History

In 1936, an "Open Table" for lunch was started by members of the Union League. During this period of time, club tables were starting to be formed at the League for lunch. Because of space limitations in the North and South Marble Rooms, this "Open Table" was placed in the Edwin N. Benson Room adjacent to the South Marble Room. Edwin Benson had been a founder and early benefactor of the Union League. In 1948, the name of the table was changed to the "Benson Table." Over the years, members of the Table have been prominent and active in League affairs, with many members holding office as Directors or Vice Presidents of the Union League. Most recently (1997) a Bensonite (as members of the Table are addressed) has been elected President of the League.

Over the Years, the Benson Table grew and became by far the largest Table in the League. It has been the Table of choice of many prominent Philadelphians and has contributed greatly to the leadership of the League with many Benson Table members serving on the Board of Directors, as officers, and on committees of the League. Among its members were Admiral Logan Ramsey, who was in charge of the Marine Air Forces at the famous Battle of Midway, and Ludlow Wray, who coached the professional football team on Erie Avenue called the Yellow Jackets, which eventually became the Philadelphia Eagles. There were prominent lawyers, judges, and physicians too numerous to mention.

MISSION STATEMENT
The purpose of the Benson Table is to provide a place, daily, in the Benson Room where members can enjoy their noonday meal among cordial companions. Additionally speaker forums, gourmet dinners, golf outings and other member events provide opportunities for fellow Besonites to enjoy each other's company.