The Hell Fire Club – the 18th century’s most exclusive Members’ Club
When it comes to exclusive members’ clubs there are plenty of fantastic tales, but most not so compelling as the story of the Hell Fire Club, which initially based itself in London and then moved to Buckinghamshire; to a venue which became the ultimate underground aristocratic playground.
The Hell Fire club met during the late 18th Century in the deep recesses of the Hell Fires caves at West Wycombe which were excavated in the 1750s under the supervision of local landowner Sir Francis Dashwood. Hewn out of the rock by local labourers the caves total a quarter of a mile in length, and feature a banqueting hall, three separate caves and at the very end, a temple – where the legendary Hell Fire Club convened. It is here that Britain’s most famous aristocrats and statesmen of the time; Lord Sandwich, John Wilkes and Charles Churchill, as well as famous foreigners such as American inventor Benjamin Franklin held their secret meetings.
Much of the Hell Fire Club intrigue comes from the fact that no-one really knows what happened during those subterranean gatherings, as all members were sworn to secrecy. Women that attended the meetings were required to wear masks to remain anonymous and wore badges declaring the slogan: “Love and Friendship”. They also had to be of “a cheerful, lively disposition to improve the general hilarity”, according to a rare account of the meetings from diarist and traveller of the times, Mrs Lybbe Powys. While most were women of the night, there were undoubtedly occasions when they were joined by adventurous ‘ladies of breeding.’
Although a couple score miles outside the capital the Hell Fire Club promised more than the down-to-earth exclusive members clubs of London. Other Gentlemen’s clubs of the time were packed with aristocrats but they didn’t offer the mischievous allure of the Hell Fire Club. The caves were a million miles from the opulence of the London luxury hotels that most of the out-of-town aristocrats would stay at while in the capital, but they provided an aura and mystery that proved an irresistible attraction to the landed gentry of the time. Indeed, it is probably the very dark and cold surroundings that proved the attraction, and had them clamouring to become members. Although membership was originally limited to 12, it soon expanded as news of the club spread.
These days, the Hell Fire Caves are open to visitors, where you can still see 18th century memorabilia that still resides in the caverns. They are even available for private hire for the ultimate party or corporate event. Perfect, just so long as you aren’t afraid of the dark!
About the Author: Elisha Burberry is an online, freelance journalist and keen movie-goer from Scotland. Her interests include travelling, cooking and photography.
More articles by eburberry
Print Article | Download PDF | 60 views | Oct 24 2007
|
|
