The Capital Rare Book Fair, May 29th-31st

Established in 1904 simply as the University Club, its first president was then Secretary of War and future United States President William Howard Taft. In 1936, it merged with the Racquet Club of Washington, and moved to its current location at 1135 Sixteenth Street NW, approximately three blocks north of the White House.

During these 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 monies at the poker table. It was a social gathering place for Justices Warren and Black during the era of the Warren Court.

The University Club attracts members and guests from both the national and international communities. Members’ professions range through the private, public, and nonprofit sectors, including clergy and foreign nationals. Many members democratically participate in the active committee process and regularly attend the Club social events. With warm fellowship among members, well appointed facilities, and family-friendly ambiance “the mansion on Sixteenth Street” continues as a popular meeting place and retreat for members and guests in our vibrant nation’s capital.