Originally designed in 1899, the Town and Gown Club on Dwight Way is one of two historical landmark houses on the block commissioned by French immigrant couple Felicien and Emmanuel Marie Paget. The large home and estate once housed meetings of the Town and Gown Club, founded by Mlle. Paget, which lobbied for such causes as the planting of shade trees on Berkeley streets and the preservation of a sequioa grove.
The home's redwood shingled facade has been expanded upon in the last century, and it stands as a Berkeley landmark amidst newer houses and businesses in the neighborhood. Residents interested in touring the house can visit the Berkeley Architectural Heritage Association's website for more information.
This is the main office for the San Francisco Bay Area chapter of the Sierra Club. It is a grassroots organization dedicated to protecting the environment and promoting clean and sustainable energy.
The group takes part in campaigns to pass environmental ballot measures, and educates the public about the importance of preserving the earth. The chapter also regularly goes on hikes throughout the region as well as outdoor activities like camping and backcountry skiing.
This building hosts many Finnish cultural and historical events. The owners rent the space at reasonable rates to local event planners. Its well-lit, roomy studios are large enough to accommodate groups, and are also appropriate for dancing or martial arts rehearsals. The building is located just north of University Avenue in Central Berkeley.
Located in a quaint house that is removed from the street, the Berkeley Piano Club has been in operation since its founding in 1893. Rich with both musical and non-musical history, the property the club is situated on was recently designated a Berkeley landmark. The internationally known club includes a private performance space and also operates as a place of study. It is available for rental and recitals.
Flanked by a pair of windswept pine trees, the Berkeley Yacht Club is located at the breakwater of the Berkeley Marina. Founded in 1939, the clubhouse was built by members and includes a bar, lounge and dining facilities as well as a fantastic three bridge view of the Bay. Although there is a guest dock, the club does not maintain its own marina. The Berkeley Marina is a municipal facility maintained by the City of Berkeley.
The Berkeley Yacht Club has about 250 members and runs a racing program, monthly club cruises, parties and dinner meetings, as well as organizing lectures and race clinics. There are also a range of social events throughout the year including The Commodore's Ball, Halloween Party, and Amateur Performance Nights.
