How to Donate

In June of 1926, after a massive and successful effort by the women’s clubs to raise $5,000 toward the purchase of the clubhouse, Mr. George Shiras III deeded the property to them and later gave them another $5,000 for additional repairs. The federation actually occupied the house in 1928-1929.

Since then, many of us and former members can recall what a blessing that house was to doing the business of our clubs. It was safe, private and beautiful. Outside of club meetings, we and the community rented it for all kinds of events; recitals, bridal showers, baby showers, graduation parties, poetry readings, play rehearsals, music recitals, lectures, re-enactments, weddings, memorials, wellness/healing events, socials such as card parties, book clubs, game nights, fashion shows, and more. It has evolved to include both men and women in its membership.

For 100 years, the clubhouse has maintained its federation, although with fewer clubs and hence with fewer total members. All was well until the clubhouse had a major set-back during Covid when community rentals/gatherings/federated clubs were not permitted to meet face-to-face for 2 years. Fundraising was halted. Savings had to replace operational funds and the remaining savings had to be used for a series of infrastructure problems that suddenly occurred.

Now, our goal is to create a fund to help with the costs associated with the Centennial. The Centennial is an opportunity to showcase this clubhouse in a very positive light with programming that would appeal to a wide variety of community groups; we will have a series of 4 musical performances (each with a different genre) starting this August. Other programming and events are in the planning but we always welcome input and participation from our member groups and the community.

This house is Marquette County’s only ‘monument’ to that struggle and success of women across the county to have a place to gather, discuss national and local issues and express their positions.

All donations will go to preparing for the Centennial, which includes offering extra programming and
implementing some maintenance and improvements to the clubhouse.

Please donate now!! We welcome your support of our Centennial to ensure this (designated) historical building and its representation of a national movement will continue to be available for community gatherings and for its federated clubs.

The Women’s Federated Clubhouse thanks you for your generosity!