Gentlemen only club sees its last day
End of an era as popular town club shuts down
It was strictly men only but women were allowed in once a year as long as they wore a hat.
After nearly 150 years the Ayr Club for businessmen has shut.
The institution, which remained largely “incognito” boasted 250 members at one stage. Originally based in Academy Street, Ayr, the gentlemen’s club moved to South Harbour street in latter years.
Men rushed to the club at 5pm every day of the week for a chat and drink.
And entertainment included dominoes and snooker.
Former secretary Hugh Flanagan, 81, of Ayr, said: “It was excellent, It was male only. Once a year we allowed ladies in for a meal. All women had to wear a hat and the men had to have ties on.”
The grandfather who was in the Merchant Navy before running a pub in Mauchline described the club as “incognito.”
The club closed for good more than two weeks ago.
An auction was held to get rid of some of the interesting artefacts at the premises in South Harbour Street.
A billiards table and Victorian snooker table were up for grabs.
Businessman Donnie Macintyre ( pictured in caricature right) bought three boards listing all the names of the club’s past presidents.
He was president in 1983. He kindly gave the board to the Kyle and Carrick Civic Society for safe keeping.
Society president Michael Hitchon ( MBE) was asked to help find the club’s objects a new home before the closure and he shared these pictures with the Post.
He said: “The history of the organisation is quite interesting. There were silver trophies and a beautiful billiards table but nobody wanted it so it was destroyed. We were delighted to accept the president’s boards.” The Ayr club was founded in 1870. Its harbour- based home has been taken over by an Orange Lodge.
Only 21 members remained before the club closed. Twenty five were needed for it to continue. MP Bill Grant said it was a “sad demise” and an important part of business community history in Ayr.
He said: “It has ran its course and sadly the decision has been taken to close its doors. I remember it was a popular venue in Academy Street in Ayr. Business people could speak quietly before the days of modern technology and fake news.”
Above we have printed some cartoons of the prominent members from the past, which hung in the club. If you recognise anyone please get in touch on 01292 262200.