History

The Twentieth Century Club of Lansdowne was organized in 1897 by a small group of women whose objective was to create an organized center of thought and action among women, for the protection of their interests and for the promotion of science, literature and art.  Their motto was “Give to the world the best you have and the best will come back to you.” The charter that established the Club nearly a century ago hangs in the Club lobby today.

In November 1911 the arts and crafts style assembly building at 84 South Lansdowne Avenue was formally opened by the membership.  Designed by the prominent Philadelphia architectural firm of Heacock and Hokanson and constructed by George Grover of Morton, Pennsylvania the building was financed by the members of the club and maintained through dues and rentals.

After the Borough acquired the building in 1979, the Club became Lansdowne’s community center. It now hosts events year-round, including a concert series by the Lansdowne Folk Club and the annual Lansdowne Arts Festival in September. It can also be rented for wedding receptions, birthday and anniversary parties and other private events. The Twentieth Century Club is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.