 Osterville Men's Club |
Celebrating 75 Years
The Osterville Men's Club
Founded 1957
A Historic Beginning
Union Hall, built in 1897 — the birthplace of the Osterville Men’s Club. | Our story begins in the basement of one of Osterville’s most historic buildings — originally constructed in 1897 as Union Hall at the corner of Main Street and West Bay Road. For nearly fifty years, Union Hall hosted minstrels, concerts, and plays. During World War II, Seabees of the U.S. Navy Construction Battalion created a gathering space on the ground floor for soldiers stationed in Crosbytown, now the site of Crosby Yacht Yard. In 1947, local veterans formally incorporated the Osterville Veterans’ Association (OVA), transforming Union Hall into their headquarters — a place of camaraderie and service that continues to this day. |
The Fox Hole
On the ground floor of Union Hall is a place many Ostervillians recognize — The Fox Hole. The red fox painted above the arched canopy has watched generations gather there. Known affectionately by some as ranking “supreme in Osterville dives,” it has long been a summer crossroads — “swarmed with vets, Cape kids sporting Nantucket Reds, and all walks betwixt.” But beyond its colorful reputation lies a deeper significance. It is here, in 1957, that sixteen men met in Veterans’ Hall with the idea of forming a men’s group dedicated to fellowship and community. |
The Fox Hole - where OMC began in 1957 |
Growth and Continuity
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Membership grew steadily: |
● 150 members |
A motion to increase membership to 300 in 1965 found no favor. |
While the Osterville Veterans’ Association and the Osterville Men’s Club now serve as separate organizations, both trace their roots to Union Hall and to the spirit of fellowship that first brought sixteen men together in 1957. Each continues, in its own way, to promote community, connection, and service within the village.
As the Osterville Men’s Club marks its 75th anniversary, we do so with appreciation for that shared beginning and for the enduring contributions of both organizations to the life of the village. Though our paths have diverged, the spirit of fellowship that took shape in Union Hall continues to guide our work today.
Mail | Join OMC Today!Osterville Men’s Club welcomes men from all over Cape Cod. Join us for friendship, activities and to give back to the community! © 2024 Osterville Men's Club Accessibility Statement |
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