Friendship and Community Service for over 100 Years
At the turn of the 19th Century the Rogue Valley’s Mediterranean climate and booming economy was discovered by the scions of East Coast and Midwestern families. Once settled, they were befriended by West Coast couples with whom they had much in common. Their desire to establish a club to socialize and to discuss ‘the topics of the day’ led to the creation of the Rogue River Valley University Club. The Club’s By-laws were ratified on Saturday, October 15, 1910 and they received the State’s approval of incorporation on Monday, November 21, 1910.
The Club Founders were among the earliest leaders in Oregon’s Orchard, Timber, Banking and Manufacturing Industries. They were alumni of Yale (12) Harvard (8), Minnesota (6), Stanford (4), Columbia (3), Cornell (3), Michigan (3), Oregon (3) and Williams (3). The average age of the Founders was 30 years.
The Club grew to over 100 members in 1960, 150 in 1973 and over 200 in the 1980’s and early 1990’s. The Club’s Personal Memberships optionally include membership for a Spouse/Partner. Business Memberships provide membership privileges for a variety of the individuals on a Business Member’s staff. The Club’s membership has been active in growing and improving our community since 1910. Today, Club members participate in local decision making, charitable activities and political forums. Members frequently represent Southern Oregon interests in state and national politics and forums.
The Club’s membership preserves our Founders’ vision and builds on their legacy. We are involved with our community through our activities: the Guest Speaker program, which gives Members an opportunity to exchange ideas with political and community leadership, the Annual Scholarship Foundation Awards Luncheon and, on a regular basis, Members enjoy wide ranging conversation at Monday – Friday lunches, served in our Dining Room. The Clubs social calendar includes Quarterly Member Only Events, wine and beer tastings and Dinner Nights featuring seasonal cuisine and local wines. Additionally, the Club facilities and it’s excellent staff are available by reservation for Members personal or business events.
If you’re interested in learning more about the Club contact our Membership Chairman, Marc Bayliss, or a Board member.
To apply for Membership, visit our Club Membership Application page.