South River Club facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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South River Club
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South River Club, July 2009
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 Location in Maryland
Location in the United States
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| Nearest city | South River, Maryland |
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| Area | 0 acres (0 ha) |
| Built | 1742 |
| NRHP reference No. | 69000067 |
| Added to NRHP | May 15, 1969 |
The South River Club is a very old and special social club located near Annapolis, Maryland. It's in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. The name "South River Club" also refers to the building where the club meets. This building was built way back in 1742.
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What is the South River Club?
The South River Club is also known as "The Old South River Club." It is one of the oldest groups of its kind in the United States that has been active without stopping.
How Old is the Club?
Many of the club's first records were lost. This happened when the first clubhouse burned down a long time ago. But there is proof that the club was around in 1732. Some people even think it might have started as early as 1700.
Club records show it was active before February 11, 1742. On that date, the members decided to try and write down the names of all past members. By 1746, the club was already called "The Ancient South River Club" in the Maryland Gazette newspaper.
Who Were the Early Members?
The first members of the club were important people from the area. They included wealthy landowners and business owners. The local doctor and the clergyman (a religious leader) were also members. All of these members lived within about 10 miles of the clubhouse.
What Happens at Club Meetings?
The club members meet at the clubhouse four times each year. They have big meals that are cooked in a separate kitchen building.
There are special days called "Pilgrimage Days." On these days, women are allowed to visit the clubhouse. Otherwise, the clubhouse is usually just for the male members.
The Clubhouse Building
It is not clear exactly where the very first clubhouse stood. Some people think it might have been in a place called Londontowne, Maryland.
The Current Clubhouse
The building that stands today was built in 1742. The land for it was bought from Captain Thomas Gassaway. He was the son of Colonel Nicholas Gassaway.
The clubhouse is a small building made of wood. It has one main room and a sloped roof. There is a narrow chimney on one side of the building. In 1969, this historic clubhouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This list helps protect important places in the United States.
Images for kids
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South River Club, July 2009
