SOUTH DEERFIELD — As it celebrates its 125th anniversary, the South Deerfield Women’s Club looks to continue its longstanding tradition of community-building.
“Here we are 125 years later celebrating all the pioneering women who came before us, promoting the ideals established long ago in support of our community,” reads a blurb presented at the club’s Nov. 6 celebration at the Deerfield Inn. “Our club has grown over the years. We’ve had a steady, yet quiet presence in our community supporting our veterans, Scouts, seniors, the town common, educational scholarships, Adopt-a-Family, community meals, Tilton Library and one another.”
“Think of that impact,” said longtime Selectboard member Carolyn Shores Ness, who attended the celebration. “I mean, that’s a huge impact over the years. I feel like that’s what people miss when you have a celebration.”
Along with refreshments and a function room filled with dozens of members, the celebration featured a presentation of the organization’s history. The club began in 1897 with a group of 10 local women. Having been inspired by Jane Cunningham Croly, founder of the national General Federation of Women’s Clubs, the South Deerfield Women’s Club joined the federation on June 25, 1898.
Since then, the club has provided a space for women to make a sociopolitical impact. Today, the club functions “the same as it’s always been,” according to Bonita Conlon, a former club president and secretary who served on last year’s board of directors.
“As always, we have a purpose,” noted Diane Grybko, who serves on the board of directors.
“The last four to five years, I’ve seen a lot more people participating and I think it’s because the issues are more specific to us,” Shores Ness added.
State Rep. Natalie Blais, D–Deerfield, noted at the celebration that Massachusetts is in a “really historic moment” with half a dozen “strong, smart, independent women” running for state office, “who, much like many of the women here in this room, stood up to serve their communities.”
“We have to think outside the normal channels,” Shores Ness said, referencing a volatile political climate. “I think that’s really where women shine because it’s less of an ego issue and more of, ‘Let’s get this done.’”
Reach Julian Mendoza at 413-930-4231 or jmendoza@recorder.com.