The Austin Poetry Society (APS) was founded in 1949 as the Austin chapter of the Poetry Society of Texas when Miss Frances Alexander sent out invitations to persons in Austin who might be interested in organizing a local chapter. The purpose of the organization is to promote recognition of the art of poetry, to kindle a finer and more intelligent appreciation of poetry, and to encourage the writing and reading of poetry. In 2006 APS was informed that they were no longer under the protective umbrella of the Poetry Society of Texas's non-profit status and applied for a non-profit corporation status as its own entity.
Meetings are held once a month and are open to anyone who loves poetry. The Society also sponsors open microphone readings and a poetry critique group that meet separately. During the program year (which runs September to May) the Society sponsors poetry contests for members, culminating in an Annual Awards Ceremony in May. Since 2007 the Society has sponsored a $1,000 Jenny Lind Porter Scholarship for an Austin undergraduate student enrolled in writing courses. The Society also observes state and national poetry celebrations with a variety of events. Along with a monthly newsletter the Society periodically publishes anthologies.
SOURCE: adapted from the 2010-2011 Austin Poetry Society Yearbook
From the guide to the Austin Poetry Society Records AR. 1994. 007., 1949-2012, (Austin History Center, Austin Public Library, )
