During the winter of 1891, a handful of sailors met at the home of the Division Street Bridge tender for a bit of relaxation. Born at this informal gathering was the inspiration for a downtown yacht club named "Columbia." Early in 1892, a charter was obtained from the state and a site selected at the foot of Randolph Street. Enthusiastic members built a small barge topped by a shed to serve as Columbia's original Clubship. From this club, Columbia began many of the traditions that are still enjoyed today.

In 1927 the Club purchased the 193' Pere Marquette #4,an old wood and iron plated steamboat that was towed to the foot of Randolph Street. To replace the Pere Marquette, the decommissioned lake steamer Florida was purchased in 1936. In 1982, old outgrown and tired after 45 years of service, the Florida was sold. To replace her, the stately 372-foot Canadian icebreaker and ferryboat, Abby was purchased.

On the longest Columbia Yacht Club cruise to date, Members brought this boat from Pictou, Nova Scotia to Chicago, April 5-14, 1983. Originally christened the Abegweit, this ship is the largest privately owned yacht ever brought through the St. Lawrence Seaway. 45 Members, 15 Kings Point mariners and 6 Canadian seamen who had worked aboard when the vessel was owned by the Canadian National Railways sailed her to Chicago.

On June 14, 1997 the Main Bridge was reopened after having been refurbished by the Membership and we also received our name Abegweit back. This area now provides the Members with one of the most unique views of Chicago's skyline and Lakefront.

With the Abegweit established as a lakefront landmark and a comfortable home for our Membership it is likely that the men who gathered at the bridge tender's home over a century ago would be pleased to see the activity, growth and vitality still present in their inspiration for a downtown yacht club called "Columbia".