About The Oldest Social Club In America
The Old South River Club is a private club and membership is by invitation only
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 club is reputedly the first to have been established by English settlers in the colonies and survived to the mid-twentieth century. 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.
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.