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| Annie B. Brown ca 1909 |
The ladies in most growing communities - those ranking as almost and as full-blown cities - had local 'social clubs.' These weekly or monthly get togethers might revolve around good works, religious studies, social activities, education, literature, business or politics.
These were status symbols for many women and a clear indication a community was civilized. Most of the women were members of the growing middle class or the upper class. The one exception was the religious women's groups and some social groups who welcomed all women regardless of social status or education. Most,however, did reflect the racial divides of the time and so there women in similar groups within the African-American community. Research is thin as to what might have been going on among various other ethnic groups in the time period. Like those at the bottom rung of opportunity who did not have the time in their struggle for survival to particpate in clubs, these groups may have been likewise busy attending family and life.
After study of some local social clubs and groups, I am preparing a program sharing stories of these "Social Club" women as part of my "Personas." "Personas" are programs I am developing to do historical costumed programs.
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