About The Woman's Literary Club

127 Years of Legacy

The Woman’s Literary Club was established in 1898 by a group of women who believed in the power of learning and service and used this knowledge and service to make a difference in people’s lives.  In 1898, the Club’s mission statement was:

“Believing that our happiness as individuals and usefulness as citizens depends upon our intelligence, we women of Holland unite our efforts to further intellectual improvement and to diffuse useful knowledge.”

Little has changed in our mission since 1898. The Woman’s Literary Club was established as a self-education group for women and continues that legacy to this day. 

Throughout the year, members and guests attend programs, events, and outings around our original mission in the areas of cultural literacy. Our events include presentations, speakers, and outings centered around current events, the natural world, history, art, music, and literature.

Joining the General Federation of Women’s Clubs in 1905 added to the Woman’s Literary Club’s mission and broadened the focus of the Club to include public service and community outreach.  We carry on that legacy with initiation of community projects, annual donations to community non-profits, and the annual award of the Kate Garrod Post scholarship, which began in 1916.  

Formed over 127 years ago, the Woman’s Literary Club continues as a group of creative, dedicated, and resilient women who, now as in the past, carry on the tradition of “intellectual improvement” and “useful knowledge” and contribute to our present and future community.