University And Whist Club

The Wilmington Whist Club and the University Club of Wilmington began as separate clubs who were friendly; when either one needed anything the other was always willing to help. In the late 1950s, as the population shifted to the suburbs, the lack of food service at the Whist Club made it difficult to attract members. The suburbanites were reluctant to go home for dinner and return to the city for socializing and games. In 1957, representatives of both boards met to discuss a closer liaison. On April 14, 1958 the two organizations formally decided to merge into a single, large, diversified body. It was agreed the University Club at 805 North Broom Street would be the headquarters of the combined membership. In the years that followed the merger, the University and Whist Club of Wilmington flourished. University Club plans for the lower level coincided with the desire on the part of the Whist Club members for a card and billiard room. Through the years the building has undergone renovations and refurbishment to meet the needs of the members.

In 1985, community pressure and a vocal minority of the membership sought the admission of women. A straw vote in 1986 and a formal vote of the membership in 1987 defeated the proposal. Finally, in 1988, with the strong endorsement of the board, the proposal to admit women as voting members was approved overwhelmingly.

Today, the University and Whist Club continues to fulfill its mission; to provide superior food, beverage and service to our members. As Delaware's premier fine dining club, the University and Whist Club offers an exceptional environment for members, their families and their guests to meet, socialize and entertain in a unique setting.