The Philadelphia Club, founded in 1834, is the oldest city club in the United States. It is also one of the oldest gentlemen’s clubs in America. Notable members included General George Meade, Theodore Roosevelt, Jr., Owne Wister, and members of Philadelphia’s elite for over 175 years. The Club is located at the northwest corner of 13th and Walnut Streets in Center City Philadelphia. The guests for Mark’s soccer presentation included Mark’s father, Jerry Franek, and Mark’s son, River. Jerry reminded his son and grandson at least twice about Groucho Marx’s famous quip: “I refuse to join any club that would have me as a member.” While this witticism has several meanings, Jerry confirmed he meant it as a clever paradox intimating, playfully, that any group accepting Jerry must lack standards.
