome, some of the speakers being so windy that, if used to good effect during the season, it would necessitate the shortening of canvas on the boats. Mr. A. Martin gave the most sensible speech of the evening — concise and appertaining to the sport of sailing; whilst that remarkable sailing enthusiast, the like of whom can hardly be found on the globe, Mark Foy, replied to all the eulogisms with very few words. George Dew endeavoured to give a short history of the club, but had evidently carried away his rudder, and failed to make any headway with his oration. A musical programme fortunately came to the rescue, Matt. Fitzgerald officiating at the piano. The tramp back to the station began at about 9.30, the climb being safely negotiated, although, through carrying too much sail, several of the craft turned turtle. They city was reached close on 11 o'clock, all voting Mark Foy a jolly good fellow.
Mark Foy has always proved himself an enthusiastic supporter of the open boats. He has no time for those hybrid craft, the raters. George Dew should not attempt to orate on any matter verging on the historical without searching old records and making a few notes. Here's a little information.
The original Sydney Flying Squadron was inaugurated in 1891, and collapsed, owing to bad management and the absence of Mark Foy in England during season 1892 and 1893. In April, 1894, the present Sydney Flying Squadron was started, Mr. Foy moving in the matter on his return to Sydney. Mr. A. W. Griffith, at that time hon. treasurer of the Johnstone's Bay Sailing Club, took up the secretaryship temporarily until officers were appointed. The first race of the resuscitated club was held October 13, 1894, and was won by Olinda, 18ft (T. Colebrook, jun.), with Cygnet, 18ft (T. Colebrook, sen.), and Aztec, 18ft (R. Cameron), second and third respectively. The hon. secretaries were Messrs. W. H. Pacey and A. E. G. Thomas. Put this in your note book, Mr. Secretary.
Protests loud and strong were heard when a speaker asserted that the Johnsone's Bay Sailing, when in its prime, was the greatest club that ever existed in Port Jackson. The speaker was correct, for the Johnstone's Bay club gained a world-wide reputation, and for number of members and boats, and the large programme of races which was carried out each season, is not even ap-proached by the present day clubs. More over, the club ran on its own bottom and had no enthusiastic supporter like Mack Foy, without whose support the Squadron would only be small beans. The cause of the collapse of the John-stone's Bay Sailing Club was not the want of funds, for they have still a good credit balance, but the alienating of the boat owners through the action of the club's commodore. Mr. George Holmes, during his racing career, has won over £4500 ; this is irrespective of 'pots.' A speaker compared George Dew to Joey Carruthera, and Charley Collins to George Reid. The Johnstone's Bay Sailing Club takes the credit of ' creating ' open boat racing. Well, I have a dim recollection of big fields of open boats (not half-deckers, miscalled open boats) rowing under the auspices of the Balmain Sailing Club; also the large fleet which raced under the flag of the Port Jackson Sailing. This was years before the "Craigeilee" crew had the row with the Port Jackson Club, which caused the formation of the Johnstone's Bay Sailing Club. F. W.J., etc. will soon be saying that yachting was introduced into Sydney Harbor by the Prince Alfreds. In a report of the Johnstone's Bay Sailing Club it was mentioned that some of the skippers were leaving the dingies for faster craft. SAILING. (1901, May 1). Sydney Sportsman (Surry Hills, NSW : 1900 - 1954), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article167266556
In the last number the " Yachtsman "says that the following challenge has been received by the Medway Y.C.: - "To Medway Y.C, Rochester, England. Hamilton Dobbie, through Johnston's Bay Sailing Club, Sydney, Australia, challenges you to sail boat race, 22ft. over all, on Port Jackson waters next year." The committee of the Medway Club met and considered the challenge, and finally decided to reply as follows - " Regret cannot accept challenge, letter follows. (Signed) Secretary Medway Y.C." The reasons actuating the club in declining were (1) the committee feel that it is not obliged to consider a challenge to race in foreign waters whilst the club holds the Anglo-Australian shield.(2) That, although the challenge is not actually lodged, Mr. Mark Foy has written both the commodore and the hon. Secretary of the club, stating that he is building a boat in Sydney which he hopes to have in England by May next." The editor of the" Yachtsman " remarks that he has reason to believe that Mr. Foy’s new boat will be of the "Maid of Kent " type, and that, if this be correct, Mr. Foy has somewhat changed his mind since racing last. SPORTING NEWS. (1899, March 4). The West Australian(Perth, WA : 1879 - 1954), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article3207963
YACHTING ENTERPRISE.
MR. MARK FOY'S ENGLISH VISIT.
SYDNEY, Sunday. Mr. Mark Foy, who leaves for England it the end of April, will take Chris Webb the well known skipper of the Sydney yacht Australian to sail his Southerly Buster in an endevour to regain the Anglo-Australian shield which was lost by The Irex to the Maid of Kent a few seasons ago. The best working yachtsmen available in Sydney will also go to England as The Southerly Buster's crew. YACHTING ENTERPRISE. (1908, February 3). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article10668891
Southerly Buster adorns the front of this Dinner Menu - courtesy Australian National Maritime Museum online library of digistised materials. Item No.: ANMS0204[006] Dinner Menu
Port Jackson Pleasure Fleets - 5. And 6
The Building Of Ships, Intercolonial Races, 22 Footers, 18 Footers And Mr Mark Foy
PORT JACKSON PLEASURE FLEETS No. 5.
