The story of the Marquette Federation of Women’s Clubs (MFWC) is rooted in both local resilience and a national movement for women’s civic engagement. The home that would later become the MFWC clubhouse was originally built in the 1880s and eventually came into the hands of Eliza Bosworth, a local seamstress whose life was marked by hardship and perseverance. Abandoned by her husband and left to raise two children alone, Eliza supported her family through determination and grit, working as a seamstress and boarding house operator. Upon her death in 1925, the house was nearly converted into a gas station—until local women rallied to save it.
The women of Marquette, inspired by the national women’s club movement that began in the late 1800s, saw an opportunity to create a permanent gathering place for their civic and social work. Led by the Alumnae Association of St. Luke’s Hospital, the group of women formed the Marquette Federation of Women’s Clubs and began a campaign to purchase the Bosworth property. With the generous support of local philanthropist George Shiras III, who initially purchased the home to prevent commercial development, the women were able to lease—and later be gifted—the property to serve as their official clubhouse.
Formally established in 1925, the Federation began with 12 clubs and approximately 450 members. Fundraising efforts included everything from teas to theatrical performances, and the clubhouse was remodeled to accommodate meetings and events. In 1926, impressed by their dedication, George Shiras deeded the home to the Federation, and in 1928 contributed additional funds to renovate and expand the building. The clubhouse quickly became a vibrant center for women’s leadership, advocacy, and community life.
Despite the challenges of the Great Depression and shifting social norms, the women of the Federation remained committed to the upkeep and purpose of their clubhouse. Through the decades, the space has served not only as a meeting place for women’s clubs but also as a hub for local arts, education, and community events—from piano recitals and poetry readings to weddings and fundraisers.
Today, the MFWC clubhouse stands as a testament to the vision and determination of Marquette’s women. What began as a grassroots effort to preserve a home and create a shared space has evolved into a lasting legacy of community service, civic engagement, and the power of collective action. The Federation continues to honor the spirit of its founders, celebrating nearly a century of history while continuing to serve the Marquette community.
2026
In 2026, this 140-plus-year-old building will have survived 100 years as a Federated Clubhouse. However, it needs saving and refurbishing once again.
1976
Fifty-year anniversary of the Clubhouse. It was still going strong with fourteen clubs and 454 members.
1950-1951
Member clubs totaled 14 with 525 members. The clubhouse had a fire on May 17, 1950 with minor damage; repairs included: clean drapes, launder white curtains, repair the board under the sink, wash kitchen and east room walls, paint one coat of oil paint in club rooms, and paint under the sink. The total cost was $253.11. Insurance paid $271.35 giving the clubhouse a balance of $18.24.
1936
Mrs. McComb's reign as the Federation's first president ended after 10 years. She was recognized as an impressive and gracious leader, a woman of conviction and determination.
1929
The Clubhouse was ready for occupation.
1928
Mr. Shiras donated $5,000 to the Federated Clubhouse for additional repairs.
1926
Federated Women’s clubs raised $5,000 toward purchase of the property. Mr. Shiras decided to deed the land to the women. Mrs. George McComb (Anna May) became the President of the Women’s Federated Clubhouse.
1925
Homeowner Eliza Bosworth died at age sixty-seven. George Shiras III bought the property to avoid the gas station development. Women’s clubs in the area became Federated with no place to meet. Mr. Shiras met with the women and promised to lease them the land for a year with an option to buy it.
1922
Eliza’s brother, Lewis Bosworth, died. Eliza Bosworth filed in court her petition, praying that the administration of said estate be granted to herself or to some other suitable person.
1906
Eliza Bosworth advertised for boarders. At one time seven people lived in the original house.
1905
Eliza Bosworth moved into the house on 104 W. Ridge St from her home on Fisher St.
1900
Only Eliza now lived on Fisher Street; her brother Lewis had moved away from Marquette.
1880s
Martin Vierling built the house on 104 W. Ridge St. (eventually became the Federated Clubhouse), circa 1882-1884.
1860
The 1860 census showed that Ann, Eliza and Lewis lived in Marquette. The Census did not show a Mr. Bosworth as a resident of Marquette.
1859
Eliza Bosworth’s brother, Lewis Bosworth, was born. Mr. Bosworth abandoned his family. Marquette officially incorporated as a village.
1857
Eliza Bosworth was born in September.
1856
Ann Bosworth joined her husband in Marquette.
1853 or 1854
William Bosworth was relocated from Cleveland to Marquette, Michigan by the Cleveland Iron Company to work in the old forge.
1852
Ann Lewis married William Bosworth in Greenbush Village in New York and soon moved to Cleveland, Ohio.
1832
(Eleanor) Ann Lewis was born in Ireland.