July 09, 1899. "THE SKIPPER OF THE COLUMBIA. Capt. Charles Barr, Who Will Defend the America's Cup Against the Shamrock. This Figurette Will Stand Alone if Cut Out According to Directions. Success in yacht-racing depends largely upon the man in command. The choice of Capt. Charles Barr, to sail the Columbia against the Shamrock not-with-standing his Scottish birth, and Mr. C. Oliver Iselin's preference for native born skippers and crews, is a tribute to the young man's merit. Capt. Barr was born in Gourock, 20 miles from Glasgow, 35 years ago. He began his business career in a grocers' shop, but tired of the vocation and went to sea on a fishing vessel. His first venture in yachting was before the mast on the cutter Ulerin. Fashioned by nature for a keen sea jockey and skilled helmsman he attracted wealthy owners, and when the 20-ton cutter Clara came across to race Yankee yachts "Charlie" Barr was selected for second in command. His first command was the Shona, and in 1886 Admiral Tweed of the Corinthian Yacht Club of New York engaged him to sail the Minerva, by Fife. He record as a successful skipper is a long one, among the winners he has handled being the Niagara, Navahoe, Minerva, Colonia, Wasp, Oweene and Gossoon."
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