About The Oldest Social Club In America
Recognized as both America's oldest social club and oldest clubhouse
A social club is defined as a membership-based organization that provides a venue or platform for individuals with similar interests to come together and engage in recreational, social, cultural, or leisure activities.
The Old South River Club is a historic clubhouse located in Harwood, Anne Arundel County, Maryland. It is considered both the oldest social club in America (founded 1700) and the oldest clubhouse in America (built in 1742).
The Old South River Club is described as the oldest social club in America by the Maryland State Highway Administration. It is defined as the oldest continuously used social club in the Americas and oldest social club in America by the U.S. National Park Service.
The historic social club with deep roots in Maryland's history, is known for its longevity and traditional practices. It's located just south of Annapolis and is celebrated for its early establishment, possibly dating back to the 17th century.
Historical anecdotes highlight the club's resilience, such as a member holding a meeting alone during the Civil War in 1864 and, in 1804, 10 members trekking 7 miles through a blizzard to attend a dinner, while one resigned for missing it due to the weather. These stories underscore the club's commitment to tradition, even in challenging times.
The club is reputedly the first to have been established by English settlers in the colonies and survived to the mid-twentieth century, including prominent landowners, merchants, the local doctor, and clergyman, all residing within a 10-mile radius of the clubhouse.
John Gassaway in the original deed stated he was deeding the land to The South River Club because his father, Colonel Nicholas Gassaway, sold it for club use for ”eight pounds".
John C, Nicholas and Thomas Gassaway were among the charter members when the club was founded in 1690. The clubhouse is a one-room structure made of wood and is located on a half-acre of land. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on May 15, 1969.
The historic social club was nominated to the register for its architectural significance as one of the oldest continuously operating social clubs in the United States, and for its historical significance as a gathering place for political discussions during the American Revolution.
The Old South River Club was founded by a group of planters and merchants who lived in the South River area of Anne Arundel County. It was originally called the South River Club, but it was renamed the Old South River Club in 1900.
The club's first clubhouse was built in 1700, but it was destroyed by fire in 1740. The current clubhouse was built in 1742. The club has a long history of hosting social events, including feasts, dances, and plays. It was also a popular gathering place for political discussions during the American Revolution.
In 1776, the club hosted a meeting of delegates from Anne Arundel County who were drafting a resolution to support the Declaration of Independence. The Old South River Club is a private club and membership is by invitation only to male descendants of members.
The club meets four times per year for feasts prepared in the detached kitchen. Women are only allowed in the clubhouse on "Pilgrimage Days," which are held in the spring and fall. Membership is limited to 25 men born in Southern Maryland.
The meetings are characterized by a strict avoidance of religion and politics, focusing instead on storytelling, ribbing, and song. Members wear traditional attire, including seersucker blazers, boating shoes, and neckties with the club's logo—crossed British and American flags.
Toasts are made to the queen, the president, and the host’s wife, reflecting a blend of colonial and modern influences. The clubhouse, lacking electricity, indoor plumbing, or running water, preserves its historic ambiance, with features like horsehair plaster ceilings, worn pine floors, a long walnut table, and faded portraits.
The Old South River Clubhouse is located on a scenic spot on the South River. It is a popular tourist destination for picnics and fishing and is also a popular spot for weddings and other special events.
The social club is a unique and historic institution that has played an important role in the social and political life of Anne Arundel County for over 300 years. It is a testament to the enduring value of community and tradition.
Overall, The Old South River Club could be envisioned as a multifaceted institution that serves not only as a social hub but also as a cultural, recreational, and philanthropic center deeply rooted in Southern traditions and values.