Three days of gala events celebrated our 50th year golden anniversary! Efforts to increase membership paid off by offering bridge & charm lessons, family night programs, drama by a church guild, Know Your America Week and Federation Follies.
Six notes totaling $7000 were paid with sufficient funds in the treasury to pay another note. The club’s folding doors and 70 card tables were re-enameled. A new water fountain was installed. Thousands of garments were delivered to Community Clothes Closet. A defensive driving course at the club was one of the largest in the city. Tuition was donated to two police officers to complete college law enforcement training. Three oriental rugs and new drapes were added to the tearoom. Black out drapes were hung in the auditorium (ballroom) to permit slide presentations and movies. In 1968 membership increased by 110 members!
In 1970’s a new record room was completed along with a new sidewalk to the new double entry front door. The club amplifier was replaced, 50 new chairs purchased and doors were added to the long kitchen counter. Additions included matching handrails from the stage, a fire hood for kitchen stove and an electric typewriter. In 1976 the building was completely rewired and additional wall outlets and all new ceiling fixtures installed. A year later a sprinkler system was added. In 1981, the pictures of our past presidents were hung in the auditorium in line with a rekindled interest in our heritage.
During the 1980’s and 90’s women returned to the workplace. Membership began to shrink again. New interest in saving the environment erupted. Through the decades, programs reflected changing times with emphasis on ecology, conservation, equality for all citizens, coping with child and spouse abuse, increased crime, rape, drugs, pornography and lowered moral standards expressed in literature, movies and television. National pride in our space triumphs & technology were presented.
Another war broke out. Club members knitted skull caps for under military helmets. St. Petersburg Woman’s Club was designated as a local, state and national historic place… preserved for generations to come!
A copier, computer classes, email, cd player, digital cameras, lock box providing 24 hour club access, light dimmer switches, sound system upgrades with new surround sound speakers, microwave, convection oven – all additions for the new millenium. In 2005, the club began and sponsored a teen division GFWC St. Petersburg Juniorettes. Snell Isle Civic Association and donors provided funds to replace & storm proof the arched windows in the tea room. In 2010 our ladies room was renovated with vacuum flush toilets and faux granite vanity top. Members began sending text messages on cell phones. A professional was hired to design our Internet web page!
The club has staunchly held true to our founding objectives, evidencing social conscience, civic responsibility and educational progress along with cherished ties of friendship. We continue to preserve the past while planning the future!
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