Who are we?
We are a world-wide organization made up of over 4,000 Past
Commodores of qualified yacht clubs.
What do we do?
We strive to preserve the proven traditions, customs and ethics
of yachting so that they may not be lost to those yet to come.
We meet
locally, regionally, nationally and internationally in the true spirit of
camaraderie enhanced by our common bond of having been a Commodore.
How did we get started?
We have grown from a humble beginning in 1953 to a worldwide
organization . Our founder was Ev. G. Henry, Commodore of the Rainier Yacht
Club of Seattle, Washington. In 1954 the organization crossed over the border
into Canada and truly became the "International" Order of the Blue Gavel. Since
that time we have expanded into over eleven countries.
How are we recognized?
We have a distinctive burgee that members are honored to fly and
we have an arm patch worn on the right sleeve of the traditional blazer which
identifies us as Blue Gavel members. IOBG insignia of rank is also worn on the
right sleeve of the blazer.
How are we organized?
Individual members belong to Chapters representing their Yacht
Clubs (or to Districts at large). Geographically located Yacht Club Chapters
are bound together as Districts.
Chapters and Districts are
currently located in Canada, New Zealand, the Philippines, the United Kingdom
and the United States.
We have members in Australia, Japan, Mexico, the
Cook Islands, the Marianas, the Marshall Islands and Singapore. In addition, we
have many individual members throughout the world.
How are we governed?
We are governed by a Board of Directors comprised of District
Directors, Regional V/Ps, and other elected officers such as President, various
Vice Presidents, Secretary and Treasurer, as well as International officers
representing each member country. Districts are represented by elected officers
who meet regionally.
What do our missions include?
Youth marine and sailing training, community water activity
support, Make a Wish Foundation, Sea Scout support, Safety at Sea
presentations, Yacht Club officer training and management courses, pollution
identification and detoxification action, bone marrow typing, cancer research,
monitoring and lobbying government marine legislation, support of the National
Boating Federation, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and sponsorship of
the US Junior Sailing.
This is a non-profit, United States tax exempt corporation. The
Foundation is governed by a volunteer
Board of Directors composed of IOBG members and selected professionals chosen
for their expertise in law, medicine, accounting and public relations. The
Foundation supports research seeking a cure for cancer and other life
threatening diseases. The Foundation also supports youth sailing, safe boating
and other educational programs which are in accordance with the organization's
stated purposes as recommended by the IOBO general membership. Requests for
grant funding for local humanitarian causes are submitted to the Foundation by
members through their respective IOBO area, District or Chapter.
Do we have an Auxiliary?
Yes! Our Auxiliary membership encompasses all members spouses
and partners. The Auxiliary has its' own by-laws, officers and insignia. The
support of the Auxiliary members is an integral part of the success of IOBG.
What is a Qualified Yacht Club?
- The club must have been in existence at least five years with
a minimum of five eligible past Commodores and be of sound financial standing.
- The club must have a clubhouse or permanent meeting place and
an established address.
- The club must have at least 75 members.
- No club is qualified if individual Yacht Club membership
requires prior membership in any non related boating activity, fraternal
organization or condominium association.
- Variation from these criteria may be approved by the
Executive Committee as requested by District Officers and Area Vice Presidents.
What is the Insignia?
The International Order of the Blue Gavel flag is registered
with Lloyd's Registry of Flags as our official flag. The same embroidered
emblem is worn on the right sleeve of the yachting blazer. Badges, caps, ties,
decals, shirts and jackets are also available. The flag is flown from the
yardarm or masthead of the ship, designating that on board is a Past Commodore.
This flag properly designates and honors Past Commodores, and is now flown all
over the world and is recognized as the symbol to identify a member of
"Yachting's Most Exclusive Society."
Summary
It is amazing that an idea of one out-going Commodore in 1953
has resulted in an organization of outstanding individuals of distinction and
latitude, and by their actions, receive the respect of the yachting society
throughout the world. This organization continues to grow and serve. There is
no doubt that the word will spread still further, that membership will increase
many-fold and that the prestige and influence of the International Order of the
Blue Gavel will gain increasing stature in the yachting world.
We invite
you to join this select group, the cost is very small and the usefulness and
enjoyment to yourself and others, very large.
