On the eve of February 22, 1904, the first organizational meeting of the University Club was held at the Willard Hotel. The Washington Evening Star reported: "There will be a membership in the beginning of 545 resident and 58 nonresident members, with 200 awaiting the action of the committee on membership. By-laws were adopted and the charter approved."

The first clubhouse, a rented house on the southwest corner of 16th and K Streets, was dedicated July 4, 1904.

On the evening of March 11, 1904, the first President elected was then Secretary of War, William Howard Taft. Under Taft's guidance Club membership grew quickly.

The Club marked its fifth birthday by announcing on February 25, 1909, that it had taken an option on four lots at the northwest corner of 15th and I Streets and that subscriptions were open for stock in the total amount of $200,000 for the erection of a building. 2,000 shares were sold @ $100 each.

The cornerstone of the new building was laid on April 10, 1912. As a Master Mason, President Taft assisted the officers of the Grand Lodge of the District in the ceremony. After applying the square, level, and plumb line to the cornerstone, the Chief Executive stooped and spread a silver trowel full of mortar on the stone on which the cornerstone was to rest. The trowel remains among the Club's memorabilia.

The Club grew over the ensuing years, but with the stock market crash in 1929, it found itself with its credit badly extended and an unsecured bank loan outstanding. As the Great Depression deepened, it was recommended that the Club sell the property at 900 Fifteenth Street and consolidate with the Racquet Club. The Racquet Club had also been having problems during this time, and, in a marriage of convenience in September of 1936, the two clubs joined forces. The Racquet Club's location at 1135 Sixteenth Street was kept, and the new club was known as the University Club of Washington, D.C.

The Club flourished during the 40's, with the rapid growth of this sleepy southern town into a major world capital. In preparation for its 50th Anniversary, an extensive renovation of the Club took place, including hanging its famous red wallpaper in the lobby and stairway.

During the ensuing years, the Club was a favorite residence for many members of Congress. Tip O'Neill preferred the old card room on the third floor and nothing pleased him more than relieving his House colleague, Richard Nixon, of his money at the poker table.

The 80's brought the admission of women as members and the commencement of a $2.5 million renovation of the athletic center.

The University Club draws members from all over the United States. Members hail from the private sector as well as all three branches of the Government. In addition to a rich tradition, there is ample good fellowship at the "mansion on Sixteenth Street." As one member states: "It is a nice retreat from the every day pace of Washington; it is a great place to get away to read, to relax, to reflect, to work out, and to catch up with good friends."

Visit the University Club online at www.UniversityClubDC.com.