At the time of the July 4 regatta in 1874, "Captain" H. M. Federhen of the yacht LENA extended an invitation to participating yachtsmen to meet at his home July 10. While the purposes of this meeting were not stated, it is evident that he was preparing the way for the organization of local yachtsmen. As a result of this gathering, another meeting was held Thursday, July 23, 1874 in his boat house at Quincy Point. There the Quincy Yacht Club was organized.

A committee was appointed on rules and regulations, consisting of James T. Slade, George Tyler Bigelow, Jr., and H. M. Federhen. A committee was also appointed to notify boat owners to meet "at Mr. Jas. H. Slade's residence,Thursday evening next at 8 o'clock".

All yachtsmen were invited to attend. At this meeting July 30 the Club started with 69 members and 37 yachts.

The following officers were chosen:
Commodore James H. Slade
Vice-Commodore H. A. Keith
Secretary and Treasurer H. M. Federhen
Regatta Committee -H. M. Federhen, John Shaw, Jr., Marcus W. White, Charles F. Pierce
and Freeman Whitmarsh.