WRITTEN FOR THE 'EVENING NEWS'
BY LANYARD.
'Aboard! aboard! For the wind sets in the shoulder of your sail, and you are stag'd for.'— Shakespeare.BY LANYARD.
THE BUILDING OF THE SHIP
It may be asked where was the mosquito fleet all this time; what were the 'kids', doing with their canvas dingeys. The canvassers were the cradles of the successful sailing men of to-day, and some of the boats were really no bigger than a cradle. The youngsters built the frame-work of their tiny craft out of any odds and ends in the way of timber, they could pick up: the wooden hoops of casks often did duty as ribs; mother's clothesline supplied standing rigging and sheets; and those enamelled iron advertisements, which proclaim the virtues of Dr. So-and-so's pills or cough drops, made splendid fins or centreboards. Mother could generally be counted on for the sails, and the calico skin was acquired somehow or other. Out of Berry's Bay there sailed one Saturday afternoon a merry crew of three little boys in their home-made dingey, with their lunch made fast halfway up the mast to keep it dry; they 'skited' as little boys will 'skite.' and they boasted, of the speed and weatherly qualities of their little bark. No millionaire in his palatial, steam yacht was prouder of his vessel; no millionaire half so happy. They moored in a snug little cove down the harbor; they scampered on the white beach; they bathed in the clear water, and then lunched in the shade of the sandstone rocks.
It may be asked where was the mosquito fleet all this time; what were the 'kids', doing with their canvas dingeys. The canvassers were the cradles of the successful sailing men of to-day, and some of the boats were really no bigger than a cradle. The youngsters built the frame-work of their tiny craft out of any odds and ends in the way of timber, they could pick up: the wooden hoops of casks often did duty as ribs; mother's clothesline supplied standing rigging and sheets; and those enamelled iron advertisements, which proclaim the virtues of Dr. So-and-so's pills or cough drops, made splendid fins or centreboards. Mother could generally be counted on for the sails, and the calico skin was acquired somehow or other. Out of Berry's Bay there sailed one Saturday afternoon a merry crew of three little boys in their home-made dingey, with their lunch made fast halfway up the mast to keep it dry; they 'skited' as little boys will 'skite.' and they boasted, of the speed and weatherly qualities of their little bark. No millionaire in his palatial, steam yacht was prouder of his vessel; no millionaire half so happy. They moored in a snug little cove down the harbor; they scampered on the white beach; they bathed in the clear water, and then lunched in the shade of the sandstone rocks.
The nor'-easter was but half-hearted on the way home, and it died away altogether shortly after they had passed Pinchgut. Someone said something about a southerly 'buster,' but the urchin at the helm was not afraid of 'busters. 'Why, me and. 'Muzzy,' he said, scornfully, 'could bring her through anything.' The first puff heeled the dingey over, and she took a big drink over her gunwale; another puff, and she drank a deeper draught. The bailer was frantically at work, but the little boat, with fluttering sails, gradually settled down. On board H.M.S. Royal Arthur, a boatswain's mate piped a boat away, and the youngsters were soon taken on board, and sent forward, where kind-hearted tars' treated them to not cocoa and biscuits.When the time came to leave their new friends the little fellows pulled their forelocks to the spick and span officer of the watch:, and Muzzy, stepping forward, expressed his thanks for the rescue of 'me and my mates,' and a wish if ever the-Royal Arthur got into trouble; that they might be there to help.
One of the present members of the R.S.Y.S. tells of a canvas dingey that he and some of his companions built at Balmain, when they were children. With the hospitality which it is to be hoped is the characteristic of all yachting men, they yielded to the request of an admiring little boy to take him for a “ride”. His sister stood on the shore assuring him that he would be drowned; and what mother would say, as he had his best boots on!
A boatbuilder came that evening to complain that the boat had been left on his skids, and that people might think he had built her, which so hurt the 'owner's feelings that he accepted an offer of 7s 6d from the butcher boy, who took the boat away on his horse, but space must be found later for the doings of the small fry.
Waitangi and Electra.
A CHALLENGE FROM VICTORIA.
When the racing for first-class yachts was on the wane, the second and third classes were fairly busy. Jack Want's Longford-designed and built Guinevere, Mr. C. A. Benbow’s Harpy, built by George Ellis, Mr. Jackson's Violet, Mr. Knox's English designed Sirrocco, The Ione, the La Belle, the Doris, the Sao and the old Australian kept the pot boiling. The La Belle had been built by George Ellis, and was really an overgrown skiff, with a deck and a counter. A lump of lead on the keel was substituted for the centreboard of the skiff. She was undoubtedly fast and scored in the third-class. We now come to a very important period in Port Jackson yachting. A challenge from Victoria in 1886 awakened our first-class yacht owners. The public, whose faith in old champions is always strong, called for the Magic, but there were some who knew a little more than the public, and were not satisfied that the old boat could uphold the supremacy against Sir William Clarke's Janet. Mr. Alfred Milson commissioned Mr. Walter Reeks, a young English designer, fresh from home to put the Waitangi into shape. Persons passing Langford's shed In Berry’s Bay wondered what was being done to that boat. “They're chopping up- half her bottom for fire wood, and padding out the rest like a woman’s figger” said one. “They’re putting plumpers on her.” Said another, “you know what plumpers are; Innthorn-jawed women used to wear them to make their cheeks look plump.” ''She never was much good,” said a third, ''but she’s done for now.” and so on. It is strange how anything like a new idea is resented by the watersiders but are never they the slightest bit abashed when the idea comes off – they knew all along.
