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Woman's Kansas Day Club

Purpose

The mission of the WKDC is to develop loyalty and pride in Kansas for its past present and future achievements; to promote the cultural and scientific development of Kansas; and to cooperate with the Kansas Historical Society in the collection and preservation of Kansas historical records, written articles, and worthwhile projects.

Origins

The Woman's Kansas Day Club originated during a meeting of the Good Government Club in Topeka in January, 1905. The objectives put forth at that time were to instill patriotism in the young, promote good fellowship, and preserve the early history of Kansas.

Mrs. J.D. McFarland of Topeka was the first president. That year, an oil portrait of Sara Robinson, wife of the first Kansas governor, was presented to the Kansas Historical Society. The dues were 25 cents and about 400 women became charter members. The WKDC is also a charter member of the Kansas Council of Women, organized in 1911.

Contributions to KSHS

Every year, the WKDC collects information on that year's research theme, which is chosen by the President. The project director and the regional directors compile the information which is presented to a Historical Society representative at the annual meeting.

They also donate a monetary gift to the historical society from the money left over at the end of the year in the club's treasury.

Past Gifts

The members of the Woman's Kansas Day Club have offered many gifts to the Historical Society over the years:

  • The first automobile built by a Kansas manufacturer
  • Early Kansas parlor with period furnishings
  • Dolls wearing the style and fabric of first lady and first gentlemen inaugural clothing
  • A plate glass display case to display the silver from the Battleship Kansas
  • $8,600 towards the restoration of the Stach school house on the Historical Society grounds.

Getting Involved

Becoming involved in the WKDC is easy. Join, recruit additional members, serve as an officer on a committee or find ways to contribute to the current research project. Organize a membership event or publicize WKDC and its current research project.

Dues

Annual Membership

Annual Membership, effective November 1, 2012

$10

$15

Life Membership

Life Membership, no longer available effective November 1, 2012

$100

Donor/Sustainer Membership effective November 1, 2012

$25 or more annually

Memorials

$50

Contact Information

For more information about the Woman's Kansas Day Club, contact the WKDC president, Linda McCowan, lindamc50@hotmail.com or editor Sherri Barragree, sbarragree@midkan.net.

Please send membership dues to:
Susan Sims
WKDC Treasurer
PO Box 38
Berryton KS 66409