History of the Kelvin Club
History of the Kelvin Club
The Kelvin Club is formed (incorporated on the 13th January, 1865)
as the Fitzroy Bowling Club, under the presidency of Hon. George Harker, MLA. The Club and bowling greens were originally located in the centre of Victoria Parade, opposite the old Presbyterian Ladies’ College and there were cable trams on the north side of the plantation.
Our first President, George Harker (1816-1879) was the member for Collingwood of the first Victorian Legislative Assembly, was responsible for introducing bills for payment of members and (unsuccessfully) the abolition of state aid to religion in 1864-65.
The Fitzroy Bowling Club moves to 53/55 Collins Place. No longer having a bowling green, the name was changed to The Kelvin Club after Lord Kelvin the renowned British mathematician, physicist and Engineer. This reflected the preponderance of engineers & scientists amongst the membership. The President of the Club at this time was JT Wilkins, then chief of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade.
During the Presidency of Sir Leo Curtis (Lord Mayor of Melbourne 1964-65), the Club moved in downstairs at our current premises at 14-30 Melbourne Place.
In 1976 the Stock Exchange Club amalgamated with Kelvin and fifty-nine of their Members were added to Kelvin’s roll, bringing with them many fabulous art pieces.
Minutes dating back to 1968 indicate the Committee’s desire to offer membership to women, however this was hampered by legislation. As a result of changes to liquor licensing laws in 1995 the club was finally able to admit female members. The official date of this policy change was the 14th February, 1995. Perhaps not a coincidence that it was also St Valentines Day.