For 33 years, my husband and I have spent the Saturday before Memorial Day honoring Black excellence, a remarkable 79-year legacy of Club Twenty-One. I say Black excellence because it’s a sight to see, many accomplished people look festive and fabulous in one room.
This private, invitation-only event has become a cherished tradition held annually on the Saturday before Memorial Day. Our guests feel privileged and honored to attend this annual black-tie affair. Why? Each member of Club Twenty-One pays for their attendance, which includes a complimentary dinner entree, an open bar, and entertainment with dancing.
Hubby received his invitation to join the professional men’s social organization, The Club Twenty-One, in 1992. This organization has a rich history of professional men in central Pennsylvania since its beginning in 1946. The group continued to offer a social outlet for men of color, where the denial of access to public spaces in the 1940s was current with the times.
In today’s digital-savvy age, invitations are no longer printed or mailed. Nonetheless, digital invites can still create an elegant, unforgettable atmosphere for an evening in Central Pennsylvania.
The Club Twenty-One membership is exclusive and by invitation only, with a maximum of 21 members allowed. Membership changes only when someone dies or decides to leave the organization. As a result, membership opportunities are only open and voted upon now.
Hershey Lodge hosts this exclusive private event, and the staff superbly accommodates the nearly 250 people attending our sit-down dinner.
The attire for the black-tie celebration is formal, and I find it interesting that there are many interpretations of traditional black-tie. Many new members are younger, and their wives often feel comfortable wearing chic short dresses. Perhaps this is black excellence in a newer, younger version. Many guests also wear unique versions of black-tie.
Most people spend Memorial Day weekend getting together with families and friends or attending observances for fallen heroes; our tradition of attending this elegant evening dinner dance, celebrating Black excellence, continues. Next year, the organization will celebrate its 80th anniversary.
As always, thank you for stopping by The Age of Grace.