The Janet arrived in due course from Melbourne, and in the test races, which were all keenly watched by the public, sailed second to the Waitangi, whilst the Magic finished last, a very novel position for the old champion.
A FORTY-TON CUTTER.
Pleased with the success of the Waitangi, in her altered shape, Mr. Alfred Milson brought out the Era; (40 tons), from designs by Mr. Reeks. She was undoubtedly one of the handsomest yachts ever seen in Port Jackson, and was kept and run in faultless style. Many visitors to the colony were entertained on board by her owner, who besides being a keen and capable sportsman, has always been a charming host. If you bump up against a yachting man in England who has been in Sydney he is sure to inquire of Alfred Milson, and tell you of the jolly time he had on board the Era. She completely out classed the old boats, but there was on the stocks a vessel, also after Mr. Reeks designs, that was to give the Era some hard races and an occasional beating. The races between the Era and the Volunteer, will long be remembered by those who take an interest in yachting in Port Jackson. At the Centennial International Regatta, in Hobson's Bay, this State was represented by the Era, and the Volunteer. The Miranda left for Melbourne about the same time as the Era and the two yachts met in Twofold Bay, the latter having made the faster run down the coast. She was able shortly afterwards to take refuge, in Waterloo Bay, whilst the Miranda met the full force of a violent southeast gale, and after three days combat with it, during which she lost her supply of fresh water, and sprang a serious leak, it was decided to bear away for Eden. For a couple of days the ship's company had only soda water and whisky to drink, a state of affairs that was really worse than might appear to some, for there were several teetotallers in the crew. Jack Want was not on board; he was then looming big in the political world, and his increasing practice at the Bar made it difficult for him to devote much time to yacht racing, though he frequently continued to spend a week-end on the water.
Mr. Milson’s Era.
THE BULLY OF THE ROAD.
It was on one of these trips that he was nearly run down by a carelessly-steered steamer, and he expressed his feelings by styling her the bully of the road. The late Mr. Justice Windeyer, who was one of his guests, was rather taken with the epithet, and when Jack Want appeared in the Vice- Admiralty Court next day for a steamer, that had run down a sailing vessel, his Honor did not hesitate to refer to the former as the bully of the road. “He can thank me,” muttered the learned counsel, “for teaching him that word.”
But if the owner was not on board the Miranda of the memorable voyage, his boon companion, Mr. Jack Macdonald, represented him, so, though she had to give up the attempt, we can rely that no effort was spared to get the big centreboarder to Melbourne. The little Assegai arrived too late for the regatta. She also met with rough weather, and for two days her crew were without fresh water. On the first day the Iduna, a Reeks designed Sydney built boat, which was then a Victorian representative, gained first place on her time allowance in the race for yachts 20 tons and upwards, the Era and Volunteer being second and third, but owing to some mistake about the course the race was ordered to be re-sailed, with the result that the Era won and the Volunteer took second prize.
The Akarana, from New Zealand, won the race for yachts between 5 and 10 tons; she afterwards came to Sydney, where she was the pioneer of the successful invasion of our waters by New Zealand yachts. Sir W. J. Clarke, with a view to afford the Assegai a chance of a race after having gone so far, gave a trophy, which, however, a Victorian yacht won. If there is one thing the Sydney sailing man is proud of, it is the centreboard boat of local design and build. On her own waters she has, except when occasionally taken down by a Queensland boat of similar design, held her own against all-comers On other waters she does not appear to be so happy.
The story of the defeat of Mr Mark Foy’s Irex in England by the Maid of Kent is sad reading, and at the regatta in Hobson's Bay Mr Paul’s Varuna could get no nearer than third, while the late Mr. M'Murtrie's Ellie was unplaced. Shortly afterwards, Mr. P. W. Creagh's Aileen was badly beaten by the Victorian Mayflower, a boat that afterwards figured unsuccessfully in Port Jackson, under the name Kanahook. The writer has no wish to decry the undoubted qualities of the local boats, and, if he occasionally touches a minor key, it is to remind some of our younger boating men that there are good boats, good builders, and good sailing men elsewhere –
(To Be Continued,)
Illustrations: Waitangi and Electra. Mr. J Milson’s Era.
PORT JACKSON PLEASURE FLEETS. (1907, November 9). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article113897607
(To Be Continued,)
Illustrations: Waitangi and Electra. Mr. J Milson’s Era.
PORT JACKSON PLEASURE FLEETS. (1907, November 9). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article113897607
MR. MARK FOY AS YACHTSMAN.
