Cascade Club 1890 |
In Historic Fairhaven - Sycamore Square Building
The Cascade Club was one of the original tenants in 1890 located on the top floor on the west side of the building. The Cascade Club was known as one of the finest Gentlemen’s Clubs. According to an article in the Bellingham Herald, the club was managed by Captain Grahame, who was one of the few survivors of the charge of the Light Brigade, immortalized by Tennyson. The Cascade Club was started by the most prominent gentlemen of Fairhaven society. The furnishing was imported from Chicago at a cost of ten thousand dollars. One hundred men each contributed $100.00 a piece to start the club.
President Taft visited the Cascade Club on several occasions. It is said he was impressed by the luxurious abundance, and enjoyed the company of the club members. On February 14, 1891 with the completing of the rail line, a great gala occasion was held at the Cascade Club. In attendance were Lieutenant Governor Laughton of Washington, Governor Nelson of British Columbia, and H.Y. Thompson, the Mayor of Fairhaven.
Rowland Gamwell was introduced to Mark Twain at
the Lighthouse Theater after hearing him speak. Mr. Twain was inquiring where he could get
a drink despite the fact that public places were closed very early in those days. Mr.
Gamwell offered to take him the Cascade Club. Gathering together a few fellow members of
the club (including the Mayor of Fairhaven), they all made their way to the Mason Block (now
The Cat N Fiddle Salon suite 414). Mr. Gamwell remembered drinking and talking to Mr.
Twain well into the night.
