In 1917, a group of women, wives of university faculty and faculty themselves, organized with the object of “promoting good fellowship among its members and [to] further the social welfare of the University.” Creating the Faculty Women’s Club, this group of women entertained, supported and enhanced University life. Some of its early members included Mrs. Sisson, Mrs. Merriam, Mrs. Clapp, and Mrs. Pantzer. Projects included a kitchenette for the Student Union building, the Junior Award for girls, the Synadelphic House for Women and general social events. At the end of each monthly meeting, the women entertained various speakers and presentations, from the Montana Power Company’s “Beams of Light” to Scottish Ballads with piano accompaniment.
In 1967, the name of the organization changed to The University of Montana Women’s Club. The Club assisted several Missoula community organizations such as the Y.W.C.A. [Young Women’s Christian Association], the Missoula Museum of the Arts, and the Missoula Children’s Theater.
From the guide to the The University of Montana Women’s Club Records, 1917-1978, (University of Montana--Missoula Maureen and Mike Mansfield Library Archives and Special Collections)
