The Wharf Street Debating Club began as a working class men's club in the Foster Ward area of Belleville, Ontario. At the time of municipal elections the club runs a 'Bun Feed', at which prospective candidates address the group. For many years, women candidates were admitted only to give their speech, then had to leave the room. The exclusion of women from the club continued until November 1988, when Julia Drake crashed the bun feed, dressed as a man. After that, the event became open to all.