Our Past Is Present April 16, 2018

April 16, 2018

            This is “Our Past Is Present” from the Geary County Historical Society.

            Some of our readers are members of the Ladies Reading Club in Junction City.  The Ladies Reading Club is the oldest Federated Club in Kansas and one of the first west of the Mississippi.  The current group still meets once a month. They have a light brunch, share information about their history, work on projects, have entertainment and socialize in the same building used since 1875. An article was found in the local newspaper in 1904, which summarized one of the Club’s meetings.  The author of the article wrote that “The Ladies Reading Club met on Thursday.  Mrs. G.H. Trott, President, was the chair.  There were a wide range of topics that ranged from charities to politics. 

            The ladies were favored with a vocal solo by Mrs. Purington-Smith.  Mrs. C.K. Raber, Mrs. Cook and Miss Ida Starcke presented a reading of the “Golden Legend” written by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. 

            Mrs. Elizabeth M. West was admitted as a member and the resignation of Mrs. Kelsall , who had been ill, was accepted with regret.  By a special dispensation Mrs. Green’s name was to remain on the list of active members during her absence in California.

            The committee that was working on the traveling library exhibit was authorized to make all arrangements for the art entertainment.  The committee will meet with Miss Bertha Rockwell on Saturday afternoon.”

            Members of the Ladies Reading Club scholarship local students, have recognized students for their achievements and encourage academic and social  growth in their work since their beginning.  Thank you ladies for all you do for our community from the Geary County Historical Society.