A Proud Legacy: The Harvard Club of NYC’s Storied History
The Harvard Club of New York City was founded in 1865 by a small group of alumni interested in continuing the fellowship of Cambridge. Within a year, the club grew to 98 members, gathering at Delmonico’s and other rented venues. By the early 1890s, with membership expanding to 600, the need for a permanent home became clear.
Today, the Harvard Club of NYC stands as an architectural gem with a rich history. It was among the first buildings to be designated a New York City Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Members and alumni take great pride in this iconic building.
Historical Timeline
Please scroll through the timeline to explore key events.
1865
The Harvard Club of New York City was founded in 1865
The Harvard Club of New York City was founded in 1865 by a small group of alumni interested in continuing the fellowship of Cambridge. The first meeting was held at the Mercantile Library Building on Astor Place, and four members attended.
1878
Constitution Adopted
Harvard Club of New York’s constitution was adopted. Attached is a figure from the Proceedings of the Harvard Club of New York City at their 12th annual dinner, held at Delmonico’s February 21st, 1878.
1878
The Start of a Clubhouse. Incorporated in the State of New York.
And so, in early 1887, the Club signed a lease on a four-story brownstone residence at 11 West 22 Street and converted it into a clubhouse with 10 bedrooms, a restaurant, and other clubrooms where members could read periodicals, smoke, and chat.
1892
West 44th Street Clubhouse
By the early 1890s, with 600 members, a permanent home was needed. Two lots were purchased on West 44th Street, then a block of stables. The Club chose celebrated architect Charles F. McKim, of the renowned firm McKim, Mead & White, for the project.
1899
HCNY funds University Boathouse on the Charles
Austen G. Fox had been pursuing a goal of putting up a boathouse on the bank of Charles River. He raised $27,500 from clubmates to send to the university treasurer.
1905
First addition to Clubhouse
First addition to Clubhouse (Harvard Hall and above) opens December 7 McKim, Mead & White
1915
Second addition to Clubhouse
Second addition opens (Main Dining Room and above) June 14 McKim, Mead & White
1928
World War I Memorial
World War I Memorial dedicated in Harvard Hall December 7
1930
Plot purchased for further growth
33 & 35 West 44th Street purchased for further growth.
1941
Ladies Annex opens
Ladies Annex opens to spouses of members and Radcliffe alumnae.
1947
World War II Memorial
World War II Memorial added to Harvard Hall December 7
1953
HCNY Foundation incorporated
The HCNY Foundation was organized to foster scientific, literary, and educational interests among members of the Harvard Club of New York City, to provide scholarships for students at Harvard University and to advance the interests and promote the welfare of Harvard University.
1959
A New York landmark
in 1959 the Clubhouse was designated as a landmark of New York
1965
Centennial celebration
The club kicked off a year long centennial celebration.
1973
First women elected to membership
The first woman elected to the Club was Heidi Nitze Dv’62, a daughter of Paul H. Nitze ’28, a long time policy advisor to American presidents.
1979
Mortgage burning
January 18, 1979 on election night dinner, the Club’s fully paid-up mortgage was held at arm’s length. Then lighting a match the flaming document was dropped in a silver bowl.
1986
Harvard’s 350th
2003
Third addition to Clubhouse
The 3rd addition to the Clubhouse 35 W 44th Street by Davis Brody Bond
2008
First woman Club President
First woman Club President Nicole Parent C’1993
2011
Harvard's 375th
2014
Rooftop Bar Opens
The Rooftop, designed by Rogers Marvel Architects, the Club’s newest dining venue blends modern and traditional elements seamlessly.
2015
150th Anniversary
The club celebrates its 150th Anniversary
2023
Rooftop Terrace Renovation
The Rooftop Terrace is beautifully renovated with new furnishings, umbrellas, an awning, and lush greenery, creating an inviting space for members to enjoy.
