Founded in 1905 by 28 visionary and civic-minded women, the Stamford Woman’s Club began as a beacon of community and service in Stamford. Early meetings were held in the lecture rooms of the Universalist and Methodist Churches and often in members’ homes, with Mrs. Edward L. Scofield frequently hosting. By the end of its first year, the club had grown to 44 members, united by a shared commitment to civic engagement and philanthropy. The club was federated in 1906, joining the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC), and officially incorporated in 1911. Membership dues were just $1.00 per year.
The dream of a dedicated clubhouse emerged early in the club’s history. In 1909, members began raising funds with proceeds from lectures by Dr. William J. Long, a Stamford writer. This vision was realized in 1919 when the club unanimously voted to purchase the home of Mrs. King at 45 Prospect Street. The clubhouse became a vibrant hub of activity, with membership swelling to 700 and departments flourishing, including Junior, Drama, Civics, Conservation, Garden, Literature, and Music. Drama groups thrived, with one even performing at the Waldorf Astoria. By 1921, the club’s drama library boasted over 3,000 books, and the Woman’s Exchange provided an outlet for members to showcase their talents in cooking, knitting, and more.
In 1927, the Stamford Woman’s Club hosted a landmark event: a public lecture by celebrated poet Carl Sandburg, who captivated audiences with reflections on Abraham Lincoln, American folk songs, and the essence of Americanism.
In 1979, the club sold its beloved clubhouse and transitioned to meeting at the First United Methodist Church. Today, the Stamford Woman’s Club meets at Zody’s 19th Hole Restaurant. Despite this change, the club’s mission and impact remained steadfast. Special interest groups have spanned areas such as Community Concerns, Student Scholarships, showcasing the breadth of the club’s dedication to Stamford.
Over the years, the Stamford Woman’s Club has made an extraordinary impact in our community, contributing nearly $1 million dollars in scholarships, and community organizations.
As we continue into our second century, the Stamford Woman’s Club remains committed to empowering our community through service, generosity, and shared purpose. Together, we honor our legacy while building a brighter future for Stamford.
