History of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Clubs, Inc., ca 1975. Records of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Clubs, Inc. Courtesy of Schlesinger LibraryHistory of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Clubs, Inc., ca 1975. Records of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Clubs, Inc. Courtesy of Schlesinger Library

Charlotte Hawkins Brown and the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc.

February 21, 2019
African American Women
Women's Education
Women's Club Movement
Women in Business

The National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. was established in 1935 “to promote and protect the interests of business and professional women and promote good fellowship among them.”

Can of plums sealed by H. M. Queen Elizabeth at the Women's Institute canning facility in Reading University, England. December 1942. Courtesy of Schlesinger LibraryCan of plums sealed by H. M. Queen Elizabeth at the Women's Institute canning facility in Reading University, England. December 1942. Courtesy of Schlesinger Library

A Symbol of a Grateful Nation

March 24, 2016
World War II
War
Women's Club Movement
Home Economics
Diplomacy
Culinary Collections

More than 70 years after the end of World War II, stories of generosity and community spirit continue to inspire modern audiences. Among Grace E. Frysinger’s papers are materials documenting one such moment featuring networks of women on two continents, a queen, a first lady, and a can of plums.

Julia Ward Howe (oil on canvas), 1906. Courtesy of Schlesinger LibraryJulia Ward Howe (oil on canvas), 1906. Courtesy of Schlesinger Library

The Saturday Morning Club of Boston

September 19, 2013
Women's Club Movement
Julia Ward Howe
Women's History

The archives of the Schlesinger Library include several collections that highlight the women’s club movement and the lives of its founding members. Organized and directed by women, the mission and objectives of the clubs varied, but most provided ample opportunities for self-improvement and voluntary civic work. The earliest clubs were formed shortly after the Civil War, and by the late 19th century, clubs had rapidly spread across the nation.

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