In 1886, Fred N. Dow and a group of influential friends organized their informal gatherings into a club - The Portland Club.
The men-club’s purpose was to “discuss current events,” and, though never part of the official by-laws, to promote the Republican party agenda. Because Republicans controlled Maine’s government, the club was widely recognized as the de facto seat of political power for decades.
The club purchased the Shepley-Hunnewell mansion at 156 State Street in 1920, and it has been the home of The Portland Club ever since. Shortly after it was bought, an addition was built to the back of the mansion for the purpose of incorporating an elegant ballroom on the first floor and an extraordinary pool and billiard room on the second floor.
Though the mansion remains very much as it was in the 19th century, the membership has undergone some important changes in the 20th century, including the admission of democrats and women. Today, of course, anyone who is at least 21 years old is welcome to join The Portland Club.
