Building Relationships, Valuing Tradition

As Connecticut's oldest private social clubs our mission is to extend and expand the unbroken chain of fellowship that reaches back to 1869.  We are the future, active and retired educational, professional, military, corporate, business and community leaders, along with young entrepreneurs who are influencing the future of Southeastern Connecticut. 

Our Mission

To seek out new members who will continue the fellowship, conversations, distinctness, opportunities and experiences that expand our circle of friendships and broaden our knowledge of the community and the world.  If you are beginning your career, presently active in your chosen field, or are retired and wish to be socially active with your newly found time, we would like to meet you.  Making new friends and associates is central to all of our activities.  Networking and hosting guests and business clients in our classic clubhouse can be in either formal or informal spaces as you prefer.

What is a Private Social Club?

Private social clubs emerged centuries ago before the prevalence of hotels, when ye olde taverns were most common for travelers to rest their weary heads on a given night.  The problem with taverns was that they were not exactly hospitable for professionals and merchants.  The networks of social clubs, by contrast, arranged for reciprocity with each other and assured that professionals would be among people “of good standing” when traveling on business.  Naturally, social clubs also provided meals and social experiences for members when they returned home!

In the modern era, private social clubs have become primarily a “home away from home” for their local members, and with reciprocity networks, they provide the comforts and club experience while traveling for business or pleasure.

Members enjoy anytime access to the Clubhouse and its unique amenities and services, including exclusive members-only spaces not found in typical clubs:

1. The Main Bar The social and dining heart of the Clubhouse.  Warm wood accents and fireplaces create an inviting atmosphere for entertaining.  Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails rooted in over 150 years of service tradition.

2. The Library A tranquil escape from the city, perfect for quiet study, remote work, or browsing our collection.  Relax with a cup of coffee or tea, or challenge a friend to a game of chess.

3. The Game Room Featuring a billiard table for friendly competition.

4. Duckpin Bowling Step back in time with our two authentic duckpin bowling lanes—among the last in southeastern Connecticut. Originally designed and built by Electric Boat nearly seventy years ago, these historic lanes are meticulously maintained and expertly serviced by our on-duty mechanic, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Convenient storage is available for your shoes and sportswear.

5. The Hunt Room An exclusive, non-reservable space for members only.  Enjoy poker, card games, chess, dominoes and more.

6. The President's Room A warm and inviting space, featuring comfortable leather chairs and natural sunlight—ideal for relaxation.  On cooler evenings, enjoy the fireplace while sipping a fine cognac.

7. The Dining Room Our elegant dining space, perfect for everyday meals as well as hosting special banquets and holiday celebrations.

Activities Offered and Clubhouse Amenities Include:  

• Full bar for member enjoyment and for entertaining clients, vendors and friends in a beautiful Edwardian era clubhouse.

• Invitations to a wide variety of exclusive social, dining, education, gaming and sporting events throughout the year.

• Access to the club private dining rooms and expert catering for bespoke events designed for you, your business and your philanthropies.

• Dedicated meeting spaces with Wi-Fi to work remotely on your own and in-person with colleagues, clients and vendors.

Members have 24/7 access to this historic space located at 290 State Street in New London, Connecticut.

Members may enjoy the clubhouse as they wish, for leisure or business, in our multiple rooms and event spaces.  Members coordinate their professional use of the spaces with the General Manager and are mutually respectful of other members in the club. 

• Spouses and significant others share the same privileges as the member.

• Lunch is served 12 – 2 pm on Tuesday.

• Special events occur regularly for members and their guests.

• For more information please visit our contact page with any inquiries.

Membership Directory

A comprehensive membership directory facilitates connections with fellow members who share similar interests and professional backgrounds.  Whether over a drink or through other interactions, members are known for their willingness to offer support and assistance.

Reciprocal Clubs for use by Members

The Thames Club maintains reciprocal relationships with nearly 50 prestigious clubs worldwide, including social and athletic clubs, many offering accommodations both in the United States and abroad.  The Club Committee has carefully selected these clubs based on their exceptional standards and services, ensuring they meet the high expectations of our members.  Thames members enjoy the same privileges and access at these reciprocal clubs as they do at the Thames.

Joining the Thames Club

The best way to learn about the club is to visit and meet some of our members.

We will be happy to give you a tour of the club, introduce you to the members who are present and you are welcome to join us for lunch.  Please call us to schedule a convenient time to visit.  Just ring the doorbell at either the front State St. entrance or the rear Washington St. entrance and someone will welcome you.

Please ask questions.  The Thames Club has evolved over the years to become the welcoming and less formal gathering place that we are today.  We have both elegant and casual areas to relax, conduct business and bring guests.  Many lifelong friendships began at the Thames Club and we look forward to meeting you soon.  

Application Process

The Thames Club is a private, member-owned club offering a variety of membership categories tailored to both Connecticut residents and non-residents seeking a welcoming and sophisticated urban retreat.  Prospective members are considered through a selective process involving sponsorship by existing members, interviews with the Membership Committee, and final approval by the Board of Trustees.  If you are interested in becoming a member, we invite you to complete an application.  Your application will be carefully reviewed by our admissions team and subsequently posted for introduction to our membership.  The acceptance process takes approximately two weeks.  While you await a decision, you are warmly encouraged to experience the Club firsthand by attending any of our scheduled events; simply contact us to let us know of your interest.