West Bend, Wi – The West Bend Woman’s Club celebrated its 125th anniversary this week and featured some historical highlights about their advancements in society and increasing role in the community.
At the gathering there were several tables filled with memorabilia, newspaper clippings, West Bend Children’s Theatre programs, and photographs.
Below is a copy of historical records in honor of the WBWC’s 100th anniversary.
The table settings at the West Bend Country Club were decorated for the 125th anniversary with unique teacups and saucers.
Members of the West Bend Children’s Theatre, a program started by the WBWC, were recognized for their years of dedication.
There is a fascinating history behind the WBWC. Programs in the era from 1899 – 1909 focused on topics such as ‘how to furnish a home, picture hanging and draperies, and should children believe in Santa Claus.’
Advance to 1999 and the women were collecting food baskets for the needy, stitching smile dolls, and offering support to the ‘Teen Center.’
In between those 100 years the WBWC generated an impressive ledger:
In 1910 – programs focused on ‘the family table in times of low wages and high prices, immigration, and care of the feeble minded.’
Some of the early fundraisers included card parties, vaudeville programs, musicals, pageants, bridge marathons and hobby shows.
There was also activism including a ‘protest of Indian tent shows at the County Fair, writing letters to the Railroad Company to request better accommodations for Jackson and Rockfield high school student to prevent their waiting until midnight at the depot, and speaking before the council to express disapproval of the city’s granting bar permits in the City Park (Regner Park).’
The WBWC focused a lot on health issues including donating $25 to disabled soldiers and $250 to furnish a room at the hospital, contributed to the hospital’s Iron Lung Fund and helped in the surgical dressing rooms.
Between 1940-49 there was an entry about polio reaching a 300% increase in Washington County, nursing shortages, and the club being allowed extra coffee and sugar by the rationing board. “War stamps were sold at meetings. Waste paper, waste fat, tin cans, books, nylon and silk hosiery were donated to the Victory Drive.”
Rich history and a servant’s heart is at the foundation of the WBWC. Happy anniversary.
