Reform Club

Private members' club in London, England

Reform Club exterior

The Reform Club is a private members' club on the south side of Pall Mall in central London. Founded in 1836, it was originally established for members of the Liberal Party and those who supported the Reform Act 1832. The club has since evolved into a non-political institution, welcoming members from diverse backgrounds and professions.

History

The Reform Club was founded in the wake of the Reform Act 1832, a pivotal piece of legislation that expanded the electorate and reformed the British parliamentary system. The club was intended as a meeting place for those who supported the reform movement and the principles of liberalism.

The club's original premises were located at 104 Pall Mall, but it quickly outgrew this location. In 1841, the club moved to its current building at 104-105 Pall Mall, designed by the architect Charles Barry, who also designed the Houses of Parliament. The building is noted for its Italian Renaissance style and its grand interiors.

Architecture

Upper level of the saloon

The Reform Club's building is an architectural masterpiece, featuring a grand central saloon, a library, and numerous dining rooms. The design was inspired by the Palazzo Farnese in Rome, and it showcases Barry's skill in creating a sense of grandeur and elegance.

The central saloon is particularly notable for its impressive staircase and the use of natural light, which floods the space through a large glass dome. The interiors are richly decorated with marble, wood paneling, and intricate plasterwork.

Membership

Originally, membership was restricted to those who supported the Liberal Party and the reform movement. However, over time, the club has opened its doors to a wider range of individuals. Today, the Reform Club is known for its diverse membership, which includes people from various professions, backgrounds, and political affiliations.

The club maintains a rigorous selection process, and prospective members must be nominated by existing members. The club is known for its emphasis on intellectual engagement and social interaction among its members.

Cultural Significance

Reform Club lobby

The Reform Club has played a significant role in British cultural and political life. It has been the setting for numerous important meetings and events, and it has been featured in various works of literature and film.

One of the most famous literary references to the Reform Club is in Jules Verne's novel "Around the World in Eighty Days", where the protagonist, Phileas Fogg, is a member of the club. The club's reputation for exclusivity and its association with the intellectual elite have made it a symbol of British society.

Related pages

• Liberal Party (UK)
• Reform Act 1832
• Charles Barry
• Pall Mall, London