How does it feel to be 125 years old? Judging by the anniversary celebration gala at the Columbia Club on Monument Circle in downtown Indianapolis, pretty darn good.
The historic Indiana club initially began as a marching society to promote the presidential candidacy of Gen. Benjamin Harrison. Harrison succeeded in the bid and was elected as the 23rd U.S. president in 1888, the only president ever to be elected from Indiana.
The private club has remained in continuous existence ever since. The current structure was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983.
Although the club is private, The Cabaret, a nationally known popular entertainment venue in the Club, is open to the public. Celebrity Shannon Forsell is the managing and producing director, and along with Roy Geesa and the Cool City Band, frequently performs. The Cabaret also features international, national and local cabaret performers in the intimate, sophisticated setting.
The lavish 125th anniversary gala March 22 occupied three floors over the course of the night. The evening began with entertainment by The Brass Bottom Dixieland Band on the first floor. Guests sampled seafood from a sumptuous display, complete with ice sculpture.
Ed Myers, as President Benjamin Harrison, delivered a speech, and Henry Ryder, as James Whitcomb Riley delivered one of his famous poems.
The party proceeded to the third floor where the buffet style main course was available as Shannon Forsell and the Cool City Band performed. On the 10th floor, luscious and decadent desserts awaited guests. The band Zanna-doo! performed as guests enjoyed pastries and danced to the high energy band.
All food was prepared under the direction of celebrated executive chef, Rolf Meisterhans.
James Rentschler, from Carmel, currently serves as General Manager and COO. Among other Carmel residents in attendance were: Membership Director Audrey Hughey; Joni and Nick Hrisomalos; Michael Lady; Robert DeVoss; Jay Brill; and Michael and Janine Daggett.
Other notable guests, to name a few, were: Club president Terry Young with Lori Priller; Chuck and Carrie Pennington; Glenn and Brenda Miller; and Marilyn Goeke.
For information about the Columbia Club visit [email protected].
Tonya Burton is the Current’s social scene columnist. You may contact her at tonya@currentincarmel. com
