Early in the 1970’s, Ernestine Bayer, her husband and daughter Tina moved to New Hampshire from Pennsylvania, where Ernie had made a name for herself and for women’s rowing on Boathouse Row.  We owe a lot to this gal and to her family --  if you’re interested in learning more about the “Mother of US Women’s Rowing”, you might like to order a copy of her biography from us.

Meanwhile and shortly after the Bayers’ arrival in New Hampshire, their paths crossed with those of Arthur and Marj Martin (now Burgard), Alden’s founders.  Ernie got hooked on an Alden and it became a big part of her life.  In attendance at the first Isles of Shoals seven mile event in 1972, Ernie suggested that perhaps an Alden Owners’ Association be considered to bring the many folks together who were all impassioned about their Aldens.

In 1974, the Alden Ocean Shell Association was incorporated.  But between the time the idea was vocalized in 1972 and the organization formalized – Ernie was in action and working toward the development of an Alden race during the Head of the Charles Regatta in Cambridge, Massachusetts.  This annual race of Aldens and other open water sculls just before the Head of the Charles is known as the EBRoC and is enthusiastically attended every year.

Between the 1975 and 2005, the AOSA grew to become the largest rowing club in the United States.  And as the organization developed, time passed and the recreational rowing scene changed.  Arthur Martin (Alden’s founder) passed away, new manufacturers introduced other open water rowing shells and it was decided to open up the Alden organization to include anyone who rowed an open water shell.

In 2006, the International Recreation and Open Water Rowing Association was founded and we urge everyone who participates in our sport to join.  There are many events and activities organized by these folks and it is a fun and spirited group to which to belong.  There are always stories to be told and history to be shared – and a cast of characters to keep everyone amused.

Alden is proud to be a financial sponsor of IROW.  Please consider joining, too.

For more information, please visit www.irow.org