Mr. Mark Foy, who is in Sydney at present, hopes, on his return, after again visiting California, where he possesses extensive interests, to purchase or build a sailing craft. He speaks feelingly of his old boating days on Port Jackson. He is the doyen of the Sydney Flying Squadron, which he founded. PERSONAL (1921, September 21). Referee (Sydney, NSW : 1886 - 1939), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article121159386
SAILING
DUMARESQ CUP Mr. Mark Foys Skill
(By Fair Lead)
The complimentary benefit race tendered to Mr. Will Hedge, starter of the two 18ft clubs, proved one of the finest contests of the season. There was sufficient strength In the south-east breeze to test the seamanship of the crews, and Interest was stimulated by the reappearance of Mr. Mark Foy at the helm of the ex-Queensland champion Pastime, also of Charlie Dunn, after a long absence In command of the new boat Crescent VIII. Mr. Foy put up a great struggle right round the course with Desdemona and crossed the finishing line with his speedy rival astern. Rear-Admlrnl Dumaresq was again seen to advantage In Mr. O. Taylor's Keriki. The naval chief has considerably enhanced his popularity amongst the sailing fraternity by his masterly handling of the several craft In which he has appeared during the season, Mascotto and Kismet numbered several ladies amongst the crow, who appeared to relish the experience. A THRILLING CONTEST The race over the triangular portion of the course was fine, and Interest was sustained to the finish, where Goldlng registered her third win of the season by the narrow margin of 7sec. from Mavis, capably handled by A. S. Roberts. Working across from Taylor Bay Mavis led the way until approaching Shark Island, whore Florrie deprived Mavis of tho lead. Golding came along In fine style, and after Mavis had again headed Florrie Skipper R, Beashel outwitted his rivals and cased away Into the final mile with a lead of 25sec. Always a flier with the wind abeam, Mavis made a great effort to overtake Golding, and almost succeeded, whilst Florrie, lightly crowed, finished with a fine burst of speed 15soc. behind Mavis. By her win Golding secures a log-In for the Dumaresq Cup, presented for annual competition by the Rear-Admiral. SAILING (1922, March 28). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 5 (FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article225224810
CHRIS WEBB MAKES SAILING HISTORY
WINS BACK MARK FOY CUP TO N.S.W. : QUEENSLAND TAKES THIRD, FOURTH AND FIFTH POSITIONS
(By AVON.)
THE EIGHTEEN-FOOTERS STARTING FOR THE AUSTRALIAN CHAMPIONSHIP AND MARK FOY CUP ON SYDNEY HARBOR ON SATURDAY
N.S.W. has regained the Australian 18ft. Championship and Mark-Foy Challenge Cup, lost in 1020-21 to Colin Clark's Vision at Sydney; to Chris. Garland's Mele Bllo at /Perth in 1021-22; and to Vision at Brisbane in 1922-23, It remained for Chris. Webb to win tho handsome trophy back to the Mother State on Saturday with H. C. Press. . The craft had a complete victory, beating Awaya (N.S.W.) into second place by 2min 47sec; while Vione(Q.) finished third, 4min 6sec behind the winner.
After his memorable victory with Australian on the Swan River in 1913-14, Webb did not have much sailings on Port Jackson. Owing to a difference with some of the officials of one of the Sydney 18ft clubs, he dropped out of racing until 1922-23. He was then offered the control of George Press' H. C. Press, and sailed her with moderate success in four races in which he started. It was not until the present season that Webb forgot all past troubles and threw his wholehearted support into the sport, in which he is recognised as one of the greatest skippers that N.S.W. or Australia has ever produced. This* he demonstrated on more than one Occasion, having won the championship of the Sydney Club, and on Saturday added the Australian title, defeating seven other clever manipulators of the tillers. ? It was a wonderful performance over which the great crowds on the five official steamers cheered most enthusiastically.
A MODEST SKIPPER.
Webb said that he merely won because of the magnificent way in which the crew worked. 'I give the credit of the victory,' he declared, 'to my for'ard hands, the Pearce brothers, to the mainsheet hand, George Press, and to the sitters on the gun'ale, , who answered every call with wonderful precision,'. Webb started sailing open boats on Sydney Harbor almost 40 years ago. and has sailed all classes of boats, from 6ft dinghies to 22-footers. and it is claimed that he has won more prizes than any other skipper. Webb was in the zenith of his fame when a young man. In the seasons- 1897 to 1899 he sailed Mr. J. C. Gannon's Australian' in the 18ft events, and he put up the phenomenal performance of winning '35 races, 32 seconds, and about 25 thirds, in all, 90 prizes — a record that the cleverest man afloat might envy. Webb also found time to test the qualities of Lan Taylor's 22-footer, Keriki, and he. also gained victories in the Plover, the 14 -footer. Othello, and the rater, Desdemona. He won an Interstate race with the 14-footer, Irex, and he enjoys the distinction of having sailed boats in almost every State of the Commonwealth. The public has always placed heaps of reliance on him. even when still astern, and a race is well advanced, and he has justified' this confidence, for he is seldom unplaced.
A REMARKABLE YEAR.
This year has been a remarkable one for Webb, for on Anniversary Day, in the Interstate handicaps, he won . the afternoon race by 24sec from Life Saver, and was only beaten by 2sec in-the morning event by Awaya, which had a start of 21min. Webb captured the Sydney Club's 18ft championship, and: to date has landed £144 in prize-money for the owner of H. C. Press, George Press, of National Park. '
THE RACE DESCRIBED.
