Women’s history features prominently in newly digitized items from Forsyth County Public Library. The materials come from four groups: the American Association of University Women, the Winston-Salem Junior Woman’s Club, the Junior League of Winston-Salem, and the League of Women Voters of Winston-Salem Forsyth County. Though similarly named, each of the four groups operated with distinct objectives and activities.
These materials from the Winston-Salem chapter of the AAUW date from 1948 to 2006. They cover the history and manifold activities of the branch since its founding in 1914. The items — including newsletters, by-laws, meeting minutes, membership directories, reports, brochures, and photographs–document the AAUW’s work to promote the equality and success of women in North Carolina.
Of particular note is the History of the North Carolina State Division American Association of University Women, 1927-1947, compiled and written by Carrie B. Wilson, club historian. Although the report primarily focuses on the history of the organization on a state level, it does include brief notes on the individual chapters that preceded the state division.
Selected annual books chronicle the activities of the Woman’s Club from 1930-2013. Each yearbook includes a roster, list of board members, and other assorted club information–including a song called “The Clubwoman’s Hymn.”
The Junior League of Winston-Salem – 50th Anniversary Newssheet
In 1923, the Junior League of Winston-Salem became the first North Carolina chapter of the Association of Junior Leagues of America. The women of the organization devoted themselves to improving the lives of women and families through voluntarism of all types. Their efforts are documented in the annual reports, newsletters, brochures, and programs from performances and events; these digitized materials date from 1923 through 1996. The 50th and 60th anniversary editions of the chapter’s newsletters in particular are great resources for anyone interested in the League’s activities and early Winston-Salem history.
Over forty years of bulletins (1952-1992) comprise the bulk of these materials. The newsletters document the various political, social, educational, and local issues of concern to League members over the years. Also included is hand-drawn sheet music and lyrics for a club song called We Are The League and information from the group’s annual meetings.
To browse all materials from Forsyth County Public Library, including photographs from early Winston-Salem African American schools, please click here.
