The Chautauqua Women’s Club was established in 1889 and was first a place for study and discussion on topics such as social forms and duties, philanthropy, and personal improvement. By 1906, programs and activities had shifted towards education, civic, and social issues including suffrage, temperance, and municipal and law reform. Chautauqua Women’s Club’s history is closely tied to developing national movements of the time including Women’s Suffrage, The Temperance Movement, the League of Nations, the National Service School, The Women’s Relief Corps, the National Federation of Women’s Clubs, and other programs. Anna J. Hardwicke Pennybacker served as president of the Chautauqua Women’s Club from 1917-1938. Today, their mission includes community enrichment, student scholarships, innovative programming and events, and leadership opportunities for women.

Chautauqua Women's Club. n.d. “History of the Chautauqua Women’s Club.” Chautauqua Women’s Club. Accessed April 22, 2024. https://chautauquawomensclub.org/history/.

University at Buffalo Libraries - Digital Collections. n.d. “Chautauqua Women’s Club Collection | New York Heritage.” Nyheritage.org. Accessed April 22, 2024. https://nyheritage.org/index.php/collections/chautauqua-womens-club-collection#:~:text=The%20Chautauqua%20Women.