Mr. E. Carmichael got the fleet away to a magnificent flying start with Life Saver in the van followed by Australia, Ou-la-lah, Vione, Queenslander III., Sylvania and H. C. Press. The breeze at the time was light from the east, shortly afterwards veered to the nor'-east with the tide at flood. The first to split tacks was Australia and the' move was also followed by H. O. Press and Vione on the port Btreteh. Life Saver held on a bit longer on the starboard stretch and then stood upon the port leg. She successfully crossed ahead of Sylvania and Australia,: but unfortunately the throat halyards carried away. Duncan and his crew, however, did good work and eoon got. the craft under weigh again. She,' however, did not go very far when the halyards came down again. Duncan, however, was not dismayed and soon got moving again, but at the tail end of the fleet. Awaya then stood out and led a bunch comprising Sylvania, Queenslander and Ou-la-lah working towards Bradley's Head. Australia came across and forced Dunn's charge to pull under her stern. This gave Australia the leadership, as Vione, which was lightly crewed, also forced. Awaya about. Shortly afterwards Watts threw Vione round and stood away, again on the port stretch.
H. C. PRESS TAKES THE LEAD.
Webb kept clear of the shore and by some nice cross-tacking in mid-stream had H. C. Press moving very nicely, and by securing some nice slants of wind caught Vione and forced her about. The veteran held the Wooloomooloo boat nicely up in the light air, and created a big surprise by the clever way he brought iiis charge out well ahead of Awaya and Australia. This was off Bradley's Reef. Ou-la-lah was sailing splendidly, and after standing close ? to Bradley's Head came out on the port stretch, , where she was crossed by Australia, which was then 'in third place. H. C. Press crossed .Taylor Bay with 30sec to spare from Vione,' and Awaya took up third place from Australia. Awaya, which was to windward of Vione, gained second place, but did not hold the . position for long. On the next stretch Vione .was again second boat. At Chowder Head the order was, H. C. Press, Vione, Awaya, Ou-la-lnh', Australia, Queenslander, Sylvania and Life Saver. H. C. Press sailed points better to windward than any other boat, and passing George's Head increased her lead. Awaya again outpaced Vione and took the second. Oula-lah was fourth anQ Australia fifth. A great battle for second honors followed, and Oulalah .was .successful.
AT THE NEW LIGHT,
H. C. Press was first to reach the initial mark off the Sow and Pigs at 4hr 12mln 20sec, and she eased sheets lmin 30sec before Ou-la-lah, which rounded at. 4.13.50. Awaya was third at 4.14.6, Australia fourth at 4.16.0, and Vione fifth at 4.16.21. ' Queenslander, Sylvania and Life Saver ? brought up the rear. Once clear ' of : the Sow and Pigs Webb ran up a ballooner, spinnaker and ringtail, and the example was also followed by Awaya, who passed Ou-la-lah off the Watson's Bay pile light. The Queensland boat did not sport an extra until abreast of Bottle and Glass. H. C. Press was first to jibe off Shark Island, her time being 41jr- 31min lOscc, and she established a lead of 2min 17sec, Awaya being second at 4.83.27. Ou-la-lah was next at 4.34.55, followed by Vione at 4.35.0. Queenslander was next, and was followed in order by Australia, Life Saver and Sylvania. Crouch did not jibe Queenslander until after rounding the buoy. He did not profit by the move, and was passed .by Australia.
A BRILLIANT SIGHT.
The fleet sported all available extras on the run between the two island, and they presented a magnificent spectacle. H. C. Cress held her advantage of 2min -17sec rounding the objective off Clark Island at 4hr 42min 9sec. Awaya came round at 4.44.26, Ou-la-lah at 4.46.40; Vione at 4.46.45. Australia was fifth, the order of the others being, Australia, Queenslander, Life Saver and Sylvania. Near Clark Island Life Saver got her ringtail in the water , and was in. consequence passed by Sylvania.
THE BREEZE FRESHENS.
On the second turn to windward for- tha journey round the triangular portion of the course ' the wind shifted to rior'-east and freshened. Working to Taylor Bay, H. O. Press made a stretch to starboard, and then worked out of the flood tide by the means of short legs. Awaya also followed this procedure. The further the' boats went the greater the gap H. C. Press established, and she had the race well in hand. Still Webb took no undue risks. The craft eased sheets at the Taylor Bay mark at. 5hr 2min 20?ec, having a lead of 3min Msec, Awaya rounding at 5hr 5min 86seo. Vione was third at 6.7.31, followed by Ou-la-lah at 6.7.43. Queenslander was fifth, supported by 'Australia and Life Saver. Slyvania capsized when near the buoy. . Balloon , canvas was carried to Shark Island (second time), and H. C. Press still held' a lead of 3min 16sec, rounding at 6hr 11min 31sec. CHRIS WEBB MAKES SAILING HISTORY (1924, February 6). Referee (Sydney, NSW : 1886 - 1939), p. 14. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article136615145
THE MARK FOY SAILING CHALLENGE CUP.
