Call Number:

16

Repository:

Historical Society of the Phoenixville Area

Extent:

2.5 linear feet

Language:

English

Date:

1903-2010 (inclusive)

Creator:

Woman's Club of Phoenixville

Abstract:

The Woman's Club of Phoenixville, one of the two oldest women's clubs in the state, was organized in 1884, granted state federation in 1897, and incorporated into the General Federation of Women's Clubs in 1901. As of 2013, its goal is "to develop the educational, civic and social interest of its members and to advance the welfare of the community." The Woman's Club of Phoenixville records, 1903-2010, consist of eight scrapbooks (1958-1978), about six minute books (1959-2010), annual reports/membership directories (1903-circa 2005, incomplete), and a few other materials from the Club.

The Woman's Club of Phoenixville, one of the two oldest women's clubs in the state, was organized in 1884, granted state federation in 1897, and incorporated into the General Federation of Women's Clubs in 1901. Originally named the Ladies Library Society and later the Reading Circle, its goal was "to prevent the formation of intellectual rust." Members had to be married and dues were $2.50. In 1889, the Reading Circle was dissolved and the Woman's Club was organized. The club's mission was enhanced and it's stated object was "to develop civic, educational, and social interests among its members; to advance the welfare of the community; and to promote the work and progress of the Pennsylvania Federation of Women's Clubs." Membership in the club became very robust, allowing for the creation of several subsections, including the Education Department and the Garden Division. The Junior Woman's Club of Phoenixville was organized in 1938 and became federated in 1939.

Since its organization, the Woman's Club of Phoenixville has raised money for numerous projects, including building funds for Phoenixville Hospital. It also sponsored the first night school for immigrants in the area around 1920. As of 2013, the club continues its efforts to help organizations in the community as well as to provide study, service, and social activities for its members. Each year, it gives scholarship gifts to three high school graduates at the high school.

Bibliography:

Phoenixville, Pennsylvania Area InterService Club. "Woman's Club of Phoenixville."Accessed September 24, 2013. http://www.interserviceclub.org/womans%20club.htm

This collection consists of eight scrapbooks, 1958-1978; about one-half dozen minute books, 1959-2010; and annual reports/membership directories, 1903-circa 2000 (incomplete). Several of the scrapbooks were created by the Junior Woman's Club, the Garden Class of the Woman's Club, and the Club's Education Department. There are also two printed histories (1986 and 1994), a certificate given by the Pennsylvania Federation of Women's Clubs (1960), by-laws booklets, and a few other materials from the Club.