Senate Resolution No. 1744

BY: Senator GRIFFO

COMMEMORATING the 140th Anniversary of the Fort
Schuyler Club of Utica, New York

WHEREAS, There are certain outstanding organizations in the State
which, through their selfless commitment and dedication, have served to
better the quality of life in their communities and have had a
measurable positive impact on the lives of its residents; the Fort
Schuyler Club is one such organization; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the
140th Anniversary of the Fort Schuyler Club of Utica, New York which was
celebrated October of 2023; and

WHEREAS, Established in 1883, the Fort Schuyler Club has stood as
the area's exclusive private city club, fostering a legacy steeped in
prestige and tradition; offering a unique ambiance for events, meetings,
and leisure activities, the Club has consistently provided its esteemed
members and their guests with the highest levels of service and culinary
excellence; and

WHEREAS, Renowned for its exquisite chef-prepared cuisine rivaling
major city clubs, the Fort Schuyler Club promises a dining experience
that caters to the most discerning palates; members and their guests
enjoy numerous benefits, including regular events, parties, lectures,
personalized service, networking opportunities, professional growth
avenues, and an ideal venue for corporate events, philanthropic
gatherings, and special occasions; and

WHEREAS, The Fort Schuyler Club offers various membership categories
to individuals over the age of 21; categories are based on age and
residence, ensuring a tailored experience for each member; with an
abundance of amenities, multiple meeting and dining rooms, a billiards
and cardroom, and a grand ballroom, the club provides abundant
opportunities for personal and professional endeavors; and

WHEREAS, Over the course of its many years, there have been a host
of prominent guest visitors and members, while some held distinguished
leadership roles; the first President of the Fort Schuyler Club was
Horatio Seymour, former Governor of New York State; following him came
Senator Francis Kernan, and then former Assistant Treasurer of the
United States, Ellis H. Roberts; a guest of note was the renowned Amelia
Earhart who made a stop on a trip from New York City to Buffalo, New
York; and

WHEREAS, With a rich and full history spanning well over a century,
the Fort Schuyler Club has undergone many updates and changes; the
limited capacity of membership has fluctuated, presidents and board
management have changed, women were allowed membership in later years of
the club, along with which came the addition of a cocktail lounge, and
the advents of war, prohibition, and economic fluctuations have also had
varying effects on the club; and

WHEREAS, Despite the inevitable adversities which this institution
has faced over its expanse of years in operation, the Fort Schuyler Club
stands strong as a cornerstone and historical landmark of its community
and beyond, and undoubtedly will serve the residents of the area for
many more years to come; and

WHEREAS, As the Fort Schuyler Club celebrates its remarkable
140-year legacy, the launch of its new website stands as a testament to
its commitment to progress, excellence, tradition, and hospitality; the
website will enable members and non-members to access club information,
explore its history, tour the club and rooms, view upcoming events, and
more; and

WHEREAS, Steeped in a proud and distinguished history, the Fort
Schuyler Club may take just pride in its purposeful growth, as it looks
forward to continuing to serve the business, social, cultural, and
intellectual needs of the community; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the members of the Board of Management and to Club
Manager, Darcy Stevenson.