Seattle Federation of Women's Clubs

The Seattle Federation of Women's Clubs (SFWC) was founded in 1889 as a branch of the Washington State Federation of Women's Clubs (WSFWC) and the General Federation of Women's Clubs (GFWC). Its purpose was to bring member clubs together to contribute to the community through service and academic study. The SFWC disbanded in 2000 due to dwindling membership.

From the description of Seattle Federation of Women's Clubs records, 1889-1999. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 77245499

The Seattle Federation of Women's Clubs (SFWC) was founded in 1889 as a branch of the Washington State Federation of Women's Clubs (WSFWC) and the General Federation of Women's Clubs (GFWC). The SFWC was incorporated in 1922 and registered by the state of Washington. In 1966 it was granted non-profit status. Its purpose was to bring member clubs together to contribute to the community through service and academic study. In later years the federation became more centered on community service. For example, the group participated in projects such as the Community Improvement Program, an effort sponsored at the national level by the GFWC and Sears, Roebuck and Company. The program's aim was to improve the quality of life through city beautification projects, recycling programs, environmental awareness poster competitions, and other activities.

In 1908 the SFWC purchased a clubhouse on Harvard Avenue on Capitol Hill. The clubhouse had been purchased with funds acquired through the sale of stock certificates between 1908 and 1923; consequently, the stockholders were granted an interest in the clubhouse and possibly a share of any funds resulting from the sale of the property. In 1973 the clubhouse was sold due to high taxes and maintenance costs. As the by-laws of the SFWC were unclear about what would happen in the event of a sale, the SFWC filed a lawsuit against Washington State in order to determine if it would be legal to sell the building without having to surrender profits to remaining stockholders. The courts ruled in the SFWC's favor. The SFWC disbanded in 2000 due to dwindling membership.

From the guide to the Seattle Federation of Women's Clubs records, 1889-1999, (University of Washington Libraries Special Collections)