The American Club was established over three quarters of a century ago, on July 6, 1925. It grew from small gatherings of Americans who met to socialize and exchange business views. Initially, the Club was located in Rutton House on Duddell Street, and later moved to the old Alexandra House Building on Des Voeux Road. In 1936, the Club established itself in the then new Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank Building in Central with more than 400 Members.
By 1968, total membership had reached 600, and larger quarters were necessary. The Club moved into the St. George's Building in 1969 with 945 Members, of which half were Associate Members ie. Non-American citizens. Since then, the membership has grown to approximately 2,400 of which 60% are Voting Members and 40% are Associate Members.
In 1981, the Board of Governors recognized the long term implications of rising rents; continued growth of the membership; and the difficulty of meeting the ever increasing need to provide recreational facilities for family use. A questionnaire was circulated to the membership and it was found that Members were clearly in favor of residing in a Central location, but emphasized the need to develop outdoor recreational facilities. The Club then undertook a plan to obtain both town and country premises, not only for social and recreational activities, but also as assets for the Club and an investment for Debenture Holders.
