The Fort Henry Club - located at 1324 Chapline Street is currently on the endangered species list of buildings that could be demolished in downtown Wheeling. In November of 2011 contents of the Fort Henry Club were auctioned off, and now the building awaits potential tenants. If no buyers surface, the building faces demolition, and this prime corner lot could become a parking lot.
The club was originally founded in 1890 and their first club house was actually the old Howell Mansion at 1324 Chapline Street. The Howell Mansion was purchased for $19,500. The club was open from 7 a.m. to 12:00 at night. On Sundays the club opened at 8 a.m. Women were allowed to have use of the club from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. During those hours they were allowed to use the main reception room, dining room, library, and the ladies toilet room. Women, though, were never allowed to enter the 2nd floor - unless it was for a "special occasion." The third floor contained "handsomely furnished rooms" for visitors or any member who wished to spend the night. Some of the items on the menu for the clubs grand opening included: Imperial Sherry, Duck with Olives, Turkey, Dried Oysters Maryland Style, and Chicken Salad.
In 1920's fire destroyed the Howell Mansion and the current building was constructed and functioned as a club up until September of 2011. When the present building was constructed the layout and functions of the club remained the same, but its rules towards women and where they could go in the club became more relaxed. Famous guest of the club have included Jimmy Stewart, President Herbert Hoover, Charles Lindbergh, Babe Ruth, and Walter Pidgeon (actor).
