In Google Play
Step into the past and explore the rich history of our Club through our "History Books." These records capture the milestones, achievements, and defining moments that have shaped who we are today. From our founding to present-day successes, our history books provide a detailed account of the Club's journey, featuring stories of perseverance, growth, and the incredible people who have been part of our story.
19531975
A group of known as the “Pack of Western Wolves” began renting rooms at The Lougheed Block and Mariaggi's Restaurant.
The group formally Establishes themselves as “The Ranchmen’s Club” on May 5th, meeting in rooms leased above Mariaggi’s Restaurant on Stephen Ave. The Population of Calgary was 3876.
The Club purchased 3 lots on McIntyre Avenue (7th Ave. S.W.) for $2,250. The new clubhouse was completed in July. The total cost for the building, furniture and a billiard table was around $8,000.
The new clubhouse, designed by architect R.E. McDonnell, opened. On the east facade is the classic image of a cowboy riding a bucking bronco that would become the club crest.
On the east facade is the classic image of a cowboy riding a bucking bronco that would become the club crest, said to have been designed by A.E. Cross.
On August 5th Canada declared war on Germany.
First Henry Smith golf tournament.
The entire Chinese kitchen staff quit. After lengthy debate, the COM decided to employ women in the kitchen.
Our Club’s Mortgage was paid in full.
In September, The Club held a white tie dinner in honour of Edward, His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales.
Following dinner member, Bob Newboldt, removed his white tuxedo shirt for signing by members and guests including the Prince.
The Ranchmen's Club members in 1925
The First New Year's Day Levee was held. It was the only function where ladies could enter through the front door.
Internationally recognized artist, Edward Hagell, was commissioned to sketch the founders' names and brands. He was paid $20.
The Club's 50th Anniversary.
The Rogues' Gallery was created.
The Picture Club was formed, launching The Club's art collection.
Guy Weadick was a guest of The Club during the Calgary Stampede.
The Ranchmen's Club: A Slight Historical Sketch, 1891-1952, by member George Ballantine Coutts, is the first published history of The Club.
The Club's first television was purchased to be used on a trial basis
A colour TV was purchased and the first Grey Cup Buffet Luncheon was held.
Motion passed by the COM, that it is the unanimous approval of the committee that from this date there will be no barriers in the club regarding race, creed or color of a member's guest.
A Short History of the Ranchmen's Club: A Light-Hearted Account, by John James Saucier, was published to celebrate Calgary's 100th Anniversary.
During a routine inspection the clubhouse was declared unsafe. The cooks claimed to have patched cracks in the kitchen with dough to keep out the cold. Membership decided to demolish and rebuild the interior of the 1914 clubhouse but to keep the exterior walls intact. All Ordinary Members were charged a special assessment of $2,500.
The Estates condominiums were built.
A President's Reception and grand re-opening celebrated the clubhouse reconstruction.
Third floor rooms were named for people associated with the history of The Club; the Lougheed Room was the first.
Her Royal Highness, Princess Anne, Hollywood producers and I.O.C. members enjoyed The Club during Calgary's Winter Olympics.
The Club purchased its first fax machine, bringing the RC into the upcoming “tech-bubble” age!
In celebration of the 100th Anniversary of the Club a Black Tie Dinner was held and Don Begg was commissed to create a commemorative sculpture. Begg used the horse in Edward Hagell's 1937 drawing as a model for the bronze.
The centennial family picnic was held at the Highwood Ranch.
The Centennial Ball was held.
The Palliser Hotel closed its bakery, ending The Club tradition of picking up fresh baked bread, to accompany The Club's famous cheese.
Members voted 147 to 24 to allow women to join The Club as full voting members. Bev Foy became the first female member.
Introduction of casual Fridays in the Wolves Den.
Election of the first female member of the COM.
COM passed a motion to give women access to the entire clubhouse. The 'Gentlemen Only' sign was removed from the billiard room door.
The new wine cellar and dining room opened.
With the legislative non-smoking rules implemented, the enjoyment of cigars within the interior of the club was banned.
The 100th Anniversary of the clubhouse was celebrated and the new historic gardens and exterior lighting were unveiled.
100th Anniversary of the Henry Smith Golf Tournament and the first Dixon-Lang Ladies Gold Proper Tournament.
100th Anniversary of the Henry Smith Golf Tournament.
125th Anniversary celebrations continued at the Stampede's OH Ranch.
125th Anniversary Black Tie Dinner and Gala was held.
125th Anniversary with President Don Herman.
125th Gala with Her Honour, the Honourable Lois Mitchell, Mayor Naheed Nenshi, and President Don Herman.
125th Anniversary Member Photo.
The construction of the Terrace reached it’s completion and was revealed at it’s Grand Opening.
The Terrace officially opened.
The Committee of Management hired The Ranchmen's Club's first female General Manager, Kimberley Iwamoto, CCM, CCE.
In 1990 Don Begg was commissioned to create a commemorative sculpture, Free Reins, for the 100th Anniversary (right). In 2016 Don Begg was again commissioned and he created Free Spirit (left), in celebration of the Club's 125th Anniversary.
The Club celebrated Canada's 150th birthday with a Red and White Ball. During the evening, GM Kim Iwamoto set off fireworks and attracted the attention of the police.
Dena Dixon was elected as The Club's first female President.