Club Deportivo Dominicano: A cornerstone of culture in Washington Heights
Since 1966, Club Deportivo Dominicano has been a vital space in Washington Heights, nurturing Dominican culture, civic life, and community pride.
By CUNY Dominican Studies Institute
Patricia Bautista Tiburcio, CUNY DSI Research Assistant, Jessy Pérez, CUNY DSI Archivist, Jhensen Ortiz, CUNY DSI Librarian
From apartment to institution
Born from nostalgia and a love of dominoes, in 1966, 31 young Dominicans met at co-founder Conrado Guzmán’s Washington Heights apartment. What began as friendly games grew into a mission to celebrate sports, preserve culture, and unite the Dominican community in New York.
A Night of Dominican Pride at Club Deportivo (1981-01-24) by Normandía MaldonadoCUNY Dominican Studies Institute
A fiesta for faith and nationhood
Before moving to 163rd and Amsterdam, Club Deportivo Dominicano was located at 168th Street, as seen in this 1981 flyer. That night, members celebrated Dominican identity with folkloric dance, live music, and tributes to Our Lady of Altagracia and Juan Pablo Duarte.
What many don’t know about Club Deportivo Dominicano is that it hosted legendary Puerto Rican pianist Charlie Palmieri. His performance brought prestige to the space and affirmed the club’s legacy as an inclusive cultural stage where Dominican and Puerto Rican artistry thrived in Washington Heights.
Normandia Maldonado Honoring Juan Marichal at Club Deportivo Dominicano (circa. 1975) by Normandía MaldonadoCUNY Dominican Studies Institute
Honoring a Dominican legend
Club Deportivo Dominicano celebrated baseball icon Juan Marichal, reflecting its dual role as a cultural and sporting haven where athletic pride and community tradition came together in Washington Heights.
Pageant Participants Honoring Juan Marichal at Club Deportivo Dominicano (1975/1976) by Normandía MaldonadoCUNY Dominican Studies Institute
A space for all generations
Club Deportivo Dominicano fostered intergenerational connections, where youth and elders came together through celebration, tradition, and a deep sense of belonging. Events like this nurtured community life beyond the dance floor or playing field.
Master of Ceremonies at Club Deportivo Dominicano Celebration (1980) by Zunilda FondeurCUNY Dominican Studies Institute
Resilience in NYC
As many social clubs fade, Club Deportivo Dominicano endures. With over 300 members, it continues to thrive as a symbol of resilience, cultural preservation, and Dominican pride in NYC.
You are all set!
Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.