NOLTC History

December 15, 1876: Club founded — the oldest tennis club in the U.S. Located at Jackson & Prytania. 3 courts; rent: $150/year.
1886: Moved courts temporarily to Fourth & Prytania.
1890: Club incorporated. First annual handicap tournament (trophy engraved in 1900).
1891: Leased land at Foucher, Dryades & Amelia.
1897: Land company formed to purchase 15 lots for $3,800.
February 24, 1898: Club moved to Saratoga site. Grass courts & clubhouse opened with tea for 150+ members, including ladies.
1898: Clubhouse constructed for $1,500. First club tournament held (winner: G.W. Watham, the first, last, and only Englishman to win a tournament).

1901: Launched Gulf States Tournament — oldest Southern sanctioned tournament.
1908: Club exercised purchase option. Financing by Leigh Carrol & Andre W. Seguin.
December 1934: Hosted first Sugar Bowl Tennis Tournament (Mid-Winter Sports Association).
1935: Launched City Tournament, including first women’s singles bracket at NOLTC.

1924: Clubhouse remodeled. First clay courts built (still maintained grass courts).
1926: NOLTC won 9 Southern titles in one year — a Southern Tennis record.
1950s–1960s: Club became a social hub — debutante parties, Mardi Gras dinners, poolside events, and cocktail dances.

1971: Members voted to build a new facility at Laurel & Jefferson.
Late 1972: Construction began on new clubhouse and facilities.
Fall 1973: New facility completed (current location):
- 12 rubico courts (lighted)
- 75' x 35' swimming pool
- Modern clubhouse with grill, locker rooms, balconies,, and fitness center
1984: NOLTC inducted into the Louisiana Tennis Association Hall of Fame.

1933: NOLTC member Cliff Sutter competed in the 1933 Wimbledon championships, reaching the Round of 16.
2021-2022: NOLTC member Michael J. McNulty III served as USTA President.