HISTORY OF THE

WOMEN’S CLUB OF THE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE

The “Women’s Club of the University of Louisville”, formerly called the “University of Louisville Women’s Club”, from 1933 to 2016, is a social organization that was designed to bring together women associated with U of L and to promote university interests.  It was unofficially founded in 1928 when Mrs. S. M. Whitney, wife of the Dean of the Liberal Arts College, invited faculty wives to a monthly luncheon.  It became an official social organization in 1929 and was first known as the “Faculty Wives Club”.  The first president was Mrs. Charles Weston and since then has had 89 dedicated presidents.  Each year, past presidents are recognized at a meeting.  In 1933, female faculty members were invited to join.  This inclusive trend continued when later staff members and ultimately any dues-paying women interested in U of L were welcomed.

In their early history, the Women’s Club was known for their efforts throughout the community.  They volunteered to help flood victims in the 1937 Flood in Louisville.  In World War II, they were heavily involved in the war effort.  When the Cardinal Club was built, they donated the beautiful entrance doors.  They continued to help students financially in 1939 first by a Hilda Threlkeld Loan Fund and now through scholarships.  These are presented annually at a luncheon to which the winners (and guest) are invited.  Club members help students also at Registration.

Their Archive collection held at the university library, contains material from 1932 to the present, which includes a complete detailed history.  The Directories, Memos, scrapbooks, correspondence, minutes, financial records, and publications paint a picture in broad strokes of all the people involved who volunteered their expertise, energy and friendship. 

There were elaborate shows performed, excellent community and faculty speakers heard, exciting educational outings held, countless students helped, beautiful store-sponsored fashions enjoyed, and wonderful social events at hotels, Garden Court, country clubs, restaurants, on campus, or in private homes continue.  Especially during the ‘50s, ’60s and ’70s, some events helped build the scholarship fund with contributions continuing. 

An effort to bring together faculty and staff from the different schools of the university was successful over the years.  Now the community is included in that effort.  We look forward to happy years ahead.

Barbara Cooke, Archivist, Past President, and 54 year member