A private social club for the keeping of letters, music, and good company in the spirit of the Harlem Renaissance.
Where the Renaissance Still Gathers
In the parlors of Harlem a century ago, poets read new verse aloud, painters argued over coffee, and the music of the age was first heard in rooms not much larger than this one. The Uptown Harlem Club was founded to keep that tradition in practice rather than in memory.
We are a members' house for writers, musicians, scholars, artists, and neighbors who believe conversation is a civic art. Our evenings are unhurried, our tables are long, and our doors are open to those who come with curiosity and leave with a friend.
Four Rooms, One Address
The Parlor
A front room of armchairs, newspapers, and the house piano. Open from five o'clock.
The Library
First editions from the Renaissance years, reading lamps, and quiet kept by custom.
The Dining Room
One long table, a seasonal Southern menu, and seating by the steward's hand.
The Back Room
Where the music happens. Small ensembles, Thursday through Saturday.
The Season Ahead
Evenings are reserved for members and their guests.
An Evening of New Verse
Members read original poetry in the Parlor, after the salons of the 1920s.
Stride Piano in the Back Room
A trio plays the music of the rent parties. Dress is evening.
The Library Lecture
A historian on the founding of the magazines that carried the movement.
Supper for the Season
The annual members' dinner at the long table. Guests by request.
Portraits & Conversation
An exhibition of work by member painters, with remarks by the artists.
By Introduction
Membership is extended by invitation, upon the recommendation of two existing members and a conversation with the Committee. We seek a membership that reflects Harlem itself: varied in age, calling, and origin, and united by a love of culture and community.
Resident
For those living or working above 110th Street.
Non-Resident
For friends of the house beyond New York.
Young Member
For those under thirty-five.
Thank you. The Secretary will write to you within the month.