The Arch Social Club
“Friendship and Brotherly Love”

Founder, Raymond Coates

The Arch Social Club is one of the oldest African American social clubs in the United States. During the early 1900s African Americans’ social activities were restricted and access to insurance was difficult. To counter these racist practices, the Arch Social Club was incorporated in 1912 “for the social, moral and intellectual uplift of its members and in order that charity may be practiced in a Christian-like spirit…” Club members visited the sick, attended funerals and supported widows, orphans and local charities. Benefits were paid to members during sickness or at time of death.

Formerly located in downtown Baltimore, the club moved to the present site in 1972. Prominent African Americans came through the doors regularly. John Kier, formerly of the Duke Ellington Orchestra, led the Club’s band. And, membership was diverse, including waiters, chauffeurs, porters, clerks and laborers. In addition, professionals joined the club, such as attorney William McCard and mortician Thomas Kelson, Druid Hill hotel owner Thomas Smith, and Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters organizer Walter Batson. The club drew widespread participation from Virginia, New Jersey, the District of Columbia, Jamaica and Puerto Rico.

Arch Social Club, ca. 1920

Internationally known musicians such as Charles Earland, Jimmy McGriff, Hank Crawford, Irene Reid, Jeanette “Baby” Washington, The Orioles, The Drifters, The Manhattans, The Spaniels and Joey DeFrancesco all performed at the club.

2426 Pennsylvania Ave., Baltimore, MD 21217