Library Whist Club Records (DeKalb)

Collection

Identifier: RHC-RC-225

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The records for the Library Whist Club date from 1898 to 2006 and include membership lists, minute books, correspondence, and whist game rules. The minute books date from January 26, 1903 through November 3, 1930. The early minutes are not included in the collection. A history of the club can be gleaned from the constitution, minutes, and newspaper articles while the rules of the game can be found in the publications.

Dates

created: 1898-1993
Other: Date acquired: 07/05/1995

Conditions Governing Access

There are no restrictions on access to the collection.

Conditions Governing Use

Property rights in the collection belong to the Regional History Center; literary rights are dedicated to the public.

Biographical or Historical Information

The Library Whist Club was formed on January 17, 1898 by Annie Glidden. The purpose of the organization was two fold: the social aspect of playing whist (the forerunner of bridge) and the philanthropic purpose of providing books for the newly created DeKalb Public Library located on the upper floor of the old City Hall. The library later moved to the third floor of the old Daily Chronicle building on Lincoln Highway. In 1930 the library opened its present building on Oak Street. There are 12 members of the club and 22 patronesses. Patronesses are associated with the club and assist in money raising projects but do not play cards. All funds beyond minimal club expenses were given to the library. Each member was required to read an assigned number of books in order to make sure that each was of good moral character. Now the library makes the selection. By their 25th anniversary the club donated 1,600 volumes to the Library. During World War I the funds were used for war work and for the care of French orphans. On July 20, 1948 the club celebrated their 50th Anniversary. By this time the club had contributed well over $3000 including over 2500 volumes to the library. Over 10,000 volumes have been donated to the library.

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