Autograph letter signed about rowing technique by Edmund Warre dated 1892

WARRE, Edmund (1837-1920). Autograph letter signed to one of the Nickalls family, Eton College, Windsor, 22 March 1892.
 
Bifolium, 4 pages, written in blue ink on Eton College crested stationery (printed crest and motto at head). Dated in the author’s hand and addressed “My dear Nickalls”. light toning and handling marks; fold lines as expected; some mounting residue to the top corner of the front panel, otherwise clean and fully legible. Very good. 
 
An uncommon letter from Eton Head Master and rower, Edmund Warre where he gives detailed technical remarks on rowing technique and training. Warre discusses the importance of initial velocity at the beginning of the stroke, efficiency of the oar in the water, and the tendency of observers and coaches to focus on the finish of the stroke rather than its initiation. The tone is practical, detailed and analytical.
 
The recipient was almost certainly a member of the Nickalls family, prominent in British rowing. Thomas Nickalls (1828–1899) was one of the founders of the London Rowing Club and an influential figure in Victorian rowing administration, while his son Guy Nickalls (1866–1938) was educated at Eton and later became one of Britain’s most successful oarsmen, winning a gold medal at the 1908 Olympic Games. 
 
Edmund Warre (1837–1920) was Head Master of Eton College and a former Oxford oarsman who contested two boat races and was closely involved in rowing throughout his life. Letters in which he addresses rowing mechanics and training theory directly are uncommon.