Fragment Society (Boston, Mass. : 1812-)

The Fragment Society, the oldest continuous sewing circle in Boston, Massachusetts, held its first meeting on October 19, 1812. At a second meeting, held on October 22, a constitution was adopted and the society's work began. The name was taken from the New Testament story of the miracle of the loaves and fishes: after feeding five thousand people, Jesus enjoined his disciples "to gather up the fragments that remained that nothing be lost." Echoing this advice, the Fragment Society's first constitution stated the society's purpose: "...to do something towards relieving the want and promoting the comfort of the suffering poor." More specifically, "the design of this Society shall be to assist in clothing the destitute, more especially destitute children, and to loan bedding and infants' garments to such mothers as are not able to procure things necessary for their comfort during the period of their confinement." During the first year 506 families received aid, including many who felt the effects of the War of 1812. After a few years the Fragment Society abandoned its loan policy, but it continues to give clothing, shoes, and bedding to the needy.

The clothing that the Fragment Society gives away is purchased, with the exception of layettes, which the members sew at their meetings. The Fragment Society rarely gives other forms of assistance, but some cases require special consideration, such as the purchase of a prosthetic device or a small allowance for an impoverished scholarship student. While most requests for assistance come through charitable organizations, any manager may request assistance for an individual known to her. The Fragment Society usually limits assistance to the greater Boston area; during times of national emergency, however, such as war, aid has been more widespread.

In 1816 the Fragment Society was incorporated in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. It is administered by a president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, and a board of managers that has ten to fourteen members. Initially the officers met monthly and the members annually. Today there are five meetings a year that any member may attend; the board of managers continues to meet separately. At the annual meeting, which usually includes a guest speaker, the members vote for officers by "touching the Ballot" to indicate approval.

Membership in the Fragment Society is selective. There are usually about 200 dues-paying members; many are daughters or granddaughters of past members. These memberships formed the basis of the Fragment Society's permanent fund, which has been increased by bequests and investments. The interest on this principal supplies most of the funds for the society's charitable work.