Monday, April 4, 2011

The Woman's Club of Matawan Celebrates 95 years!

This afternoon, I had the pleasure of attending The Woman's Club's 95th anniversary celebration at their lovely clubhouse on Jackson Street. 

Ladies from the Matawan Club and Women's Club representatives from all over the state gathered to listen to the long history of accomplishments that have been achieved since the federation of the local club in 1916.  The club recognized three local organizations, including MAPL, and donated $95 to the library for the purchase of books in honor of their 95 years.  To wrap up the afternoon's festivities, member Ruth Alt, made an informative and animated presentation about the Matawan shark attacks of 1916. 

Some interesting facts that you may not know:

The General Federation of Women's Clubs, founded in 1890, established 75% of the libraries in America!  More recently, they fulfilled the commitment made at the Presidents' Summit for America's Future by donating $12.5 million in books and materials to public and school libraries.

Locally, the Matawan Club founded the PTA, started the Public Health Association, and worked to establish the current library. 

MAPL has worked with the Woman's Club for many years to display their wishing tree in December.  The club's members make ornaments to adorn the tree, then ask for donations of books for the library at the Clinton Street after-school program.  In exchange for a donation, library patrons can take home an ornament.  We hope to continue this tradition for years to come and possibly work with the Club on other projects.

It was truly a treat to be in the company of so many industrious, caring women today.  They are wonderful role models for this community's young people, and it was an honor to be part of their celebration.

For more information about the Woman's Club of Matawan, you can call (732) 290-3169.

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