From 1861 to 1870 there were no Regattas held due to political and religious strife within the country of Newfoundland. It was feared that such a gathering would instigate riot and unrest among the many peoples of the country leading to more turmoil and anger.

After the fire of 1892, there was no Regatta held because the shores of Quidi Vidi were used as temporary housing for those who lost their homes.

Advertisement from the 1912 Regatta Souvenir Postcard Booklet.

In 1914 the Regatta was held, but was blackened by the news that war had erupted in Europe, and that Newfoundlanders would be shipping overseas to aid in the war effort with Britain. Out of respect for those fighting in the war, no Regattas were held from 1915 to 1918. There was no event again in 1940, continuing with the theme of "No Regatta during War time". However, American, Canadian and Newfoundland military commanders believed that it would be an excellent distraction from the war and a perfect opportunity to keep their men in shape by continuing with the Regatta, and it was subsequently reinstated in 1941.

A large crowd at the 1985 St. John's Regatta near the CLB concession (Year: 1985, Size: 46kB, Source: Regatta Museum).

The Regatta has been about socializing as much as it has been about amateur sport. It is widely known as "The Largest Garden Party in the World" and draws attention from all over. Concession stands, wheels of fortune, games of chance, food and fun - and sometimes too much "fun" - are just as much part of the history of the Regatta as the races. Indeed, many people hardly notice the races even taking place, as they are too involved in the merrymaking on the shores of the lake. An event of this size will cause people to create many forms of entertainment, such as the "Wheel of Chocolate", the "Greasy Pig" and the "Greasy Pole", and many, many others too numerous to mention.

The stories, songs, tales, poems and anecdotes are also numerous. From the Placentia Giants of 1877 to the crew in 1884 who had three members perish when the Terra Nova capsized; from the crew who held the 9:13 record for 80 years to the story of Bob Sexton, the man who had no training in boat building yet constructed the perfect boat. This is all part of the history of the Royal St.John's Regatta and indeed a part of the history of Newfoundland itself.

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