11 Most Exclusive Private Clubs in America

4. Union League of Philadelphia

Location: Philadelphia

Founded in: 1862

Old Philadelphians are the equivalent of the Boston Brahmins of New York Knickerbockers, the wealthy elite of the city tracing its origin back to the first settlers that sailed across the Atlantic. It was them who founded Union League of Philadelphia in 1862, in an effort to support President Abraham Lincoln. It is the center of all major political and business dealing in Philadelphia, especially those concerning old money and old boys. Union League currently holds the first place on the Five Star Platinum Club list, based on amenities it offers to its members. Ever since its origins, one of the main pillars of its policies was the strong support for the US armed forces, depicted by two statues in front of its building. It is one of the rare private clubs that allows public access and tours throughout its facilities.

Union League of Philadelphia Celebrates the 63rd Birthday of the USAF