DeKalb Women's Club Records

The Woman's Club of DeKalb was organized on May 29, 1896, at the home of Mrs. John Taylor.  At the first meeting Mrs. J.T. Bowles was elected president; Mrs. J.H. Davis, vice president; Mrs. Samuel Bradt, secretary; and Mrs. Bailey Rosette, treasurer.  There were twenty-seven charter members.  At the close of the club year the membership grew to sixty-seven.  The Club was an outgrowth of an earlier organization called "The Young People's Literary Circle."  Founded in 1889 this organization included both men and women.  The early interests of the club were entirely cultural.  The programs were composed of topics assigned to members who were obligated to write and read papers prepared by themselves.  English authors and their works, English cathedrals, and colleges and historical places progressing to similar topics in American history were the themes which held the member's interest.  Before the close of the first year, however, an active interest in practical community affairs was evident.  This interest resulted in support of a compulsory education law, street sprinkling, city health, school playgrounds, and in 1899, a sewage law was supported. In 1912, the name of the organization was changed to the DeKalb Woman's Club, a new constitution was adopted, and the Club incorporated.  Over the years the Club has continued their community support.  For example, the purchasing and later donation to the City of DeKalb of Annie's Woods for use as a public park, the restoration and furnishing of the Little House on the Ellwood House grounds, and presenting scholarships to outstanding students are just a few of the Club's accomplishments.

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