TO BE COMPETED FOR TO-DAY BY THE 18-FOOTERS. THE MARK FOY SAILING CHALLENGE CUP. (1927, January 29). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 18. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16350860
Horses
Old Honor Bright, who was thought to have a chance of winning one of the Cups over the Murray four years ago, won a double for Mr.H. V. Foy at Parkes last week. The oldgrandmaster — Crystal horse receiving first notice in the Nagungaloo and Welter Handicaps.At the settling over the above meeting Mr.Mark Foy notified his intention of donating a 100-guinea cup, to be competed for at the next annual race meeting of the next annual race of the club. TURF NOTES. (1896, April 17). Albury Banner and Wodonga Express (NSW : 1896 - 1939), p. 18. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article99430589
Mark Foy was present at Hawkesbury to see his horse, April Fool, win the Autumn Handicap. He is credited with having backed him for a fair amount. SOUTHERN SPORTING By Telegraph. (1899, April 3). The North Queensland Register (Townsville, Qld. : 1892 - 1905), p. 39. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article84405127
Mr. H. C. Danger's most recent English purchase, Positano, by St. Simon from Ponsa, and a horse purchased in England by Mr. Mark Foy, arrived in Sydney on board the Culgoa. Mr. Foy's horse is by Bendigo from Barley, by Barcaldine, &c.Both horses stood the voyage well, and are now located in the quarantine reserve at Randwick. Racing Notes. (1897, January 30). The Queenslander(Brisbane, Qld. : 1866 - 1939), p. 227. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20769313
Cars, motor launches and 1903 trip to:
MOTORING IN FRANCE AND AMERICA. Mr. Mark Foy returned to Sydney yesterday by the Friederich der Grosse after a tour round the world extending over nine months. During that time he visited China, Japan, America, England, and the Continent. When seen yesterday he stated that although he had enjoyed his holiday he was very glad to get back to Sydney with its familiar faces, its bright sunshine, and clear skies. RETURN OF MR. MARK FOY. (1903, February 9). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14483446
MOTORING 'ON THE WATER.' The latest information received in Adelaide from England states that the King who has always taken a keen interest in motoring on land, has recently entered with enthusiasm on the new development of the motor, which is seen now on the waters along the English coasts. There does not seem to be any valid reason why South Australians should not enter heartily into the same sport, for there is ample sea space to practise on round the shore from Brighton to Largs Bay, while it is a very simple matter to run the motors into safe harbor when rough weather threatens. In European waters the oil launch-a dainty looking boat, containing an engine similar to that of the best French motor cars, capable of speeds running from ten miles up to 30 miles an hour-has long been popular, while of late years its vogue has almost rivalled that of the motor cars. In Sydney the European fashion has already been largely followed, and the Daily Telegraph states that there are today 300 oil launches on "the beautiful harbor." Mr. Mark Foy, a great patron of automobilism, was among the pioneers of the sport there. TOPICS OF THE DAY. (1904, September 21). The Advertiser(Adelaide, SA : 1889 - 1931), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article5007959
"Eumemmering Hall" used to be at 112 Victoria Road, Bellevue Hill before being demolished in the 1950s. It was the home of Mark Foy.
A GOOD IDEA. MARK FOY'S MOTORS, FROM MEDLOW BATH. Regarding the UNRESERVED SALE of the 15 MOTORCARS of Mr. MARK FOY, who is leaving for England, a good idea is suggested, and will be carried out, SALE ON THE LAWNS OF "EUMEMMERING," BELLEVUE HILL, near Tram Terminus, 7th SEPTEMBER-WEDNESDAY. CARS ON VIEW: Sunday, Monday,Tuesday, and Wednesday. INTENDING PURCHASERS can have a trial on the stiff hills in the neighbourhood to show that all is right with the cars. As all the famous Medlow Bath drivers, who are the best in Australia, will be temporarily out of work, and attending the Sale to show the cars off, they will instruct any purchaser of a Car how to drive it, and give them, if it is necessary, ONE WEEK'S LESSON IN THE PARK FOR ONE GUINEA. If you are a buyer you will thusly get the most expert training in driving your purchased Car in a manner as not to injure it until you become your-self thoroughly experienced. Advertising. (1910, September 1). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15183655
MOTOR CARS. On the Lawn of EUMEMMERING HALL, BELLEVUE BILL.Under favoured instructions received from MARK FOY, ESQ., Consequent upon his early departure for Europe,
The Whole of his FINE COLLECTION OF MOTOR CARS, of Various Manufacture.
Including: TWO 18-31 H.P. FIAT CARS. TWO 10-12 H.P. FIAT CARS. 15-22 NEW CABRIOLET STOEWER CAR. This Car has not run 1500 miles, fitted with C..A.A'.Lighting Set, and is the most perfectly fitted Car in the State. TWO 8-10 H.P. DE DION CARS. 12-10 H.P. LIMOUSINE N.A.G. CAR. 10-12 H.P. STOEWER CAR. Detailed particulars set out in Catalogues, which can be obtained from the Auctioneers, or will be posted on application. BARNARD AND CO. will sell by auction as above.
