Fast Company -- After leaving the boathouse, the freshman crew has an awkward moment as oars are put into position. The slender racing shells and capable oarsmen are a far cry from the early days of Wellesley College crews. In the 1880's the boats were built for safety and looked like barges. The principal use of the craft was as a musical platform. According to custom, members of the crew took distinguished visitors for a ride on Lake Waban and then serenaded them in the middle of the lake. You can readily understand why they were selected for voices rather than rowing ability. Today it's a different story. The crew gals have a serious attitude toward racing and it show when they're at the oars. February 25, 1955. (Photo by United Press).