On October 25, the Acton Woman’s Club (AWC), the oldest continuing organization in town, celebrated its 110th Anniversary with a cocktail party at its Acton Center historic Clubhouse. Invited guests included Town and State officials. Commendations were presented by Select Board chair Dean Charter, and State Senator Jamie Eldridge. Food was generously contributed by Acton grocery stores, and members of the high school jazz band provided music.
Its constitution states that the Acton Woman’s Club’s purpose shall be to
- Maintain and preserve its historic building for the Town of Acton.
- Promote friendship among women.
- Encourage cultural, benevolent, and civic activities of its members.
- Remain non-political and non-partisan.
Long-time Club member, Dianne Hultstrom, did a search of the Club records and listed some of the many ways the Acton Woman’s Club is special:
- Women bought, owned, and have maintained the historic property at 504 Main Street for more than 100 years
- Stayed relevant with changing times.
- Evolved from a club for stay-at-home mothers to a more mature group of women who may be actively employed or retired from active and meaningful careers.
- Survived multiple renovations, including several kitchen updates, new roofs, oil burners, painting inside and out, floor refinishing, and adjustments to become handicapped-accessible, with the help of Acton Community Preservation grants.
- The AWC was the precursor of the League of Women Voters
- The AWC began a hot lunch program in Acton that is now a federal program.
- The AWC was the first organization in town to offer a scholarship for high school graduates.
- The AWC started the square dance club, formerly known as the Square Wheelers.
- The AWC offered ballroom dancing classes for preteens and teens for more than 75 years.
- The AWC is the oldest continuing organization in town.
- The AWC clubhouse has been available for rentals since the original renovation was completed. Proceeds help to maintain the historic building.
The AWC has hosted luncheons and educational programs, provided outreach to the community, and contributed through philanthropic efforts for most or all of its 110 years. Bridge, Mahjong, book groups, museum-goers, and wine and dine activities have continued in popularity as well. On the same day as the celebration, the Club hosted a tour of Mount Auburn Cemetery.
The Acton Woman’s Club presently has 70 members and continues to be open to any woman who wishes to join and contribute to its activities. More information about the Club may be found at https://theactonwomansclub.org/
Marion Maxwell is an occasional contributor and member of the Board of Directors of the Acton Exchange.