POSITIVELY WITHOUT RESERVE. Auctioneers' Offices, 77 Castlereagh-st. Advertising. (1913, March 31). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15409004
THE LAST AND THE VERY BEST OF SYDNEY'S RESIDENTIAL SITES FOR EVER AND EVER, THE VIEW, less than 4 miles from the Post Office centre, overlooking the harbour from the best point on the Apex of Bellevue Hill, EUMEMMERING ESTATE, BELLEVUE HILL, by fronting Victoria-road and March and Vivian streets, the late residence and grounds of Mr. Mark Foy, erected by him about 30 years ago,
SUBDIVIDED INTO 10 BEAUTIFUL BUILDING SITES, each a gem in a chain of beauty. Drive in your Motor and See Them before the Sale. Ask at the house for a litho. SALE, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 20th, 1921. .COME ALONG, DO. G. Mackellar, Esq., Solicitor to the Estate. Advertising. (1921, October 12). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 15. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15969424
MARK FOY
Man of Motor Mark
To Mr. Mark Foy belongs the honor of being one of the first men to own a motor car in N.S. Wales. Today he is as keen a motorist as ever. He has always recognised the value of the car for opening up the country, and it is on record that his machine was one of the first to make an ascent on the
Blue Mountains, travelling to Mr. Foy's , palace of beauty, Medlow Bath. He joined the Royal Automobile Club of Australia at its initial meeting in March, 1903, and has been a member of that progressive organisation ever since. But he has always declined to accept a seat on the committee on account of pressure of business and his frequent travels abroad.
MR. MARK FOY
He participated in the club's first run to Coogee. Motor-racing has only recently come into vogue in Australia but its possibilities were realised 21 years ago by Mr. Foy. In 1904 he urged the estabishment of a race between Sydney and Melbourne and he offered a valuable silver cup for competition. Though the proposed race did not take place, Mr. Foy's suggestion paved the way for the Dunlop Co. to move for the inauguration of the first reliability contest in Australia. MARK FOY (1925, October 4). Truth (Sydney, NSW : 1894 - 1954), p. 5. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article168711443
More Local Connections
FURLOUGH HOUSE DANCE
Every success attended the efforts of the committee which arranged the dance held at the Wentworth Cafe last, evening in aid of the funds of Furlough House, Narrabeen. All the available tables were booked long before-hand, and indeed there could have been hun-dreds more tickets sold if there had been the accommodation. Mrs. Spencer Brunton was the president of the committee, Lady Maitland hon. treasurer, Mrs. Herbert Ross and Mrs.E. W. Fenner hon secretaries. Among thosewho entertained were Mrs. Spencer Brunton, Lady Maitland, Mr. Hollis, Mrs. L. Davis, Miss Nathan, Mrs. Acton, Lady Fuller, Mrs. A.Brodziak, Miss Anning, Mrs. Maas, Mrs. For-dyce Wheeler, Mrs. Rouse, Mrs. Francis, Mr.Green, Mr. T. P. Carr, Dr. P. Morris, Mr. W.Brash Macarthur, Mr. Herbert Nelson, Mr.Bolton, Major Donaldson, Mrs. Jessica Lee,Mr. Chessher, Mr. Weingarth, Mrs. C. E.Waters, Mrs. Henly, Mrs. H. A. Wolridge, Mr.F. Albert, Mr. Treacy, Mr. C. Kaye, Mr. Watt,Mr. Gardiner, Mr. Stewart, Mr. Richards, Mr.Vickers, Mr. Hardie, Mr. Relffer, Miss Ellis,Miss Prince, Miss Forest, Miss Pearce, Mr.Lance Giddings, Mr. C. B. Sandford, Mr. Fesq,Mrs. H. Russell, Mr. Reed, Mr. Browne, Mr.Duncan, Miss Rolin, Mrs. Arnott, Mrs. Kelly,Mr. H. R. Allen, Mr. Bertram, Mr. Mark Foy. FURLOUGH HOUSE DANCE. (1921, November 12). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15980756
1936’s Pittwater Regatta
PITTWATER REGATTA. UNFAVOURABLE WEATHER. SAILING EVENTS SPOILT. Unfavourable weather spoilt the Pittwater Regatta on Saturday. Clouds hung low over the hills surrounding the normally picturesque arm of Broken Bay, and rain swept over the water to the accompaniment of variable pull of wind from every point of the compass, until late in the afternoon when there was a dry spell. In the circumstances, the various sections of the regatta had a stiff task to instil life and colour into the scene. Aeroplanes provided the liveliest interlude After a delay, caused by bad weather, iii machines competed in a race from Mascot C. H. Fischer won by five seconds from R. It Hirst. The latter, with N. Mulroney and ' K. Swain, then gave a display of formation flying and aerobatics, after Mulroney and Swain engaged in a mock attack on a "warship." As missiles from the 'planes fell there were realistic explosions close to the target which finally burst into flames. Sjo-Ro, with a "sail-over" In the morning an only one opponent In the afternoon, was a dual winner. Ozone, against much stronger opposition also had two firsts, and Currawong, Alice, Cygne Pandora, and Sarita each had wins. Of the motor craft. Diana, with a win and dead-heat for first; Argo, a first and a thin Cariny a an equal first and a third, Wyvern and Sinabada. each a first and a second, and Zelma were most successful. Rowing events were Included In the programme amateurs rowing over a course from Newport to the flagship, and professionals from Church Point to the flagship. Although the rain made conditions unpleasant, comparatively smooth water allowed all events to be carried out without a hitch. The morning rowing event, the heavy boat championship of New South Wales, provided a great race, H. Robson, of Parramatta River, winning from M. Bell by half length. G. Cook being third, half a length further back. V. Fox won the outrigger handicap for amateurs, and he also rowed No. 2 In the winning unclassified four-oar crew.
