The University of Iowa Libraries

Access: The records are open for research.

Use: Copyright held by the donor has not been transferred to The University of Iowa.

Acquisition: The records (donor nos. 1166, 1167) were donated by Audrey Kofoed and Marjorie Rummels in 2008.

Preferred Citation: West Branch Women's Clubs (Cedar County, Iowa) records, Iowa Women's Archives, University of Iowa Libraries, Iowa City, Iowa

Repository:	Iowa Women's Archives
Address:	100 Main Library University of Iowa Libraries Iowa City, IA 52242
Phone:	319-335-5068
Curator:	Kären Mason
Email:	lib-women@uiowa.edu
Website:	http://www.lib.uiowa.edu/iwa

The records of the West Branch Women´s Clubs are comprised of seven local clubs formed between 1895 and 1911.

The Priscilla Club was organized in 1895. It was formed to promote literary culture, encourage sociability, fine arts, and all similar pursuits that would refine and elevate sisterhood. Its motto was "no steps backward;" its colors were pale green and white.

The Klatter Klub was organized in 1911 by young women for "social enjoyment" and the "promotion of friendship." New members were initiated with various rituals described in the collection such as reciting an oath while performing tasks like threading a needle while sitting on a barrel.
The United Methodist Women´s Club (UMW) was divided into "Circles" named after women in the Bible. Its purpose was "to know God and experience freedom as whole persons through Jesus Christ, and to develop a creative, supportive fellowship." The Women´s Society of Christian Service (WSCS) of the Methodist Church was also divided into "Circles" named after women in the Bible. Members met twice a month and worked to unite all women of the church in service, help develop and support Christian work among women and children, and study the needs of the world.

The Carnation Club was organized in 1906. The Club´s colors were pink and white. Members gathered for potlucks and encouraged discussion about such topics as books they had read, new words, jokes, and unusual news items.

The Wapsinonoc Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) met monthly. Its meetings included prayers and educational guest speakers, and strove to promote patriotism.

The LAL Club members enjoyed discussions on recipes, book reviews, and sewing tips.

The collection also includes a few materials relating to the West Branch Federated Woman´s Club (WBFWC).

The West Branch Women's Clubs records date from 1903 to 1999 and measure 2.5 linear feet.  The records are divided into four series: Priscilla Club (1912-1975); Klatter Klub (1922-1988); Methodist Women (1954-1988); Other West Branch clubs records (1939-1999).  The Priscilla Club series includes a novel that appears to have been written and circulated among club members as well as a series of poems that describe each of their members.

This collection is indexed under the following subject terms.

Corporate Names:
West Branch Women's Clubs (Cedar County, Iowa)

Dates:
20th century

Topics:
Clubs
Community organizations

Geographic Names:
United States -- Iowa -- West Branch

Genre/Form of Materials:
Archives
Administrative records
Photographs

Browse:
Women's Clubs and Organizations