[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 51 (Tuesday, April 30, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E667]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


 HONORING THE GRADUATE CLUB AS THEY CELEBRATE THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF 
                      THEIR HOME AT 155 ELM STREET

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 30, 2002

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to 
extend my sincere congratulations to New Haven, Connecticut's Graduate 
Club as they celebrate their 100th anniversary at 155 Elm Street. 
Throughout its history, the Graduate Club has been a social institution 
in our community--bringing town and gown together for nearly 200 years.
  Established in 1892, the Graduate Club was founded to provide a place 
where faculty and graduates could socialize and work. While there were 
many clubs, organizations, and public resorts, they were generally 
dominated by undergraduates. Their first president, Arthur W. Colton, 
Yale 1890, with a number of other men, held the first meeting in 
November of 1892 and adopted the name Graduate Club, only because the 
more common University Club was already being used by undergraduates.
  The Graduate Club found its first home at the Anktell House where it 
remained until the Spring of 1894 when it was forced to seek other 
quarters due to the expansion of Yale University. It was in their 
second home on Chapel Street that members signed the Articles of 
Association. Blending academic and civic interests, membership grew and 
steadily strengthened the young organization. With the turn of the 
century membership continued to increase and a mounting waiting list 
continued to expand. It was evident that the Club had to seek a larger 
venue.
  Closely following the bicentennial celebration of Yale University, 
the Graduate Club acquired the historic home of Eli W. Blake at 155 Elm 
Street. Though there was a need for alteration and enlargement of the 
property, a date was set for the formal laying of the cornerstone: 
April 26, 1902. The celebration of a centennial anniversary is always a 
special occasion. It is especially so for the Graduate Club because 
they are recognizing the anniversary of the establishment of their 
home. Being able to remain in the same building, particularly during 
the many phases of revitalization, is a great accomplishment.
  What began as a means to distinguish a collegiate generation gap has 
grown into a popular and respected gathering place. You can often find 
New Haveners dining in the Club and it is sought out for meetings or 
social gatherings. It has become a true New Haven landmark. I am 
honored to rise today to join the New Haven community in congratulating 
the past and present membership on this wonderful occasion.

                          ____________________