Founded in 1905, the Historic Woman’s Club was designed to help encourage the inclusion of women into the political sphere. They fought for causes such as women’s suffrage and family planning, and gave greater influence to women in the local community. Today, the community continues to host charity balls in Santa Monica to help benefit the area, as well as other events such as the enchanting series of Candlelight concerts.
Located on 1210 4th Street, the venue is just a 10-minute walk from Santa Monica State Beach. It’s a 20-minute car ride from downtown LA, or you could get the 4, 20 or 33 bus from the city center to get here.
Did you know that the Historic Woman’s Club…
1. A big donation made it all possible
The site itself was purchased thanks to a hefty donation made by Arcadia Bandini de Baker who was the wife of the city’s co-founder Robert S. Baker. Additionally, Georgina Frances Sullivan was one of the main organizers of the community and was the wife of Senator John P. Jones, another of the city’s co-founders.
2. Hollywood has come knocking
Once the building was eventually fully completed in 1914, the Historic Woman’s Club was hailed as a stunning example of the Classical Revival-style. The main entrance hall is adorned with stained glass and the tiled hip roof and decorated frieze adds to its impressive facade. Nowadays, the building’s main auditorium and dazzling ballrooms are used as popular filming locations for big movie companies.
3. More than just an event space
In the 1950s, the club hit its peak in terms of membership and influence. There were multiple balls held each month as well as concerts, conferences and even card tournaments. Not only did the venue host social events throughout the year, but it has also long been a safe space for women to gather and carry out important meetings.
Candlelight concerts at Historic Woman’s Club
The popular Candlelight series only presents stunning candlelit concerts in the city’s most incredible venues, so it’s no surprise that the Historic Woman’s Club continues to host these unforgettable musical experiences. This season, Candlelight will be paying homage to a range of artists and genres. Iconic pop stars including Dua Lipa and Pink are getting their flowers at these magical tributes as well as soulful legends like Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye and Al Green.
What else can you do at Historic Woman’s Club?
Every year, this venue hosts a wide range of social, cultural and corporate events. The building is supported by glass transoms, twin staircases and original maple floors that add to the overall grandeur of the venue. And thanks to its beautiful interior, this place provides a timeless setting that’s perfect for any occasion, from meetings and conferences to weddings and birthdays. They also put on classes and workshops that allow people to practice yoga, meditation and more.
The Historic Woman’s Club is a historic building that’s been used to provide the setting for a myriad of events for over 100 years, including the mesmerizing Candlelight series. It proudly joins the list of other magnificent venues located across Los Angeles that are hosting these remarkable evenings of music and light, including Immanuel Presbyterian Church and Skirball Cultural Center.