Dumfriesshire, including Langholm, was a strong supporter of the Liberal Party. Some of the Liberals’ main policies at the time were social reforms (introducing the beginnings of the welfare state), promotion of Irish home rule and opposition to tariffs.

Prominent members of the Langholm Liberal Club were the town provost Thomas Easton, grain merchant, and Charles Paisley, tannery owner. The secretary and treasurer was David Harkness, a draper.

The club’s premises at 44 High Street were owned by Arthur Bell, president of the rival Eskdale Unionist Association.

The club’s facilities included accommodation for the caretaker, James Ovens, baker.

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