Did you know that nestled here on 16th Street is The Racquet Club of Philadelphia a place where Philadelphia’s elite come to play and socialize? The Racquet Club of Philadelphia is not just an athletic club. It is a step back in time. It is a vibrant hub of social and sporting life.
Established in 1882 and formally incorporated in 1889 The Racquet Club of Philadelphia has been a historic Philadelphia institution for over 125 years. The Club started in a modest facility at 923 Walnut Street. Later it moved to its current location on 16th Street.
Let’s delve into the story of this prestigious club. Under the leadership of George D. Widener, the current clubhouse was built in 1907. Horace Trumbauer designed it. He chose the Georgian Revival style for its elegance. Nathaniel Burt described it as the best-appointed of all Philadelphia clubs.
This building was innovative for its time. It is one of Philadelphia’s first reinforced concrete structures. It also features the world’s first above-grade swimming pool. The Roebling Construction Company designed the pool. The red-brick exterior reminds us of Philadelphia’s rich history. It earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.
The Racquet Club of Philadelphia is more than just a building. It is a place of sporting innovation. Frederick C. Tompkins invented squash doubles here. A space too large for a standard court became the perfect place for a new game.
Inside The Racquet Club of Philadelphia, you will find a world of athletic pursuits. There are six international squash singles courts. There is also a squash doubles court, a court tennis court, and a racquets court. Members and their guests can also use overnight rooms and a fitness center. A bar and daily lunch service complete the experience. The club is open 365 days a year for its members.
The Racquet Club of Philadelphia has hosted many international tournaments. Court tennis, racquets, and squash doubles have all been showcased here. The club has produced U.S. national champions. Jay Gould, Jock Soutar, Stanley Pearson, and Morris Clothier are among them.
The U.S. Squash Hall of Fame was briefly located here. It has since moved to Yale University. The Racquet Club of Philadelphia remains a vital part of squash history.
The Racquet Club of Philadelphia is looking to grow and has about 800 members. It is one of the most exclusive sports clubs in town. Yearly dues routinely run into the thousands of dollars. The current home was built in 1907 and, at the time, was dubbed “the most modern clubhouse in the country”.
The Racquet Club also has two different restaurants \u2014 one is a lunch-time space and the other is a pub downstairs. The art and architecture is especially amazing on the first floor, in some of the massive rooms that are used to hold events.
Today The Racquet Club of Philadelphia continues its legacy. It serves the social and athletic needs of its members. The Historic Preservation and Education Fund supports the club’s future. It preserves the clubhouse and promotes squash education. Guided tours are available.
As you leave The Racquet Club of Philadelphia, remember its history and elegance. It is a place where sport and society meet. It is a true Philadelphia gem.