The Federal-style mansion was built in 1805 to a design by Alexander Parris, with later Colonial Revival updates by John Calvin Stevens.

[3] The building is an important local work by Parris, a Boston architect who, under the direction of Joseph Ingraham, helped to define much of Portland's skyline with his beautiful structures.

The club currently hosts seasonal dinner meetings with lectures, brunches, and various social events.

The men's purpose was to "discuss current events," and though never part of the by-laws, to promote the Republican Party agenda.

Because Republicans controlled Maine's government, the club was widely recognized as the de facto seat of political power for decades.