1918 1
The Defenders' Recreation Club was a WWI-era clubhouse for military personnel at 13th and Harrison. In August 1918, a dance hall was constructed adjacent to the clubhouse. It was part of the work of the local War Camp Community Service.
The building was originally constructed in 1896 by W.T. Reed as Reed Hall. It was rented to various organizations include the Ebell Society and the Reliance Athletic Club. From 1911-1915, it was home of the Oakland Chamber of Commerce. With the outbreak of WWI, it became Defenders' Recreation Hall. 6
The dance hall was constructed in 16 hours with labor donated by local building unions. 2
Mayor Davie addressing troops 3
view from Hotel Oakland 5
An armistice was signed in November 1918, but the club continued to serve returning veterans for a time.
In 1919 it was purchased by Nobles of the Mystic Shrine (a Freemason order, better known today as Shriners) and became known as Aahmes Temple. The building was demolished in 1960 and replaced with a gas station. 6
1903 Sanborn excerpt
1911 Sanborn excerpt
1950 Sanborn excerpt
Links and References
- ohrphoto.oaklandclubs.036 Oakland History Center, Oakland Public Library
- Union Labor Makes Gift to Fighters; Workers Build Club in 16 Hours Oakland Tribune August 19, 1918
- BANC PIC 1996.003:Volume 27:123b--fALB Bancroft Library, UC Berkeley
- Defenders Club Is Like Home Oakland Tribune June 16, 1918
- 2001.1.1065 by M.L. Cohen, Oakland Museum of California
- Oakland History Notes: The Defenders' Recreation Club Oakland Heritage Alliance News Spring 2000
