In 1895, the Aftermath Reading Circle began primarily as a literary and
social club organized by a group of New Whatcom women. The name was
suggested to indicate "a second gleaning.” The organization provided
opportunities for socializing and intellectual broadening as well as
actively participating in community affairs. The Aftermath Club raised money
for the new YMCA and offered an annual prize of $25 for the town's "most
improved lawn."
When the reading circle became the formal Aftermath Club the members took the opportunity to build a clubhouse. The structure they built in 1904 is estimated to be the first women’s clubhouse in Washington. For many years this was the only clubhouse owned by members, unlike the men’s clubs that charged higher dues and had no permanent location. Remarkably, the Aftermath clubwomen managed to finance and pay off the debt of their property while continuing their charitable work.
Along with its significance in local history, the Italian Villa style of architecture of this two-story wood frame clubhouse is notable. This type of building, common in the east, is relatively rare in the Pacific Northwest. The Aftermath Club’s literary and cultural ambitions probably influenced their choice of style.
Today, the building is rented to other clubs and individuals for receptions, teas and private parties. The second floor was once considered one of the city’s best available ballrooms, but the structural supports are weak due to the advanced age of the clubhouse and it is no longer used.
