The Fermata Club is an important part of Aiken’s rich and unique history. It is situated on the grounds of the former Fermata School for Girls, an institution aimed at instilling the values of nature, social responsibility, and the arts and crafts skills of previous times. Founded in 1919 by internationally famous pianist, Josef Hofmann and his wife Marie Eustis Hofmann, this school was created for the education of young women in Aiken’s Winter Colony. In 1944, a fire burned Fermata School and left only the gymnasium and the headmaster home and infirmary.

In 1952, 16 families leased and later purchased the property with the intention of forming a social club. By the end of that summer, the club had expanded to 116 families. Fermata Club has played an important role in the Aiken community hosting social, swim, and tennis events. A variety of social events including weddings and other milestone parties have been held at Fermata Club. The Fermata Club continues to be a venue for many events each year.