The Downtown Club

From a beacon for athletes to a haven for city dwellers, The Downtown Club at 20 West Street has witnessed a fascinating transformation. The Downtown Club, originally the Downtown Athletic Club, opened its doors in 1930. This Art Deco masterpiece, designed by Starrett & van Vleck, wasn’t just another skyscraper. It was a vertical clubhouse, a unique concept for the time. The Downtown Club’s tiered design reflected the diverse athletic facilities within. Imagine a swimming pool perched high above the city, squash courts tucked away amidst the steel and brick, and even a miniature golf course nestled within this towering giant. The club’s founders, a group of lawyers, envisioned a sanctuary for the businessmen and legal eagles of Lower Manhattan. A place where they could unwind and recharge after a long day’s work. The Downtown Athletic Club quickly became a hub of activity. It hosted sporting events, social gatherings, and even housed its own touchdown club, established by the club’s first athletic director, John Heisman. This touchdown club would later play a pivotal role in the creation of one of college football’s most prestigious awards. In 1935, the club began awarding a trophy to the most outstanding college football player. Upon Heisman’s death in 1936, this trophy was renamed in his honor, becoming the iconic Heisman Trophy. The Downtown Athletic Club, however, faced its share of challenges. The Wall Street Crash of 1929 hit the club hard. Many members, impacted by the financial downturn, could no longer afford the membership fees. The club declared bankruptcy in 1936, only to regain ownership of the building in 1950. The Downtown Club continued to evolve, adapting to the changing times. In 1977, it opened its doors to female members for the first time. It underwent renovations and witnessed further changes to its interior spaces. However, the September 11 attacks dealt a devastating blow. Although the building remained undamaged, its proximity to the World Trade Center led to its inclusion in the exclusion zone. The extended closure and subsequent financial difficulties forced the Downtown Athletic Club to close its doors permanently in 2002. But the story of 20 West Street didn’t end there. The building underwent a significant transformation, reopening in 2005 as The Downtown Club, a residential condominium. Today, The Downtown Club stands as a testament to resilience and reinvention. It has evolved from an exclusive athletic club to a vibrant residential community. While the sounds of squash balls and cheering crowds have faded, the building’s Art Deco spirit lives on. It serves as a reminder of The Downtown Club’s rich history and its enduring presence in the heart of New York City.