Last week I ventured to New York City for a work seminar and found myself in Midtown at the historic Friar’s Club.

The club was established in 1904, and the restored, Italian architecture and intricate woodwork of the building transports visitors back in time through the club’s history.

Our seminar was held in the George Burns Room, which was converted into a meeting space from its original conception as a bedroom. The building was once an elaborate home but since has been adapted for the use of club members. The club was established by vaudeville entertainers as a refuge over a century ago. It was mostly comprised of celebrities and comedians, with the occasional female honoree, such as Lucile Ball, well before females were admitted. Famous for their risqué celebrity roasts, the boys club boasted honorees and roasters such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Chevy Chase, Robin Williams, Richard Pryor, Billy Crystal, Johnny Carson, Bruce Willis, Betty White and many more.

Celebrity roasts originated in the club but soon took on a life of their own. Many other shows, networks and clubs began to follow suit and host roasts of their own. One member and entertainment legend, Milton Berle, was one of the greatest advocates of welcoming women into the club as members and not just honored guests. Women were inducted into the Friar’s Club in 1977 and now make up a good portion of the membership and the club’s history. Visitors can find the newly named Barbara Streisand bar downstairs. The Barbara Bar is in good company among many other famously named rooms, such as the Frank Sinatra, Ed Sullivan, Billy Crystal, Milton Berle, William B. Williams and Joey E. Lewis rooms.

— Angelique Platas, digital coordinator