SAILING. Mrs. E. G. Greig memorial handicap, for local boats, to 22ft overall length: Biirlta (R Jeffery), scr, 1; Frolic Junior (E. Bell), 10m. 2 won by lin 15s. Owing to the light wind, the race was shortened by eliminating the second round of the course. Palm Beach Handicap, for big class yachts, nominated or lady skippers, White Horse Whisks trophy. 9 miles: Sjo-Ro (Mrs. C. Plowman), lim, only starter. Sailed over course In lh 38m 45s. "Mischief" memorial handicap, for boats of Sydney Amateur Sailing Club and Lake Macquarie Yacht Club, nominated skippers-women or men trophy presented by Captain S. Spain-6 nautical miles: Ozone (F. Barlow), scr. 1: Blue Peter (Ge«. Morris). 4m. 2; Caprice (J. Pfeiffer), 2m 3; Epacris (F. A. Moss), 8m. 4; Adina (J. Young). 9m, 5: St. Thais (J. Bridgland. 10m. 6. Won bv 5m 42s. with 8m 12s between second and third. Finishing times: Ozone, lh 15m 48s; Blue Peter í,1? 2Jfi,30s; i.""]'!"' 'i1 20m 4S" Epacris, lh .Uni los; Adina, lh 45m 15s: St. Thais, lh 4Bm 30s: Womerah lh 51m 10s. Light airs practically eliminated most of the time allowances. Blue Peter protested against Ozone for alleged breach of the port and starboard tack nile
Schooner Wanderer Handicap, for deep-keel cruising yachts, nominated skippers.-Currawong fÇoIIn Prlritîl. 4m. 1; Valiant (C. Foxall). 7m. 2 Allc« 'R. labor), scr.. 3. Won by 5m 23s. with sm, u,7s between second and third. Adiusted finishing times: Currawong, lh 42m 10s: Valiant, Matangl also started.
One-design Vee Jay Class Sailing Boats Handicap morning race, five miles.-Cygnet (P. C. Taylor), 7m. 1: Pandora I P. de. Burgh 2m. 2. Won Sv F'nl»hlnir times: Cygnet, 2h 8m; Pandora, 2h J3m. Five started. John Roche Memorial Trophy. Big Class Yachts Handicap. 1: Narburra (A. E. Glazcbrook). 2: Steady Hour (F. Harris). 3. "A. D. Walker" Speedboat Handicap (all comers). 3m-Wyvern (J. c. (Parramatta). 3.Mark Foy Men's Single Sculls Heavyboat Handicap, im.-First heat: G. Cool:, ls, 1; Gi'Ash, 11s. 2; H. Price. 30s, 3 Second heat: J. Dickens. 14s. 1: A. Evers, 6s. 2; J. Erickson, 2s. 3. Final: H. Price, 1; J. Dickens and G. Ash (dead heat), 2;' G. Cook, 4. Won by a length. Newport Women's Gladstone Skiff Handicap, J-3m.-Miss D. Hammond. 22s, 1; Miss J.Gilroy, scr.. 2; G. Stebbing,- 22s. 3, 1 . Hydro Majestic Women's and Men's Double Sculls, Miss G. Stubbing and G. Ash. 6s, 1; Miss M. Wilnon and C. Wilson, 2s, 2; Miss D; Hammond and H. Towns, 12s. 3.Newport Youths' Single Sculls Handicap, 5m.-P. Porter, 18s 1: W. Solomon, scr., 2;, G.' Wilson, 2s. 3. AMATEUR ROWING. Unclassified Fours. 3m.-Pittwater No. 1 (N. Fox, V. Fox. A. Fryer. C. Williams, B. McFec cox), I; Pittwater No. 2 IB. Hudson, H. Hickson, F. Smith. G. Hanlen. C. Hickson cox), 2. Men's Best and Best Handicap (outriggers). 3m. -V. Fox. 20s, 1: N. Fox, 12s, 2; A. Fryer, 30s. 3. Gladstone Skiff Handicap (A class), 3m.-F. Smith, 12s, 1; A. Fryer, 11s, 2; C. Williams, scr. 3. Gladstone Skiff Handicap (B class), lm.-G. Leach, scr.. 1: H. Shepherd, 7s. 2; T. Shepherd, 4s, 3. . AEROPLANE RACE. Aerial Derby, trophy presented by Charles E. Blanks (Mascot. Palm Beach flagship), 28m.C. H. Fischer (Cirrus Moth). 1: R. M. Hirst (Genalrco), 2: T. R. Swain (Gipsy Moth). 3; T. Mulroney (Gipsy Moth), 1: D. Macarthur Onslow (Hornet Moth), 5. PITTWATER REGATTA. (1936, December 28). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 9. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article27988276
From - Historical Parish Maps – Narrabeen 1905 – updated 21st January, 1914 – signed by C G Ireland