History
The National Tennis Club (NTC) was formed in 1980 when the original court tennis court was destroyed by a series of arsenic fires in 1945 and 1946, was completely rebuilt. The only thing that remains original is the floor and some of the lower walls, dating back to 1880.
A group of devoted players and enthusiasts, the National Court patrons, including the former President, Clarence C. Pell, provided funding for the restoration through the United States Court Tennis Association (USCTA). The reopening of the court, known as the National Tennis Court, was celebrated informally September 29, 1979. The official dedication was observed in August, 1980, following ceremonies at the conclusion of the first world doubles tournament for the Tiffany Cup, presented by Tiffany & Co.
The National Tennis Court has been considered to be the official court of the USCTA since its restoration in 1980. As the game has grown, new institutions have been formed, such as the U.S. Court Tennis Preservation Foundation (USCTPF) to provide complimentary leadership and funding for the public enjoyment of this unique amateur game.
The Club originally was only opened for play in summer months, but the court is now in use year round. The club has an active membership of approximately 100 players. It is also one of the busiest court tennis courts in the United States and has a creative play program for all levels, including club handicaps, inter-city play, night leagues, and national and international tournaments. Club members compete worldwide.
As with any small organization, it is the members' contributions that keep the Club alive as one of the premiere stops for visiting players. The Club has been led by its governors, Jonathan Isham, Barclay Douglas, Sr., Clarry Pell, Jim Wharton, Jonathon Pardee and Jane Lippincott. Each of these has helped guide the Club through various stages of growth.
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