The Founding of the Erie Club

The Erie Club was established in 1882 as a private retreat for Erie’s most influential and affluent men. Following the model of gentlemen’s clubs in London and major U.S. cities such as New York, Buffalo, and Pittsburgh, these clubs offered camaraderie, networking, and a refined social environment, much like those frequented by leaders of industry and transportation including Andrew Carnegie, George Westinghouse, Cornelius Vanderbilt, and J.P. Morgan. The Erie Club emerged from the merger of two local organizations: the Undine Boat Club and the McClane Light Guard. Many former members of the Undine were drawn less to boating and more to the social connections the Club could provide, while members from the McClane Light Guard brought a military tradition that shaped the Club’s original member categories: resident, non-resident, and Army & Navy. The founding members were among the city’s wealthiest and most influential citizens, establishing the Erie Club as a center of social, professional, and civic life, a tradition that continues to this day. The Club’s first home was the John H. Walker House on West 7th Street, formerly belonging to the prominent local attorney and politician, John H. Walker, before the Erie Club moved to the Reed Mansion in 1905. Following turbulent periods, including the pandemic, Prohibition, and the Great Depression, the Club emerged stronger than ever. In 1949, the Annual Summer Lobster Picnic was introduced, becoming a beloved tradition, and in 1973, the Erie Club became the first gentlemen’s club in the area to welcome women as members. Today, the Erie Club has undergone multiple renovations to preserve its historic rooms and expand its footprint, including the addition of the former bowling alley, now recognized as the Pub. With over 1,000 members, a growing staff, and new traditions taking shape, we are thrilled to welcome you and have you become part of our ongoing story!