Brotherhood Restored
At the corner of Smokey Row and Mullinix roads, a former place of worship has found new life — not by leaving its roots behind, but by building upon them. Today, Cigar Club of Indiana stands as a unique gathering space where fellowship, tradition and friendship are as central as the cigars themselves.
For founder Raymond Modglin, the club was never about business. It was about preserving something far more meaningful.
“The Cigar Club of Indiana was born out of genuine friendship and a shared sense of community,” Modglin says.
What began as a group of 12 men meeting regularly at a local cigar shop evolved into something deeper.
“We became more than just a group of men who enjoyed cigars; we became a trusted circle of friends who supported one another through life’s challenges and celebrations.”
When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted those gatherings, the idea for something permanent took shape.
“What began as lighthearted conversation quickly became a serious and heartfelt idea: creating a place of our own,” Modglin says.
That idea led to the purchase of the former Salem Church in September 2020.
Transforming a historic church into a modern social club came with both logistical and emotional considerations.
“From the beginning, it was important to us to handle that transition with respect and care,” Modglin explains.
The pews were donated to a church in Illinois, and the building’s original pump organ was gifted to a local congregation. Even today, remnants of the church remain.
“The baptismal pool remains intact … as a nod to the building’s history.”
The renovation itself was extensive. Exterior updates included a new roof, siding and windows, while a more recent interior overhaul brought modern finishes and amenities. Beneath the surface, however, the work was even more demanding.
“Because the church was originally built in the late 1890s, much of the lumber … was still original,” he says. “What may have looked like a renovation project … was really an effort to preserve a historic building while creating a warm, lasting home.”
That sense of home is central to the club’s identity.
“Personally, I have never viewed this as a business or an investment,” Modglin says. “This was never intended to be a profit-driven venture.”
Instead, membership dues simply sustain the building and its operations.
“The true return has always been the community we have built.”
Step inside today, and that community is evident. The club features stadium-style seating, five large-screen TVs and a state-of-the-art HVAC system with advanced air purification, creating a comfortable, welcoming environment. Members also enjoy 24/7 access via a secure entry code.
But the real draw isn’t the amenities — it’s the connection.
“Yes, this is truly a community — a brotherhood of men who have become far more than casual friends,” Modglin says. “To say we are just friends would be a significant understatement.”
That brotherhood extends well beyond the club’s walls. Members gather for golf outings, euchre nights, Texas Hold ’em tournaments, holiday dinners and even vacations with their families.
“We know each other’s wives by name, our children know one another,” he says. “These relationships have moved well beyond simple friendship.”
The club also honors the building’s spiritual roots. Each Wednesday, it hosts a men’s Bible study that has grown into a cornerstone of its culture.
“It is a time for encouragement, accountability and genuine connection,” Modglin says, noting that the group also supports Samaritan’s Purse.
For newcomers, the experience is intentionally immersive.
“I want every new member to truly experience the club, not simply visit it,” Modglin says. “My hope is that every member immediately feels at home, feels welcomed into the brotherhood, and wants to become part of everything the club has to offer.”
That philosophy also challenges common perceptions of cigar culture.
“For us, the cigar is not the identity of the club; it is simply the setting that brings people together,” he explains. “What truly defines us is the brotherhood, the trust and the genuine care that exists among our members.”
From monthly euchre games and an annual golf outing to a New Year’s Eve celebration and regular community-focused events, the club’s calendar reflects its deeper purpose.
“The events and shared experiences are truly the foundation of this club,” Modglin says. “What membership offers goes far beyond the cigar itself.”
Looking ahead, the club aims to grow from 50 to 100 members, but not at the expense of its close-knit feel.
“Growth is important, but preserving the closeness and trust among our members is one of our greatest priorities,” Modglin says.
Each new member is intentionally welcomed into the fold, ensuring the culture remains intact.
Ultimately, Modglin hopes the club’s impact extends into the broader Center Grove and Greenwood communities.
“Our club is built on brotherhood, service and support,” he says. “We would welcome more opportunities to demonstrate that our values extend far beyond the walls of the club.”
In a space once defined by worship, the mission hasn’t changed as much as one might think. It’s still about bringing people together — only now, the fellowship is paired with cigars, conversation and a brotherhood that continues to grow.
