The INTERCITY YACHT CLUB (IYC), established in 1968, (IYC) holds a distinctive position in American maritime history. IYC was founded as one of the nation's few predominantly AFRICAN AMERICAN-run yacht clubs. Located at GORDON PARK (7301 N Marginal Rd), the club's creation directly responded to racial discrimination against Black boaters by white-owned yacht clubs in Cleveland.
The IYC was conceived in the mid-1960s when James "Slim" Parks and other Black boaters had to travel as far away as Sandusky for dockage and refueling. The boaters petitioned the City of Cleveland and received a lease from the State of Ohio to establish their own club on the waterfront at E. 72nd and N. Marginal Rd. Although the docks were in disrepair and the only structure was a dilapidated bait house, the members organized an inclusive yacht club that welcomed all boaters.
Today, the IYC maintains slips for dozens of watercraft and a clubhouse that hosts an annual Commodore's Ball, charity fundraisers, and environmental education events such as a watch party for the 2024 total solar eclipse. IYC leadership has also served as officers at the Greater Cleveland Boating Association.
Jon Wlasiuk