Celebrating a Legacy of Community and Culture
Welcome to the Redlands Contemporary Club
For over 130 years, we've been a cornerstone of cultural and civic engagement in Redlands, fostering community spirit and historical preservation.
Founded in 1894, the Contemporary Club of Redlands is one of the city’s longest-standing cultural institutions, contributing over a century of civic, educational, and artistic enrichment to the community.
Cultural Enrichment
Engaging the community through arts and education.
Historic Preservation
Preserving our architectural heritage for future generations.
Community Engagement
Empowering civic involvement and leadership.
Our Legacy and Vision
Founded in 1894, the Redlands Contemporary Club has been a beacon of cultural and civic leadership. Our mission is to enrich the community through advocacy for the arts, education, and historic preservation. We envision a future where our legacy of community service continues to inspire and empower new generations.
With a rich history of supporting the A.K. Smiley Public Library and the Redlands Bowl, our club has played a pivotal role in local cultural enrichment. We are committed to maintaining our historic clubhouse and fostering an inclusive environment for civic engagement.
Our Journey Through Time
Explore the milestones that have shaped our club's enduring legacy.
1894
Founding of the Club
The Redlands Contemporary Club is established, focusing on women's civic engagement and cultural enrichment.
1904
Clubhouse Construction
Our iconic clubhouse is built, becoming a landmark of architectural and community significance.
1950
Cultural Expansion
The club expands its programs to include a variety of cultural and educational events, enhancing community involvement.
2010
ADA Renovations
Significant renovations are completed to improve accessibility, ensuring our historic building serves all community members.
Civic Engagement Initiatives
Library Development Support
Our club played a pivotal role in the establishment and ongoing support of the A.K. Smiley Public Library, fostering a love for literature and learning in the community.
Cultural Enrichment Programs
We host a variety of cultural events, including literary salons and speaker series, to enrich the cultural landscape of Redlands.
Community Advocacy
Our advocacy efforts focus on education, the arts, and women's civic engagement, contributing to the social fabric of the city.
Architectural Evolution
Clubhouse: Then and Now
A Legacy Documented
A two-story building with a false front stands on a corner, with both automobiles and horse-drawn vehicles in the streets. The Contemporary Club is a women's club organized in 1894 that joined the California Federation of Women's Clubs in 1900. This was the 1904 building at the southeast corner of Vine and Fourth Streets, designed by Arthur B. Benton in a combination of Mission Revival and Tudor (half-timber) styles. It was demolished in 1971. The back of the card is divided, meaning it was produced in or after 1907.
Explore the rich history of the Redlands Contemporary Club through our 125-year commemorative book, 'Club: 125 Years—A Quasquicentennial History' by Mary Burrows. This illustrated volume offers a detailed account of our club's enduring impact and is an essential resource for understanding our legacy.
Join Us in Shaping the Future
Be a part of our vibrant community dedicated to cultural enrichment and civic engagement. Contact us today to learn how you can contribute to our ongoing legacy and make a difference in Redlands.