KBYC Mounted Full Size Cannon

The T.O. Sykes Cannon: A Legend Restored

KBYC Cannon

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While many members are familiar with the small signal cannons used for ceremonial starts, there is a much larger piece of history resting quietly on the club grounds. This "big cannon," which sits permanently on a cement base, was a gift to the Key Biscayne Yacht Club from T.O. Sykes, one of the club’s original members.

A Piece of Real Firepower

Unlike modern replicas, this was a functional, "real" cannon. It arrived at the club in the very early days, likely around 1960. T.O. Sykes was a dedicated member who had been with the club almost since its 1955 inception, and his donation provided the club with a sense of maritime authority and history.

The Restoration by Commodore Dates

For years, the cannon stood as a silent witness to the club’s growth, eventually needing professional care to preserve its life. While it was originally a firing piece, it no longer fires today. Former Commodore Hugh (Huey) Dates took on the project of ensuring its legacy continued, performing a meticulous restoration. He cleaned the historic piece and mounted it securely on its current cement base. To ensure the history of the gift was never forgotten, Commodore Dates also placed a brass plaque on the mounting, honoring the legacy started by T.O. Sykes.

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