The Petroleum Club of Wichita, established in 1949 by local oil producer Jack Heathman, was conceived as a private gathering place for professionals in the oil and gas industry. Heathman drew inspiration from a similar club in Denver and sought to create a comparable venue in Wichita. Initially, the club operated from the basement of the Lassen Hotel, providing a space where members could socialize over cocktails during an era when public liquor consumption was restricted.

Over the years, the club relocated several times:

1952: Moved to the ninth floor of the KFH Building (now Sutton Place) at Market and William.

1956: Relocated to the Union Center Building (now The National) at First and Main, occupying most of the second floor.

1975: Settled into its current location on the ninth floor of the Ruffin Building at 100 N. Broadway.

In its prime during the 1980s, the Petroleum Club boasted over 800 members.

In 2024, marking its 75th anniversary, the club underwent significant changes. New ownership took over, and plans were announced to rebrand the establishment as “The Ninth Floor Club and Venue.” This rebranding aims to honor the club’s rich history while appealing to a broader audience beyond the oil industry. Renovations include modernizing the interior and expanding member-exclusive areas, such as a new bar and dining space named “The Petroleum Room.”

Today, the club continues to operate as a private business and social venue, offering lunch services to members on weekdays, selected dinner nights, and hosting various private events.