Incorporated in the 1930’s the Ukrainian-American Civic Center is one of the oldest operating ethnic clubs in the area. Historically ethnic social clubs served the social welfare needs of immigrant families who came over in the “great wave” of immigration at the turn-of-the-twentieth century.

The Club in the Thirties

The current building was built in 1900 to serve the needs of the growing Eastern European immigrants centered around the Black Rock neighborhood. The club provided an opportunity for newcomers to America to practice their culture, meet potential friends and mates, and it provided a venue for Ukrainian cultural events. In addition, the club provided a way for these new Ukrainian-Americans to learn about job opportunities from other Ukrainians. At the time, the neighborhood was bustling with industrial activity, with a multitude of factories in the neighborhood, including Pratt and Letchworth Steel, Pratt and Lambert Paint, and Pierce Arrow. By the mid-2000, club membership was nearing only eight members. Under new leadership, The Ukrainian-American Civic Center, as it is currently known, has welcomed a new generation of patrons with a series of special events including a raucous Oktoberfest celebration.