Oriental Club

Oriental Club

The Oriental Club is a prestigious and historic private members' club located in the heart of London. Established in 1824, it was founded by a group of distinguished individuals who had served in the East India Company and the British Raj. The club was designed to be a place where these individuals could meet and discuss their experiences and interests related to the East.

History

The Oriental Club was founded in 1824 by Major General Sir John Malcolm, a distinguished soldier and diplomat who had served in the East India Company. The club's original members were primarily individuals who had served in the East, including military officers, civil servants, and merchants. The club quickly gained a reputation for its high standards of service and its commitment to maintaining the traditions and customs of the East.

Location

The Oriental Club is located in Stratford House, a historic building in the heart of London. Stratford House was originally built in the late 18th century and was acquired by the club in 1962. The building has been carefully restored and maintained to preserve its historic character and charm.

Membership

Membership in the Oriental Club is highly sought after and is subject to a rigorous selection process. Prospective members must be proposed and seconded by existing members and must meet the club's strict criteria for membership. The club's members include a diverse range of individuals, from retired military officers and diplomats to academics and business leaders.

Facilities

The Oriental Club offers a range of facilities for its members, including a dining room, a bar, a library, and a number of private meeting rooms. The club's dining room is renowned for its fine cuisine, which is inspired by the culinary traditions of the East. The club's library contains a vast collection of books and documents related to the history and culture of the East.

Activities

The Oriental Club hosts a variety of events and activities for its members, including lectures, book launches, wine tastings, and social gatherings. These events provide members with the opportunity to socialize, network, and engage in intellectual discourse.

See Also

• List of London's gentlemen's clubs
• East India Company
• British Raj

References

• The Oriental Club and Hanover Square by Bernard Weatherill
• A History of the Oriental Club by Sir Richard Carnac Temple

External Links

• Official Website of the Oriental Club