Sliema’s Union Club Turns 200: A Tale of Tea and Tradition

Imagine this: a man, born in 1822, just as the first telegraph lines were being laid, still serving tea in the bustling heart of Sliema. This isn’t a tale of time travel, but a testament to the enduring spirit of the Union Club, which turns 200 this year. Nestled on the vibrant Tower Road, this historic institution has been pouring tea, brewing stories, and serving the community for two centuries.

The Union Club was established in 1822 as an exclusive gentlemen’s club, a place for the elite to socialise, discuss politics, and enjoy a good game of cards. Back then, Sliema was a small fishing village, and the club was one of the first buildings on what is now Tower Road. Over time, as Sliema grew into a bustling town, so did the club’s role, evolving into a community hub that welcomed all.

Today, the club stands as a beautiful example of Maltese architecture, its grand facade a stark contrast to the modern buildings that now surround it. Inside, the air is filled with the scent of aged wood and the hum of conversation, a testament to the countless stories exchanged within its walls.

Tea has been the lifeblood of the Union Club since its inception. In an era when coffee was the beverage of choice, the club’s founders chose tea, importing it directly from China. This tradition continues today, with the club serving a unique blend of tea, a recipe that has been passed down through generations.

Every year, on the first Saturday of March, the club hosts the ‘Tea Party’, a grand event that sees hundreds of people queueing for a cup of the club’s signature brew. It’s a tradition that brings the community together, a celebration of the club’s history and the simple pleasure of a good cup of tea.

But the Union Club’s impact extends beyond tea. It’s a place where traditions are kept alive, from the annual ‘Festa’ celebration to the ‘Bunny Hop’, a unique Easter tradition where children hunt for chocolate eggs hidden around the club’s gardens. It’s also a place where history is preserved, with the club’s library housing an extensive collection of books and artifacts that date back to the 19th century.

The Union Club has seen Sliema transform from a quiet village into a thriving town, and it has evolved with it. It has weathered wars, economic crises, and now, a global pandemic. Through it all, it has remained a constant, a beacon of continuity in a changing world.

As Sliema continues to grow and change, the Union Club stands as a reminder of our past, a living testament to the power of community and tradition. It’s more than just a club; it’s a piece of Malta’s history, a story that continues to unfold over a steaming cup of tea.

So, here’s to the next 200 years of the Union Club. May its kettles continue to boil, its stories continue to be told, and its doors continue to welcome all who seek a taste of history in the heart of Sliema.