The Civitas Club Collection, 1893-1993 (Bulk Dates: 1893-1960). 6 document boxes (2.7 cubic feet).
ArMs 1977.324 and 1993.008
The Civitas Club Collection traces the history of the Civitas Club of Brooklyn, New York. The club was founded in 1893 in Brooklyn Heights as a women’s social group dedicated to “awaken an interest in matters pertaining to municipal welfare, and to foster all movements within the circle of its influence that have for their end the improvement of any phase of civic life.” The Civitas Club and its members were politically and socially active throughout its century of existence. Members were encouraged to present papers, make their voices heard within the community, and gain knowledge of timely issues through the lectures and debates sponsored by the club.
The collection traces these activities, the organization of the club, and the more social ventures of Civitas, illustrating the functions of a women’s club and the development of women’s political voice through the twentieth century. The bulk of the collection concerns the first two decades of the twentieth century and the decade immediately preceding the club’s 75th anniversary (celebrated in 1968). Included in the collection are minutes, meeting and program announcements, financial records, and memorabilia.
Access Points:
- Brooklyn Heights (New York, N.Y.)
- Clubs – New York (State) – New York
- Lectures and lecturing – United States
- Long Island Historical Society (Brooklyn, New York, N.Y.)
- Political Clubs
- Social group work
- United States – Politics and government
- Women – Societies and clubs
- Women in charitable work