About The Historic

Portia Club Clubhouse

On Tuesday, November 1, 1927, the Portia Club opened its doors to the public for the first time, marking a significant milestone in the cultural history of Payette, Idaho. Located at 225 North 9th Street, this remarkable clubhouse was the culmination of a shared vision by a dedicated group of women who sought to elevate the welfare and cultural vibrancy of their community. Though the Portia Club’s origins trace back to a modest tea party in 1895, its impact quickly expanded. Over the next two decades, the women of the club made invaluable contributions — they founded the Payette City Library, funded Children’s Free Health Clinics, organized the iconic Payette Apple Blossom Festival, and sponsored lectures on laws affecting women and children. They hosted debates on women’s rights and tirelessly championed the promotion of art and literature throughout the city.

The idea of a permanent clubhouse was born in 1919, when the women raised $60 through a community dance. This modest sum was only the beginning. Over the next eight years, the club’s members, through persistence and dedication, raised a total of $4,366 — a substantial amount for the time. With this, they set their sights on turning their dream into reality. They selected I.C. Whiteley, a distinguished architect from nearby Fruitland, to design a building that would capture their hopes and aspirations. The chosen Spanish-style design was meant not only to be functional but to add beauty to their beloved city. The result? A stately and enduring structure that continues to stand as a testament to their passion, foresight, and love for Payette.

But as time passed, the women of the Portia Club slowly faded from public memory, and their remarkable accomplishments were all but forgotten. The building, once a lively hub of activity, fell into neglect. Without significant intervention, the clubhouse seemed destined for ruin.

In February of 2005, a small group of passionate volunteers rallied to preserve this iconic landmark. The deed to the Portia Club was transferred to “The Friends of the Portia Club, Inc.,” a non-profit organization dedicated to restoring and safeguarding the building’s rich history. Over the next six years, with the help of local businesses, volunteers, private donations, and grants, the Portia Club underwent a complete restoration. The once-dilapidated building was brought back to life, its original charm lovingly restored, and its legacy preserved for future generations.

Today, the Portia Club stands as a unique and unforgettable venue, offering an enchanting setting for your special events. Whether you’re planning a wedding, baby shower, reunion, or any other celebration, the Portia Club’s rich history and timeless beauty provide a distinctive backdrop for your occasion. Featuring a spacious hall, a stage, and a well-equipped kitchen, it’s the perfect place to create lasting memories with your loved ones. When you host an event at the Portia Club, you’re not only creating cherished moments for yourself and your guests — you’re also helping to sustain the ongoing preservation of this historic gem, while supporting nonprofit organizations, after-school, and community programs.

From humble beginnings to a flourishing future, the Portia Club remains a beloved symbol of the strength, determination, and community spirit of the women who founded it. Their legacy lives on, inviting all who enter to be a part of something truly special.