Identity area
Type of entity
Authorized form of name
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Standardized form(s) of name according to other rules
Other form(s) of name
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Description area
Dates of existence
History
Boodle's is a gentlemen's club founded in 1762 by Lord Shelburne (who later became Prime Minister) and other individuals who were opposed to many of the key government policies of the day. They met regularly at a tavern at 49-51 Pall Mall to discuss political issues and exchange ideas. The tavern was owned by the coffee house proprietor William Almack and the principal waiter was Edward Boodle. It is believed at some point Boodle took over the tavern and this is why the club became known as Boodle's.
In 1783, the club moved to 28 Saint James's Street, which was designed by John Crunden in 1775 and originally used by the Savoir Vivre Club. The ground floor was renovated by John Buonarotti Papworth between 1821 and 1834. It has a very fine interior including a beautiful eighteenth century saloon.
Until 1897, Boodle's was a proprietary club meaning it was run for the profit of the owner under the direction of a board of managers. Since 1897, Boodle's has been owned and run by the members.
In the early days, Boodle's was not only a political club but also a place for wining and dining, gaming and betting. In the nineteenth century, the club became less political. The club is now a place where members can meet, dine and engage in social activities.
Members have included David Hume; Adam Smith; Edward Gibbon; William Cavendish, 5th Duke of Devonshire; Charles Fox; Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington; William Wilberforce; Beau Brummell; Ian Fleming; David Niven; John Profumo and Julian Fellowes. Winston Churchill was an honorary member.