at London Bridge and "The Swan" pub at Chelsea. Rowing wagers were common in those days, but this one was unique: Doggett set the wager to be a traditional red watermens' coat, but, being a "great Whig in Politics", Doggett arranged the race for 1 August each year, and had the coat furnished with a silver badge "representing Liberty", to commemorate the accession to the throne on 1 August 1714 of George I of the House of Hanover. The current badge prominently features both the word "Liberty" and an image of the horse, an emblem of the House of Hanover. The race was organised and financed by Doggett each year from 1715 until his death in 1721. In his will, Doggett left specific instructions for the continuation of the race, which is now held by the Fishmongers' Company, a livery company of the City of London. However, over the ages, several particulars have changed: Originally, the race was run against the tide, but since 1873 it has been run with the incoming tide. It was intended to be held each "1st day of August forever", but now often occurs in September, with the precise date and time depending on the tides. The intention was that competitors should race in the boats of their passenger-ferrying trade. At first these boats were four-seater passenger wherries (which could take nearly two hours to row the distance), later "old fashion boats", then "best" boats, then clinker gigs, then modified best boats. Since 1769 the Fishmongers' Company has set regulations; these state that all vessels must be "common Scullers Boats" and examined by the Company. Contemporary single sculls are now used and take about 30 minutes to race the course. Lots were originally drawn at Watermen's Hall but are now drawn at Fishmongers' Hall due to unfair practices. As the population of watermen has declined, since 1988 the event has been open to unsuccessful competitors to row again in their second and third years of freedom. Timeline 1 August 1714 – Accession to the throne of George I of the House of Hanover 1715 – There is a myth that Doggett fell into the Thames, and was saved by watermen 1 August 1715 – the first Doggett's Coat and Badge race 1721 – Doggett dies; his will leaves specific instructions for race to continue 1722 – Race renamed from "The Brunswick Competition" to "Doggett's Coat