Club of Odd Volumes

A wonderful undisturbed pool of old Boston, the Club of Odd volumes was founded in 1887 as a bibliophiles’ club «to «promote literary and artistic tastes, the exhibition of books, and social relations among [its] members,» and so it remains. While the club is private and the membership small, it’s not so difficult to attend an exhibition here and get a taste of the place. The club has hosted some typography and printing related exhibitions presented with the Society of Printers.
Located in a lovely Federal Style townhouse nearing the top of Beacon Hill, the club is chock-​a-​block full of old engravings, busts of Dante and Lincoln, leather bound books, and a jumble of charming early 19^th century furniture.
My husband and I were fortunate to have our wedding reception here. The food received great praise, the chef, Lisa, was wonderful — aware of contemporary trends in food without serving a self-​conscious science experiment. Dinner was served on sweet Blue Willow china. Nicest of all though is the Club of Odd Volumes’ quirky realness. From its strange Victorian name to its gargantuan blue Staffordshire bowl with scenes of Boston harbor there is nothing corporate about this venue.