THE

DOMINIC "JOE" NEGRI

CLUBHOUSE

40 School Street, Groton Ct

(860) 445-5262

WELCOME TO

40 SCHOOL STREET!!!!

Home of the

U.S. SUBMARINE VETERANS

Groton Base

Pictures compliments of Shipmate John Wynn

CLUB HISTORY

The building at 40 School Street was built roughly in 1895. It was originally owned by the Thames Lodge Corporation.

Shortly after 1900, the building was converted into the Groton Play House, and later the Groton Theatre. The stage still remains the same, and stored in the attic are the original opera chairs.

Afterwards, the building was used for many years as a meeting hall by by the Elks lodge.

In 1966 the members of SUBVETS Inc. Groton Base purchased 40 School Street for their club house through the foresight of Dominic "Joe" Negri. It was originally designated as the National Headquarters for the SUBVETS Organization, but this designation was removed in the mid 80s.

Over the years, "The Club" as it has affectionately been called has gone through some tough times, and good times. Through the perseverance over the years of shipmates like Joe Negri, Morgan Bailey, John Wagner, Gerry Tighe, Dave Shoaff, Chris Quijada and many others, the doors are still open, and it is better than ever.

The Club been remodeled, and refurbished several times. The downstairs area has been designated as "The Pump Room" and the area on the second deck is called the "Conning Tower".

It is used for many events put on by the Groton Base House Committee, including special dinners, and their famous brunches. It is also used by the membership for their monthly meetings, and ceremonies. The Thames River Chapter of U.S. SUBMARINE VETERANS World War II also hold their monthly meetings there.

The Club can also be used for private functions at a nominal fee for events like Retirements, Reunions, CPO Initiations, Weddings, and other functions and parties. For additional information with regards to cost, and reservations contact Chris Quijada, at the number provided above.

After Joe Negri's death, "The Club" was renamed the Dominic "Joe" Negri Memorial Club in memory of Joe, who through his persistence and vigilance we are fortunate to have this building. In 1999 Shipmate Morgan Bailey purchased the sign which is displayed over the front door. Also in the Dining room there is a showcase with some of Joe's memorabilia.

Today, SUBVETS Groton Base is still the only Base in the organization 36 years after it's inception, that has their own club house. Groton Base is very fortunate, and grateful to Joe Negri for what we have today.

We would be remiss if we didn't mention that "The Club" has survived all these years through the many donations, and many hours of hard work, and tender loving care that many members have donated over the years.

Renovations and improvements are ongoing. Donations and project coordination is done by Tom Connors.

"The Club" has always been, and continues to be maintained by dedicated volunteers who selflessly devote their time and efforts every Saturday morning towards keeping the building cleaned, and maintained for the rest of the membership. We would not have the best looking club around if it wasn't for these VOLUNTEERS!